HOW TO SUCCEED IN MUSIC COMPETITONS

I have amusingly been watching the American Idol competition.I am from a Knowledgeable background ,as a vocal coach and a professional entertainer.I first and foremost love what I do more then relationships (the music and entertainment field attests to that statement).You notice I combined those industries .Through my 30yrs in this business.I have paid"my dues"an old less frequently used ideology in this day of Instant hype and$$$$,Pro tools to the"Want to be"s and the Two major Labels left,Sony,BMG have made it easier to get a chance at a career start but also has made it harder to stay on top or to stay period.It is ALL about profit and loss.

As a Teacher in music ,voice and performance,have had 5 students go on to become known in their entertainment fields.My credentials are what they are.Common sense will prove this .First I will diagram what competitions are: 1.Perfecting your craft 2.exposure to criticism 3.humbling 4.rewarding 5. door opening (advancement to contacts in your field). Now that you know what their generally for lets look at Preparation : Ask yourself why should I compete? what Are you going to get out of this?, whats is it that I want and what will I sacrifice to achieve it?Do I have the technical tools to achieve my goals?Once those Questions have been answered,then study rehearse for 4-6 hrs. a day for 3months giving all thats inside of you.Video tape each session. Critique:1.Delivery a.pitch b.range c.flow (meter, dynamics)2.Character of performance (does it feel your"own")3.Dress the part ,act as a professional.4.Do you bring the audience into your performance ?5.Do you own the stage?Being a good performer is being natural, knowing who and why you do what you do.The Last thing to Keep in the front of everything is "THIS IS A JOB!!!!!!!!!! .YOU ARE ASKING FOR A JOB!!!!!!!!!! .pure and simple!So in saying that,it is a job interview!BE NICE ,PROFESSIONAL ,LISTEN,LEARN and above ALL ,BE HUMBLE!!!!!! You may only get one chance at your dream! Don't be "I'm the know it all " or I'm not selling out My "Artistry" Give respect! that will bring you far in this world that is very picky and unforgiving.Best of luck to all !