By Novella03/27/2023
Tags: Comments SnapSession Tips Views
Quick Tips On How To Win A Contest
Contests and challenges are a big (and fun) part of the SingSnap culture. They not only provide entertainment but they challenge you to sometimes step out of your comfort zone and to get involved. Previously, we hosted a session on how to Host A Successful Contest but now it is time to discuss how to win!
The number one thing you have to understand before even entering a contest is...
1. You May Not Win - Be Kind: One of the most important, and often overlooked, components to entering a contest is understanding that the odds of you winning are not in your favor. This doesn't mean you don't give it everything you have but when the results are read - be kind. Remember to check your ego at the door because if you go into this behaving as though you are better than everyone else - it will actually show in your performance, you won't give invest 100% and you may be disappointed and lash out when the contest is complete. This makes it an unfavorable experience for everyone.
2. Choose Your Contest Wisely: It is uber important you check out all the contests in the Contests - Auditions Folder. Pay attention to 1. The Duration - make sure you are available for however long the contest lasts and can make the deadline. 2. The Judges - it is important you respect the talent/people who are hosting so check them out before you enter! 3. The Theme - each contest will have genres/themes, so make sure you enjoy the format they have set up! 4. The Extra Requirements - some contests require you listen to your fellow contestants, learn new songs, etc., So be sure to read all the details so you know if the contest is a good fit for you! The more you know going into it, the better your odds will be at placing near the top.
3. Song Choice - Part One: The number one, most important thing to consider is what song you will sing. The song should always meet the contest objective. It should be a song that you can emotionally connect to. The song should be one that shows off all aspects of your voice. The highs, lows, the power, the vibrato. Understand your voice and what your strengths are and find a song that showcases the best of what you have to offer. Knowing the song well is important as well but don't get lost in going through the motions. If it's too easy for you to sing, it will show in the finished version so always, always challenge yourself - at least a little bit.
4. Song Choice - Part Two: Choosing a song you can sing well is important but singing one the judges will enjoy is also super important. Every judge will have a bias, regardless of if they want to or not. Scan the judges songs, know the kind of music they like and pick a song that not only YOU sing well and fits the theme but also looks like something the judges may enjoy. Remember, your goal is to make everyone listening think you're the best and be entertained. It never hurts to select your song with that in mind!
5. Sing It More Than Once: Deadlines can be tough but if possible, sing the song more than once. Sing it on different days or with a break in between. Save a few renditions and then listen back at a later date and submit the one you think is the best. Being emotionally engaged in a song is absolutely priceless and if you sing the same song 15 times in a row, it starts to lose the authenticity. You will find yourself going through the motions and being too picky and critical. The best part of music is the joy, connection and emotion the performance inspires.
6. Engage With The Audience: Singing on cam isn't for everyone but if you can swing it - do it. There is simply no comparison to being able to see someone 'feel' the song they're singing. Connect with your audience emotionally through your voice, body language, and facial expressions. Use stage presence as a tool to show your charisma and personality!
7. Believe In Yourself: This may seem like a contradiction to the first rule but there is a huge spanse between being arrogant and assuming you will win and believing in yourself and your strengths. Believe in your talent, believe in your voice, and show confidence in your performance. A positive attitude can influence the judges' perception of your performance.
Contests can be an amazing way to challenge yourself, meet new people and pass some time! Drop a comment below and share a positive experience you have had participating in a contest on SingSnap!
Happy Singing!
For your chance to get featured in an SS blog, social media post, What's Snappenin' OR as an exclusive SnapStar, participate in challenges and create cool, creative and fun videos! We also welcome links to be sent to us on Facebook or Instagram message for any content that you'd like to be shared with the world.