Many believe that talent alone determines a performer’s access to ease and flexibility. And while natural ability is an undeniable contributing factor to performer’s coordination, it is not representative of the work required to shape a reliable and consistent vocalization. Vocal function is the product of a number of muscles tensing and releasing in a delicately balanced way. In order to unlock the power of the voice, we must shift our understanding of a person’s vocal coordination as being a “product of talent” to the result of the awareness, focus, and diligence of practice that is equivalent to that of an athlete.

Many college programs in musical theatre are successful in developing the skills necessary as a singer, dancer, and actor to jumpstart a career. However, many programs offer only one semester on learning the business skills required as a performer to excel and, as a result, leave you unprepared on how to navigate it as a self-employed artist. Here are some of my thoughts on what every aspiring performer new to NYC should consider when thinking about their newly-founded small business that is you!

When I was 17 years old, I was performing as Tony in my high school’s production of WEST SIDE STORY. Three weeks before opening night, I had decided to meet with an Otolaryngologist and after having looked down my throat with a dental mirror, the doctor dramatically said, “You should never sing again. You have nodules”. 10+ years later, I share my thoughts on how I define what it means to be “vocally” healthy and the how to look out for the signs that may indicate to you that you should consult a competent laryngologist.

In the captivating world of musical theater, technical skill alone is not enough to leave a lasting impression. It is the art of interpretation, the ability to infuse every word and melody with truthful emotion, that sets performances ablaze and captivates audiences. It is the paramount component to booking work as a musical theater performer and it is a skill that must be nurtured and practiced. But what is it about the emotional interpretation of a performer that creates lasting impression?

In order to be successful in the pursuit of a career in musical theatre, you need a vocal instrument you can rely on. And if you have ever been in an audition room or performed in a production of a show, you understand the concern of whether it is going to be a “good” vocal day, or a “bad” vocal day. How do we increase the “on” days and decrease the “off” days?