Tuesday, September 22, 2015

Julie Wright Costa masterclass Notes

In case any one missed the masterclass, here are some notes you can look at:

Definition of Audition
·  Gregory Henkel (LA Opera): "auditions are a short job interview in which you have a short amount of time to show how you function in other settings"
·  Auditioning is a game: you win some, you lose some but you get better every time
·  Make sure music is legible for accompanist
·  Don't be late
·  Auditioning is subjective
·  Not a personal affirmation
·  Be yourself: show your personality
·  Do your research: know who you are auditioning for
·  Confirm your audition
·  Have repertoire: put also prepared

How well you perform
·  understanding your text
·  Understanding the situation
·  Know your material
·  Trying new approaches
·  Make a list of what you want to show to potential employers
·  Invite others to do this that you don't really know that well: audition for each other
·  Can do in performance class
1.     I am professional: look and demeanor, punctual, bring all materials, 
2.     I am congenial: smile, friendly, be formal, shake your hands, introduce, "how are you", saying "thank you for hearing me today", if ask for something else, be happy to, use polite language
3.     I am confident: speaking clearly, be appreciative that putting this persons faith in you
4.     I am talented: don't apologize ever, contact auditioner if sick, "I have a great voice and a great technique", positive affirmation, "I am a skilled and committed actor" and "I am prepared"
5.     I am smart: I brought quality materials, good selections, I've done your research, diction, 
6.     I am interesting: great artistic decisions, unique, make personal
·  most important things

Publicity materials
·  always bring hard copy even if put online
Head shots
·  you need to feel comfortable and confident
·  Needs to be commercial enough
·  Showing personality but not too much
·  Color
·  Sticker on back to keep track
·  Avoid wearing something that distracts
·  Look like you
·  Look directly in the camera
·  Change headshot to keep current
·  Find a good photographer

Resume
·  1 page
·  Be accurate: SPELLING
·  Clearly organized
·  Don't lie
·  Resist the urge to write everything: senior year on
·  Good paper quality
·  Opera: don't list age or weight
·  Keep current
·  Don't list roles in preparation
·  Yes to opera scenes
·  Yes upcoming engagements
·  Add education
·  Concert literature (Elijah/scenes)
·  Add training and special skills

Music Binder
·  needs to be clear and very good
·  If use books, make sure they open
·  Have an accompanist binder
·  One for opera/one for musical theatre
·  No page protectors
·  Accompanist can make or break
·  Be anal retentive
·  Take out markings
·  Mark exactly what you want
·  If don't know how to mark, ask a pianist
·  Organized and tabbed

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