29 April 2004

"Australian Idol 2" Audition Tips:
Part 3

"Australian Idol 2" audition tips...Part 1

"Australian Idol 2" audition tips...Part 2

Australian Idol audition UPDATE...Part 4

Following the popularity of the last "Australian Idol" series, many people are deciding to warm up the vocal folds and have a go at auditioning for Australian Idol 2.

Continuing our tips to best prepare yourself for the Idol audition(s):

The call-back process and how it works

Approximately 50 people at a time are brought in from a line in the street (there are usually 1000's in the queue), after up to a 4 hour wait, and taken into a large room.

These 50 are then allocated into groups of approximately 5 and taken into separate audition rooms, with two judges (not the famous ones you see on TV) listening to each person.

In this first round, the good singers from the group of 50 are chosen as serious contenders. The not-so-good ones are specifically chosen (or set up) merely to amuse the audience for the purpose of ratings.

The judges in the first round are not "Dicko", Marcia or Mark (or even Paula or Simon), but instead the producers who are choosing the good and the bad for the next step, the TV.

Don't set yourself up to be put down and end up on the Idol DVD of bloopers

As embarrassing and humiliating as it is, Idol will nevertheless feature the worst auditionees for the purpose of ratings, promos or ad breaks. Don't set yourself up to provide amusement on national TV!

Your ear listening to your own voice can be very deceptive and can lead you to believe that you sound better than you really are.

If you are unsure whether you will cut it or be taken seriously, sing the audition song to a professional singing teacher or singer for comment and feedback. Alternatively ask a trusted friend. Ask someone who you think will be honest with you and has some idea of what a good voice sounds like.

Oversell yourself

If you get a second call-back you may be asked to fill in a form outlining, amongst other things, your past singing experience.

The producers won't know about you, your personality or experiences if you don't tell them. And sell it!

Don't hold back with what you say; think of everything that may be interesting.

Show personality

Comments like "I feel more comfortable being myself" will not get you far if you naturally come across as reticent, shy or even disinterested. This isn't normally the intention of the individual, however it can be portrayed this way, especially with the ruthless editing process that the audition tapes go through.

Always smile, look happy (whether you are or not) and answer questions with confidence and personality.

Check out the rest...

"Australian Idol 2" audition tips...Part 1

"Australian Idol 2" audition tips...Part 2

26 April 2004

"Australian Idol 2" Audition Tips:
Part 2: Choosing An Appropriate Song For Your Audition

"Australian Idol 2" audition tips...Part 1

"Australian Idol 2" audition tips...Part 3

Following the popularity of the last "Australian Idol" series, many people are deciding to warm up the vocal folds and have a go at auditioning for Australian Idol 2.

Continuing our tips to best prepare yourself for the Idol audition(s):

Choose an appropriate song

This was THE biggest issue constantly raised by the Idol judges throughout the last series.

If you choose a song that is too hard for you or one that doesn't show off your voice enough, you could make or break your chances of getting a second call back.

Tips when choosing songs, especially for auditions:

Check out the rest...

"Australian Idol 2" audition tips...Part 1

"Australian Idol 2" audition tips...Part 3

24 April 2004

"Australian Idol 2" audition tips: Part 1

"Australian Idol 2" audition tips...Part 2

"Australian Idol 2" audition tips...Part 3

Following the popularity of the last "Australian Idol" series, many people are deciding to warm up the vocal folds and have a go at auditioning for Australian Idol 2.

At our Studio alone, a few dozen people will audition for the chance to become Australia's most popular singer.

