DHS Department of Choral Arts
The Duluth choirs have a long tradition of excellence in the state of Georgia and abroad. They have performed throughout metropolitan Atlanta, New York City, New York; Nashville, Tennessee; Disney World, Orlando, Florida; and The Grand Bahama Islands as well as six international concert tours throughout Europe. Each year the choirs participate in the Georgia Music Educator’s Association State Large Group Performance Evaluation where they consistently receive the top ratings of “Superior”. Duluth is also very well represented in the GMEA All-State Choirs, Honors Choruses and GHSA Music Literary events yearly.
   

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References

Students that need a reference from Mr. Smith for college, jobs etc... should present the following material to Mr. Smith at least two weeks in advance or a reference may not be granted.

  • Transcript
  • Resume
  • Self Addressed Stamped Envelope to the institution applying for

Audition Tips For Singers

(This is a general tips sheet. Most of the tips below apply equally to all-state auditions, class solo auditions, choir placement and/or college auditions) Remember, the ideal singer is one who takes initiative and works hard, is not intimidated by challenges, has good social skills and is a contributor, not just a bystander. I encourage you to audition for everything, be discouraged by nothing and always keep a positive attitude and work ethic. Do these things and you will go far in music and in life!!

  • Know who your audience is and what they are looking for
  • Do not take auditioning personally
  • Make the audition goal simple (to do your best)
  • Choose appropriate literature (ask question if unsure!)
  • Prepare! Prepare! Prepare!
  • Have a good attitude
  • An audition is not a trial, but a winning demonstration of talent and skills
  • No one will ever accuse you of being too musical!
  • A good soloist is not always a good chorister and vise-versa
  • Maintain perspective and don’t allow a negative spiral. Some people enjoy having something to gripe about. Don’t be one of those people
  • It is always better to sing an easy song well than a difficult song poorly
  • Do not apologize or give excuses for what you may feel is a poor performance. The adjudicators have heard ALL the excuses before
  • Do not end an audition with “How did I do?” or “Did I make it?”
  • Give yourself a pat on the back for being brave enough to audition. Singing a solo requires courage and you should be proud of yourself
  • Remember, the audition process is good for you whether you got the part or not
  • Dress appropriately for an audition
  • Smile and make eye contact with the adjudicators before the audition
  • Be courteous and professional. Keep going even if you make a mistake
  • Choose a piece that showcases your strengths and make that your opening number
  • Prepare expressive parts as carefully as technical parts.
  • From MENC website on college auditions: “We are looking for a strong sense of musicality, tone, and performance ability. Another component is the manner in which students conduct themselves during the audition. We are looking for someone with a positive attitude, leadership qualities, and willingness to be a part of a larger team. Technique, intonation, tone, and range are all important, but faculty also want to recruit students who are prepared, enthusiastic, and interested in music. If students are seriously prepared for their auditions, the audition committee will recognize this immediately in their performance and attitude.”

 

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Greg S. Smith, Director of Choral Activities | Jason Lane, Principal, Duluth High School, 3737 Brock Rd. Duluth, GA 30096, (770)232-3354
Greg_smith@gwinnett.k12.ga.us