American Singer Musical Theatre Intensive 2013: “Ask”
American Singer Music Theater Intensive 2013
A faculty panel on “Singing and….” brainstormed ways of balancing performing with the other important parts of your life (family, travel, teaching, job etc). This discussion led to a broader discussion on ways that we self-sabotage our auditions, performances, life and career choices.
- ASK. If you need help, try asking someone specific or everyone on your friends list. Be prepared for the “no” but don’t be shocked at the “yes." 
- STOP WHINING! You chose this (school, job, town, partner.) Just stop whining. 
- YOU ARE THE CUSTOMER. If a school, teacher, or talent agent isn’t meeting your needs, remind yourself that you are the customer. Be open to discussing ways to improve the situation or make a change. 
- DON"T LIMIT YOURSELF. How many of your constraints are not from other people and circumstances, but from your own doubts. 
- FIND JOY WHERE YOU ARE-IN THE MOMENT. Maybe you can’t make a change right now. So, what is working and bringing you joy right now, where you are? Be grateful. 
- OWN YOUR CHOICES. (See #2) 
- WHAT DO I WANT? Yes, its fine to seek the advice of your peers and mentors, but ultimately this is your decision. 
- USE MENTORS. There are people who have been down this path before. Listen to them. Then form your own decision. 
- BE HAPPY! (See #5) 
- FAIL! This is essential. The surest way to avoid fear of failure is to try and sometimes fail. Go out on a limb. Step out of your comfort zone. (See #4) 
- HIT THE RESET BUTTON. If what you are doing is no longer working, what next? 
Courtesy of ASMTI2013 faculty: Douglas Webster, Wysandria Woolsey, Yvonne Gonzales Redman, Michael Gribbin, Cynthia Vaughn, ASMTI alum Erin Voorhies Batlle. July 18, 2013. AmericanSinger.com
