So, your Ready to perform.  Showcases are often an artists first opportunity to perform in front of an audience.    Usually a mix of polished and raw talent,  Showcases are often promoted to artists as a ticket to stardom.  Young striving artists envision themselves being driven off in a chaufered limousine, with swooning Music Industry Executives in tow. In reality these shows are just a step on the path to success.  



     Showcases can actually be a useful tool to a perpective Artist.  However it is important to know how to make use of these events. 

     Here are a few ways to benefit from a showcase :

Fine Tuning.  Use this opportunity to sharpen your stage pressence. This includes your ability to connect with an audience and command attention.   Be aware that your audience is made up of other performers and their entourages, they are not there to see you, so commanding attention will not be easy. 

Testing New Original Material.  Monitor the audiences response to your material:   Are they paying attention to you ?, What is their facial expression ?, What is their body language ?.  Use a freind in the audience to casually overhear the coomments during your performance.

Observing.  Watch other performers.  Notice:  How the audience responds to them. Their image. Their stage pressence. Techniques.       Look for trends in :  Music, Dress, Performance. 

Fullfilling  Needs.  An artist requires many people and many services to complete a continuously marketable product.  Look for :  Producers,  Writers,  Managers,  Engineers,  Promoters,  and services like: photographers,  Graphic Designers, Stylists , Choreographers, etc.

Networking.  Be approachable and outgoing.  Bring business cards and give them out freely.  Mix and mingle and give positive feedback to other artists.  Do not be arrogant or negative.  Making connections with other performers is an excellent way of learning about auditions,  radio shows,  cable shows, magazines, and other events.

     If you understand what can be gained by participating in  showcases they can be beneficial to your growth.  Have realistic expectations and keep your goals in mind.  Remeber, Fine Tune, Observe, Fulfill Needs, Network.

Eve Soto

Your Vocal Coach