Vibrato

[Theatrebaby-Ki]

I'm a junior in high school looking to get into performing art schools to study musical theatre. I really do believe that I have what it takes. I can act and sing quite well (although my dancing is all over the place, besides the point).

My only problem is that unlike many amazingly talented performers, I can't seem to produce vibrato. My vocal teacher said that achieving this is supposed to take a long time but I'm very worried that the judges at the audition will look past my other qualities and grade me down for not having a vibrato.

This is the only thing that's stressing me out right now. Please be honest, will the judges judge me differently because I can't produce vibrato? Did it take long for you to achieve it? Is there anything that I can do to improve my voice to allow vibrato to happen? Thanks.

[MedicoDeMuerto]

Hi! First off, cool that you have an interest in theatre. I'll try to answer your questions as best I can.

 

I'm not entirely sure who you're referring to as judges. If you mean in a singing competition, I'd say it depends on the style. If you mean college judges, or auditors, then it will come into play. If you audition for Musical Theatre programs, you will be asked to sing a classical song. Legit. This mean lots of vibrato, usually throughout with few exceptions. Not to mention, even contemporary songs don't sound as full without a little vibrato. Your year is going to be especially competitive, due to the exponential rise in interest in this career path (thanks to Hamilton, La La Land, and Dear Evan Hansen). If you're also not confident in your dancing (which is a large aspect of most programs) I would strongly suggest pursuing an acting degree. You will still be able to take classes in singing and dancing, but in this case your inexperience in either will not bar your admission completely. These are also highly competitive though, it won't be a cake walk, even for experienced thespians. But it is not impossible. Always allow for the fact that you're the first you to exist, therefore the experience and statistics of others is irrelevant. Hard work. All it takes.

 

I started training when I was 14. I achieved vibrato when I was 15 and I'm still perfecting it. It took me two years to get to a point where I could sing legit correctly. Not to say you can't get there faster. Good luck, you have my best wishes.