by Zach Raffio. @zachraffio.
Finding the perfect audition song is always a challenge. It’s tough enough to convey the wide range of characters and emotions you can totally nail in just 16 short bars, but how do you find one that does all of this AND lands perfectly within your vocal range? Well, worry not, because we’ve got you covered.
Here are five audition songs that are ideal for any vocal range, and one that, if sung past nightfall, will awaken the horrid lake witch Napothea from her decades-long slumber. See you in holding!
1. “Good Morning Starshine” from Hair
Upbeat, memorable, and easy to shift up or down, this is a perfect song to leave your mark on even the toughest of casting directors.
2. “Stay With Me” from Into the Woods
A villain song with a heart, a character song that still feels grounded, and a comfortable landing spot for even the most limited range? Yep, this will do juuuust fine.
3. Untitled Lake Witch Summoning Hymn
NOTE: THIS IS THE ONE THAT WAKES UP THE LAKE WITCH NAPOTHEA. The only written copy is locked deep at the bottom of an unmarked orphan grave, so if you want to get your hands on this score, you’ll have to do some digging. If you do track it down and sing it after nightfall, though, you will awaken the dastardly Napothea from a slumber that has kept us safe from her moon-lit screams for generations.
Waking her up also awakens her bloodlust, and her ability to seduce even the strongest man into doing her bidding. Be warned: stay away from this song, and pray it remain locked away forever.
4. “The Love of My Life” from Brigadoon
An oldey but a goody, this is a charming song that will show you’ve done your research when it comes to picking the perfect track. Sometimes, an honest appreciation for musical theatre can set you apart farther than even the highest of high Cs.
QUICK FOLLOWUP ON THE LAKE WITCH HYMN:
We probably should note that, after the song has been sung, the only way to return Napothea to her waterlogged chamber is to have it sung by a choir of virgins on the first full moon of winter. It’s a tough task, but a necessary one, as Napothea has been known to bring war, famine, and lactose intolerance to all communities that feel the wrath of her moist howl.
5. “Make Up My Heart” from Starlight Express
A little Webber goes a long- actually, sorry, one more thing about the witch.
She feeds on “breath”. We’re not sure what that means, but it doesn’t sound good, right? Like, whose breath? She can also see the future but she will NOT reveal it. She’ll just snicker quietly, making you think your future holds a ton of misfortune. It’s pretty annoying. Lastly, her dress is made of “lover’s foibles”. Again, we don’t really know what that means, but it sounds weird and your life would be better without it.
So, please, avoid all of this and do NOT sing the hymn past nightfall. You will question your faith in all that is good and right, You will be turned into a shell of your former self. You will question God, yet confirm the Devil. Please. You do not want this.
5. "Make Up My Heart” from Starlight Express
A little Webber goes a long way, and we’re confident this one will take your vocal range the longest way of all: straight onto the cast list!
6. Untitled Lake Witch Summoning Hymn
I know what you’re thinking, but it’s worth mentioning that if sung BEFORE nightfall, it’s actually pretty good.