Choosing A Song

• Choose a song you are comfortable with and know well
• Pick something within your capabilities – don’t try to over impress
• Make sure the song is appropriate for the occasion

Get The Essentials

• Song lyrics
• Sheet music (for the accompanist)
• Backing track (if needed)
• Check whether you will be singing with a PA system or without
• Will you learn the lyrics or have music on a stand?
• Take a bottle of water with you

Rehearsing The Song

Always allow yourself a good amount of rehearsal time – preparation is the key to a good performance!

• Listen to recordings of the song and work out an arrangement that suits you
• Hum the melody of the song before adding words – this helps to secure your tuning and knowledge of the melody. Words can get in the way at this stage!
• Make sure you know your entries (particularly if you are using a backing track)
• Try to memorise the words

Before The Performance

• Choose a comfortable outfit
• Imagine yourself performing the song – with a good outcome
• Find out where you are in the programme
• Arrive in plenty of time
• Make sure you warm up properly!

© 2008 Helen Sanderson-White, Little Eliza Music (copying is prohibited)