Cutting a Song to 16 bars

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Cutting a Song to 16 bars

Posted: 11/4/04 at 12:27pm

Who can you give a song to or talk to if your having trouble getting a song into 16 bars for an audition. Im doing Once Before I Go, from the Boy From oz, and I def. wanna show off the ending but Im having trouble cutting the end into 16 bars because there really isn't a suitable place to begin or am I just not seeing it?

Thanks all.

re: Cutting a Song to 16 bars

Posted: 11/4/04 at 12:38pm

Ok I totally know the feeling, it is impossible to cut the music you can get down to 16 bars and still show off the best parts. I go to performing arts camp and this summer they bought the most AMAZING book ever it is

"the 16 bar theatre audition"

it comes in all vocal parts alto, tenor, soprano, and bass. It is perfect! Definately check it out! They have popular songs, random songs and only 16 bars and they are generally teh best! I don't think they have boy from oz but...check it out anyway maybe for next time! Hope your audition goes well!

When someone blunders, we say that he makes a misstep. Is it then not clear that all the ills of mankind, all the tragic misfortunes that fill our history books, all the political blunders, all the failures of the great leaders have arisen merely from a lack of skill in dancing. - Moliere

re: Cutting a Song to 16 bars

Posted: 11/4/04 at 2:26pm

Oddly enough, that was the book I was going to suggest. I just got mine (I'm auditioning for Interlochen Arts Camp as a musical theater) and it is life saving =) I got the Mezzo Soprano (Belter) one, and it's got a ton of songs in it that are really helpful.

And I know when I brought it in, my voice teacher placed an order for all the different voice parts. She loved it =)

Good Luck =D

re: Cutting a Song to 16 bars

Posted: 11/4/04 at 2:59pm

There is the rare song that is only 16 bars long.

Who Cares? from Of Thee I Sing by the Gershwins is a great example.

"If my life weren't funny, it would just be true. And that would be unacceptable." --Carrie Fisher

re: Cutting a Song to 16 bars

Posted: 11/4/04 at 3:01pm

Starting from the ending "You are the light, that shines on me/you alway were and you will always be..." until the end is 16 measures. I have the score and that is 17 with the big long note at the end.

And if she'll say, "My darling, I'm yours!" I'll throw away my striped tie and my best pressed tweed, all I really need is the girl...

re: Cutting a Song to 16 bars

Posted: 11/4/04 at 3:13pm

I actually saw those books yesterday and was tempted, but what if the casting people really like your 16 bars and ask you to continue on, or to sing the whole song?

Have I ever shown you my Shattered Dreams box? It's in my Disappointment Closet. - Marge Simpson

re: Cutting a Song to 16 bars

Posted: 11/4/04 at 3:59pm

For Equity auditions-- they really mean 16 bars. Most others, have 16 that show you off, but be prepared to keep going.

And if she'll say, "My darling, I'm yours!" I'll throw away my striped tie and my best pressed tweed, all I really need is the girl...

re: Cutting a Song to 16 bars

Posted: 11/4/04 at 6:09pm

It is essential to know every song in your repertoire in its entirety, even if you use only a cutting from it. Not knowing the song sends out the message that you have not examined the material nor activated it fully. Semper paratus.
To find suitable "sixteens, " seek the services of a reputable vocal coach who understands an actor's needs.

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