Let’s

help each other

to remember

these rules!

Preparing singers for careers in music

Patricia Feltmann,

Singing instructor

Tip of the month

I am going to be a stickler about student behavior at contests this year.  We had a few unsportsman-like things happen in the past that I do not care to repeat. 

Bad behavior reflects badly on me and all of us, not just on you.  Remember, the person who hears or sees negative things may be the person in charge of hiring singers for a county fair, or hiring for your next job at Burger Bob’s.  

We need to display professionalism, maturity and grace.

Here are the rules that we all need to abide by:

· Never say anything negative about another performer or the judging while you are still at the event.  If you must complain about bad performances or bad judging, wait until the car ride home.  I am going to be very firm on this point!!

· Be polite to all other competitors, before, during and after their performance.

· Please do compliment when you enjoyed another’s performance, even if you would have preferred them to have not done so well.

· Smile, no matter what place you get, or don’t get.

· Remember, sometimes bad judging places you higher than you deserve.

· Remember, it is guaranteed that there will be some bad judging this summer.  It’s the nature of things.

· No booing.

· When sitting with friends or other students, be careful of the impression whispering and giggling can give.  People may think you are saying mean things about them or other performers.

· Applaud all performers.

· Do not do anything that will distract from someone else’s performance—loud talking, yelling, laughing, etc.  If you can’t be a good audience, go somewhere else.

· Do not give unsolicited advice or suggestions.  No matter how well you know the person, or how badly they need to know what you have to say, do not give constructive criticism unless they request it from you.  I follow this rule as well, and teaching singing is my job.  When you see someone after their performance, think of something nice to say.  “Good job!” is always a good choice, just for getting up there.  “That was the best stage presence you’ve ever done”,  “I love that song!”, “Wow, great high notes”, etc.  If they only thank you for your compliment and don’t ask for your opinion about how they could do better—keep it to yourself.

· Make sure you thank people for their compliments!

· You may keep written notes about others’ performances for your own personal information.  But please do not share your notes at the event.  Keep them to yourself.

· All of these rules apply not only to students,  but to parents and others you bring to hear you.  Please inform them of the rules.

Contest etiquette

April 2006