Tips for Competing in Singing Competitions

How you present yourself in front of an audience is important. Below are a few helpful suggestions. You may also need to explore options with props and supplies for cabaret, theatre, or comedy songs if you are interested in that career field.

• Sing a song that is popular or well-known but not over-used in competitions.
• Never perform a song that you don't know well; if you have to follow the words from the screen or sheet music you are not rehearsed enough to perform the song.
• Don't stand still; move and show some emotion, but be careful not to sign language the whole song.
• Don’t over-sing the song.
• If you wish to sing a new song you normally don’t sing, rehearse as much as possible and perform it before singing it at your major competition to test your abilities and determine the audiences’ reaction.
• Pick a song that suits your voice; there’s no sense in performing an R&B song if you sound like an opera singer.
• Get your friends to come to your performance and cheer when you've finished.
• Remember, it is not necessary to sound like the original singer; it's your vocal ability that is measured.
• If you are entering a sound-alike competition you will need to work on exact pitch, phrasing, gestures and costuming to fulfil your performance requirements.
• Your dress sense can be used to your advantage; dress to the character and venue needs.
• If the song permits involve the audience throughout your performance and get feedback from them. Try to create an atmosphere.
• Don't you or your friends try to sweet-talk the judges; it is unethical and usually damages your chances of winning the competition.
• Perform sober.
• If performing a comical song, use props such as a wig or cane, and dance. Fooling around or miming can help to leave a lasting impression on both the audience and judges.