Voice (pop) audition guide

Components

Song choices must be memorized (no lyrics or sheet music).  Candidates must have musical accompaniment, either live or on CD.  Vanier College does not provide an accompanist.  

1) Scales: major and harmonic minor

2) Two classic pop songs of contrasting styles from the following: 

• One Beatles song (ex. Imagine, Yesterday, I want to hold your hand)
• One Classic pop song of your choice

You greatly improve your chances of acceptance when you prepare your audition requirements with the guidance of a qualified Voice teacher.  

How to choose a classic pop song for your audition

We suggest that your choice be a song either:

• first recorded in the 1990s (or before), or
• a song that has been “covered” by more than 2 artists.  This means that after it was first recorded, other professional pop singers thought it was such a great song they recorded their own versions.

For the Beatles song, something that contrasts with your classic pop song is recommended. If you choose a ballad, choose a more up-beat song for the other to show your range of ability in crafting your songs. Remember that your songs must be accompanied.  You can accompany yourself, ask a friend or accompanist to play with you or sing to a recording that does not include a vocal track.  A CD player and minijack cable to play your music will be available in your audition room.