How to Prepare for a Singing Competition Performance
- Val Bastien
- Mar 29
- 8 min read
Updated: Apr 5
Entering a singing competition is an exciting opportunity to showcase your talent and hard work, but it also requires thorough preparation to ensure you deliver your best performance. Whether you are competing on a local or national stage, the following guide will provide comprehensive tips to help you succeed.
1. Choose the Right Song for Your Singing Competition
The song you select is one of the most critical decisions in your competition journey. Here’s how to make the best choice:
Match Your Strengths: Choose a song that highlights your vocal range, tone, and style. Avoid songs that stretch your abilities too far beyond your comfort zone.
Connect Emotionally: Select a piece that resonates with you emotionally. If you feel the song deeply, your performance will be more authentic and compelling.
Consider the Audience and Judges: Think about the preferences of your audience and competition judges. Popular or universally appreciated songs might leave a stronger impression, but don’t shy away from lesser-known pieces if they showcase your uniqueness.
Keep It Fresh: Avoid songs that are overly performed in competitions unless you can bring a fresh and original interpretation.
Choosing a song is not just about the notes and melody; it’s also about storytelling. Your ability to connect with the lyrics and convey that story to your audience can set you apart from other competitors. Spend time understanding the meaning behind the song and explore how your unique perspective can add depth to your performance.
Take into account the duration of the song as well. Competitions often have time constraints, so select a piece that fits within the allotted time frame without sacrificing its impact. If your chosen song is too long, consider editing it to focus on its strongest parts.
2. Perfect Your Vocal Technique
A polished vocal technique is the backbone of a winning performance. Here’s how to refine your skills:
Warm Up Daily: Develop a warm-up routine to prepare your vocal cords and enhance flexibility. Start with gentle scales, lip trills, and humming exercises.
Practice Breath Control: Proper breathing is essential for maintaining vocal stability and power. Practice diaphragmatic breathing and control exercises, such as sustaining long notes.
Work on Pitch Accuracy: Use tools like a keyboard or pitch app to ensure you hit every note precisely. If pitch issues persist, work with a vocal coach for guidance.
Master Dynamics: Dynamics add emotion and depth to your performance. Practice transitioning smoothly between soft and loud passages, and experiment with crescendos and decrescendos.
In addition to these techniques, pay attention to articulation and diction. Clear pronunciation ensures your audience understands the lyrics, enhancing their emotional connection to your performance. Experiment with vowel modification techniques to maintain vocal clarity, even in challenging sections of your song.
Furthermore, explore different vocal styles and techniques that suit the genre of your chosen song. If you’re performing a jazz number, for instance, focus on improvisation and unique phrasing. For classical pieces, pay close attention to tonal purity and phrasing. Tailoring your technique to the genre will make your performance more authentic and engaging.
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3. Develop Stage Presence
Captivating stage presence can elevate your performance from good to unforgettable. Here’s how to shine:
Practice Performing: Rehearse in front of a mirror, record yourself, or perform for friends and family to refine your stage presence.
Engage with Your Audience: Make eye contact, use expressive gestures, and connect with your audience. Avoid staring at the floor or looking overly stiff.
Use Body Language: Use natural and purposeful movements to convey the emotion of the song. Avoid over-the-top gestures that may appear forced.
Dress Appropriately: Wear an outfit that matches the theme of your performance and makes you feel confident. Ensure it’s comfortable and doesn’t restrict your movement.
Confidence is key to stage presence. Practice projecting self-assurance, even if you feel nervous inside. Engage in activities like improvisational acting or public speaking to strengthen your ability to command attention and handle unexpected situations on stage.
Additionally, consider incorporating subtle theatrical elements into your performance. These could include changes in posture to reflect shifts in the song’s mood or using the stage space to create a dynamic visual impact. Balancing movement and stillness at key moments can add layers of meaning to your performance.
4. Prepare Mentally and Emotionally to Sing at a Competition
Mental and emotional preparation is just as crucial as physical preparation. Here’s how to stay centered:
Set Realistic Goals: Focus on giving your best performance rather than solely aiming for first place. This mindset reduces pressure and boosts enjoyment.
Visualize Success: Use visualization techniques to picture yourself performing confidently and receiving positive feedback. This builds self-assurance.
Manage Anxiety: Practice deep breathing, meditation, or mindfulness to calm nerves. Remember, a little adrenaline can enhance your performance if managed well.
Build Confidence: Remind yourself of your hard work and talent. Positive affirmations and supportive friends can help you stay motivated.
Building emotional resilience is also vital. Competitions can be unpredictable, and staying adaptable ensures you handle surprises gracefully. Practice mindfulness to stay present and focused, even when things don’t go as planned.
Consider working with a mental performance coach or therapist if you find nerves overwhelming. These professionals can equip you with tailored strategies to overcome stage fright and build emotional strength. Journaling about your preparation journey can also help you process emotions and reflect on your growth.
5. Practice, Practice, Practice
Consistent and focused practice is non-negotiable. Here are some tips:
Create a Schedule: Dedicate specific times for vocal exercises, song practice, and performance rehearsals. Consistency is key.
Break Down the Song: Practice challenging sections separately before piecing them together. This prevents frustration and ensures thorough preparation.