Some important tips to best prepare yourself for the audition(s):

• read the entry form thoroughly so you know what is expected of you and if you are eligible to participate. The organisers are clear on what they want and have worded the entry form carefully. Here is the entry form for you to download:

• get there early. The form says auditions start at 8.30am however this is way too late if you want to avoid waiting in the line for 3 - 4 hours. You may even miss out if they reach their quota of auditionees. Plan to arrive no later that 6.30am.
• keep warm. Auditions are being held in autumn/winter in most States. Wear warm clothing including a hat and gloves. TAKE A SCARF to keep your throat warm: it will mean less effort in warming up your voice and body when it is your time to sing. You will probably be queuing outside until your audition so, when you do get into the warm environment, do some stretches to wake and warm-up your body
• do vocal warm-ups. Your voice should always be warmed-up before you sing. Coming from a cold environment and having to suddenly sing for 30 seconds is too much to ask of your voice. Do vocal warm-up exercises before you arrive at the venue, and continue to keep the voice warm-ups going until the audition. See warm up exercise article
• present yourself well. Remember that the show is designed to get ratings first and foremost, therefore visuals are important and you need to look sensational. Wear clothes that are flattering and look great on you. Do the best possible job with your hair and, girls, wear make-up to highlight your great features. It may mean you need to wake up real early (and have an early night or two beforehand)...welcome to the industry!

Check out the rest...

"Australian Idol 2" audition tips...Part 2

"Australian Idol 2" audition tips...Part 3

15 April 2004

SOUNDS LIKE TECHNO

From its origins in Detroit to the dance floors of Australia

A four part multimedia documentary at ABC Online looks at the birth of techno music, it's innovators and influences.

Go there...

13 April 2004

The Business of Singing: A Website

A website is a critical element in the 'total mix' of any business in today's market. In particular, a private singing studio can benefit enormously from the tremendous impact that a well-built, constantly updated, professional website can offer.

Why have a website?

Acts as an online brochure

Many people prefer to read through (or better: interact with) a website at their own leisure as opposed to talking to someone on the phone.

You will save time talking to people (on the phone) explaining the answers to the same questions over and over again.

A website can generate far more interest in your business than a brochure or flyer ever could.

Establishes perceptions

A website can portray your 'image' and the perception you wish to portray to the customer. Photos, layout, text and artwork all contribute to prospective clients taking the next important step: calling you to book a lesson.

To many people, the quality of your website is associated with the quality of your business: high-quality website = high-quality operator.

Attracts customers

There is a growing market of people who use the internet as a way to source what they need. A website will attract customers you wouldn't otherwise get.

Heightens profile

A website is a means to heighten your profile. By publishing articles, stories and weblogs or 'blogs' people can get a deeper understanding of who you are and how you operate. It can increase your profile in your industry and at the same time attract customers.

Sells merchandise

Your website can sell merchandise online while you go about your daily life. A popular trend today is to sell articles in 'PDF' format which are available for immediate download to the 'now' generation.

Selling Your Website

All businesses should have their website address prominently advertised on all promotional material, including business cards, yellow pages ads, display ads, editorials, flyers, brochures, letterheads and on the signature of all emails.

To be effective, it is crucial to keep your website fresh, updated and informative. If you do not have the time, inclination or skills to create your website, it may be best to employ a website designer who will give you professional results. Your teenage nephew, who may be cheap but not necessarily quick, may not be the best choice if he isn't going to give the site the polished professionalism that will portray you and your Studio in your best light in today's competitive market.

Good luck with your website

6 April 2004

Congratulations...

We congratulate LHSS student, 10 year old Yen Yen Stender on winning the Youth section of the recent Search for a Singer series held yesterday.

Paulini signs Sony record deal
By PETER HOLMES, April 4, 2004, Sunday Telegraph:

Paulini Curuenavuli has signed a four-album deal with Sony Music.

The Fijian-born, Bankstown-based singer became a national favourite after being criticised by Idol judges Ian "Dicko" Dickson and Mark Holden as too heavy to wear the tight-fitting Charlie Brown dress.

"I think they did me a favour, because people remember me via that dress," Curuenavuli said.

Idol's official label, BMG, had first option on signing Curuenavuli, but chose instead to ink deals with winner Guy Sebastian, runner-up Shannon Noll, drag queen Courtney Act and Robert "Millsy" Mills.

"After I came out of Idol, I didn't receive phone calls from anyone,"

Curuenavuli said.

"I told myself to be determined and patient and, after the national Idol tour, the record companies started ringing me with offers."

While Sony Music CEO Denis Handlin, head of Artist & Repertoire Mike Taylor and Curuenavuli's manager, David Caplice, celebrated with champagne, the teetotal Paulini nursed an orange juice.

"I just think it's better for me and my voice if I don't drink," she said.

Curuenavuli is hoping to release a funk, soul and R & B album before the the end of the year, and is currently sifting through dozens of potential tracks.

2 April 2004

Good luck to...

LHSS teachers Katie Packer and Lisa Simonetti who will be singing at the Young Achievers Awards this Saturday night at the Adelaide Hilton Ballroom.

They will be singing 3 inspirational songs in keeping with the theme of achievement including When You Believe  from the movie "Prince of Egypt" recorded by Mariah Carey & Whitney Houston, which they will do as a duet.

Katie will sing Delta Goodrem's version of Born To Try and Lisa will sing Kelly Clarkson's version of A Moment Like This.

Katie Packer will also open the Central Districts League match on 17 April 2004 with the Australian National Anthem.

LHSS student Ricky Mulyono blitzed the heat to make it into the semi-finals of "Search for a Singer" to be held this weekend.

Voice transformation in female adolescents

Part 2

Voice Transformation in female adolescents Part 1

Physical changes

Thurman and Welch state in their book, apart from the physical changes involved with the growth of a female adolescent, there are pubertal growth changes related to vocal capabilities such as:

1. a lengthening and increased circumference of the chest wall and lungs, providing greater breathing capacity;
2. a "descent" of the larynx (voice box) in relation to the spine, thus increasing the length of the vocal tract (which effects the quality of the sound); and
3. a development of oral-facial structures that are related to vocal resonance.

Menstruation

Though no conclusive research exists that directly links female voice change to menstruation (menarche), it has been suggested that the start of menstruation and a lowering of average speaking voice (fundamental frequency (ASFF)) in female voices are simultaneous. It is also suggested that the menstrual cycle may produce transient changes in the coordination of voice during singing.

In a study taken of premenarchal girls and postmenarcheal girls, the postmenarchal girls showed tendencies towards lower ASFF, lower physiological vocal pitch range measure, and increased breathiness.

Auditory and kinesthetic signs

The following auditory and kinesthetic signs of female adolescent voice change are:

1. increased breathy, husky, or hoarse voice qualities in both speaking and singing
2. occasional voice 'cracking' in speech;
3. lowering of mean speaking fundamental frequency;
4. increased pitch inaccuracy during singing
5. decrease and inconsistent pitch range capabilities in singing;
6. increased incidence of abrupt register transitions or 'breaks' in singing;
7. generally uncomfortable singing or effortful phonation

Conclusion

Several medical researchers have noted several physical alterations and changes that can occur during and prior to menstration. These characteristics closely parallel those exhibited by postmenarcheal female voices.

With the exception of menopause and pregnancy, at not other time in a woman's life is the hormone balance in so a state of fluctuation as in adolescence.

With an understanding of the female changing voice, the teacher and singer can except changes to the voice of the adolescent female such as vocal quality and pitch changes and expectations change accordingly.

1. Thurman, Leon., Welch, Graham, eds. (2000). Bodymind & Voice: Foundations of Voice Education, Minnesota, USA: The VoiceCare Network, pg 741-742.

check out "Voice transformation in female adolescents - part 1"

26 March 2004

Voice transformation in female adolescents

Part 1

Voice Transformation in female adolescents Part 2

There has been a lot of research on the transformation of the adolescent male voice. Comparatively, there has been very little research about the changing female voice.

"One possible reason for this lack of information may be that the voice transformation process is not nearly as noticeable in females as it is in males. The speculative assumption was that female voices do not really "change", but instead merely "develop" during the adolescent period.

" Evidence for this assumption is the absence of a noticeable change in pitch range, as is the with boys with the low pitch change, and the breathy, thin quality of many adolescent girls."1

The changes in a male and female voice are different. In Part 2 of this series, we will look at the actual changes the female voice goes through.

Keep watching this space!

1. Thurman, Leon., Welch, Graham, eds. (2000). Bodymind & Voice: Foundations of Voice Education, Minnesota, USA: The VoiceCare Network, pg 739.

check out "Voice transformation in female adolescents - part 2"