Simulate the Performance Environment: Rehearse in a setting similar to the competition venue. If possible, use a microphone and sound system to adapt to the acoustics.
Record Yourself: Regularly record your practices to identify areas for improvement. Listening objectively helps refine your technique and delivery.
Incorporate feedback from trusted mentors or peers during your practice sessions. Constructive criticism can reveal blind spots and help you make meaningful improvements. Aim to rehearse your song so thoroughly that you can perform it confidently under any circumstance.
Diversify your practice methods to keep things engaging. For example, try practicing in front of a small audience or collaborating with another performer. These variations can simulate the pressures of competition day and make your practice sessions more effective.
6. Seek Professional Guidance
A vocal coach or music teacher can provide invaluable feedback and training:
Refine Your Skills: A vocal coach can help identify and address technical issues, such as pitch problems or breath control.
Receive Constructive Criticism: Professional feedback allows you to improve areas you may overlook.
Learn Performance Techniques: A singing teacher can teach you how to engage your audience, use the stage effectively, and polish your overall presentation.
Rehearse with Accompaniment: If your song includes a backing track or live accompaniment, practice with it under the guidance of your singing teacher.
Group workshops or masterclasses are another valuable resource. Interacting with other singers and learning from their experiences can provide fresh perspectives and ideas for improving your own performance.
Seek out opportunities to perform in front of an audience, even in informal settings like open mic nights or community events. These experiences can help you build confidence, receive feedback, and develop a deeper understanding of audience dynamics.
7. Take Care of Your Voice
Your voice is your instrument, so keeping it healthy is paramount:
Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your vocal cords lubricated. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can dry out your throat.
Avoid Strain: Rest your voice, especially in the days leading up to the competition. Avoid shouting or whispering, as both can strain your vocal cords.
Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Get enough sleep, eat a balanced diet, and exercise regularly to support overall well-being and vocal health.
Manage Allergies and Illnesses: If you’re prone to allergies or colds, take preventive measures, such as using a humidifier or consulting a doctor.
In addition to these measures, consider vocal therapy or physiotherapy if you experience chronic tension or fatigue in your voice. These therapies can help you optimize your vocal health and endurance.
If you have specific vocal challenges, such as recovering from an injury or adapting to a new technique, seek guidance from a specialist. Voice care products, like throat sprays or steam inhalers, can also support your vocal hygiene routine.
8. Understand the Rules and Expectations of the Singing Competition
Each competition has specific guidelines. Familiarize yourself with them to avoid disqualification:
Read the Rules Carefully: Understand the competition’s requirements for song length, genre, attire, and accompaniment.
Meet Deadlines: Submit your application, music sheets, and other materials on time.
Be Punctual: Arrive early on the competition day to familiarize yourself with the venue and relax before performing.
Respect Fellow Competitors: Show kindness and professionalism to other participants and staff.
Knowing the rules also means being prepared for any additional expectations, such as on-stage behaviour or audience interaction. These subtle details can influence the judges’ perception of your performance.
Research past editions of the competition to understand what has impressed judges in the past. This can provide insights into the level of polish and creativity expected, helping you fine-tune your preparation.
9. Plan for the Competition Day
Proper preparation on the big day ensures a smooth experience:
Pack Essentials: Bring water, snacks, your sheet music, and a backup copy of your track if using a recording.
Warm Up Your Voice: Perform your usual vocal warm-up routine to prepare your voice.
Dress Comfortably and Confidently: Choose an outfit that reflects your style and fits well.
Arrive Early: Use the extra time to check the stage, sound system, and acoustics.
Preparation also includes mental rehearsal. Spend a few quiet moments envisioning a successful performance. This mental exercise can help you stay calm and focused when it’s your turn to perform.
Create a checklist for competition day to ensure you don’t forget any essentials. Include items like a small notebook for last-minute notes, a compact mirror, and any specific equipment you might need.
10. Reflect and Learn
Regardless of the outcome, every competition is a learning experience:
Seek Feedback: If possible, ask the judges or mentors for constructive criticism to improve.
Celebrate Your Achievements: Acknowledge your hard work and courage in competing.
Set New Goals: Use the experience to set future singing and performance goals.
Take time to review recordings of your performance if available. Analyze your strengths and areas for growth, and use this insight to refine your skills for future competitions.
Consider writing a journal entry about your competition experience. Reflecting on what went well and what could improve will help solidify your learning and keep you motivated for the next challenge.
Preparing for a singing competition takes dedication, discipline, and a positive mindset. By following these tips, you can step onto the stage with confidence, knowing you’ve done everything possible to deliver a memorable performance.
If you’re ready to take your singing to the next level, I’d love to help you reach your goals and unlock your full potential. Whether you’re preparing for a competition, working on your vocal technique, or refining your performance, personalized coaching can make all the difference.
I invite you to sign up for a free consultation session where we can discuss your specific needs and goals. This is a no-obligation opportunity to explore how I can support you in improving your voice and performance. Together, we’ll create a plan that aligns with your aspirations, whether it’s enhancing vocal technique, building confidence, or preparing for a big stage.
Don’t wait – take the first step toward becoming the singer you’ve always wanted to be. Sign up for your free consultation today, and let's get started on your vocal journey!
Good luck!
Val Bastien, OCT
Vocal Coach, Toronto