How to Nail Your Singing Audition — Even If You're Nervous

Yesterday, I did something I hadn’t done in years: I went to an audition.

If you’ve been following my journey, you know I’m a vocal coach and perform regularly. I sing at open mics and shows, and I rarely feel nervous about it anymore. But this time, I was auditioning for a show I really wanted to be part of—and I was nervous. Like, full-body, voice-shaking, uncomfortable kind of nervous.

I had forgotten how scary auditions can be. You’re not just performing—you’re being judged. People are literally taking notes on your singing while you’re doing it.

Still, the audition went really well. Why? Because I was prepared.

So in this post, I’m going to walk you through exactly what I did to prepare—and how you can use the same steps to absolutely nail your next audition, even if you’re feeling anxious.

Part 1: What to Do Before Audition Week

🎵 Know Your Song Back to Front

Don’t just “kind of” know the lyrics. You need to be able to sing your song without a backing track, without reading lyrics, and without hesitation. You should know the structure, the lyrics, the transitions, the dynamics—everything.

Sing it sitting, standing, lying down. Sing it in the shower. Sing it in your sleep. Make it muscle memory.

Part 2: What to Do During Audition Week

1. Daily Vocal Warm-Ups

Warm up every day, but make sure your warm-ups support your specific song. If you're singing something that involves belting, your warm-ups should build toward that function.

Be mindful of how your voice feels. A healthy vocal technique allows you to warm up longer and more effectively.

2. Move Your Body

Don’t try a brand-new workout this week, but do stay active. Running, walking, dancing, stretching—all great for keeping your body in a flexible, low-pressure state, which helps your voice stay responsive and grounded.

3. Prioritize Sleep

This is not the week for late-night Netflix. Sleep at the same time every night and wake up at the same time every morning. Good rest is essential for vocal stability and mental calm.

4. Avoid Stressors

Postpone difficult conversations. Say no to things that will emotionally drain you. Stress shifts your body into a high-pressure mode that makes singing harder.

5. Hydrate Well

Hydration is critical for your vocal folds and your nervous system. Don’t just drink water—balance your hydration with coconut water, fruits, or a pinch of sea salt. If you’re drinking coffee, double your water intake.

6. Study Your Route

Map out exactly how you’ll get to your audition. Know the exits, traffic patterns, travel time, and parking options. Avoid surprises.

7. Sing in Different Environments

This is where you build neuroplasticity and prep your system for the unexpected. Sing in front of friends, in different rooms, or at open mics. Try different positions—standing, sitting, moving around. The more variation, the better your brain adapts to pressure.

8. Eat Dinner Early

Have your dinner at least 3 hours before bed. Avoid spicy foods or citrus that can trigger reflux, which can leave your voice groggy the next day.

9. Listen to Great Singers

What you hear shapes how you sing. Surround yourself with voices that inspire and elevate you—especially those who nail the style you’re singing for your audition.

Part 3: The Day of the Audition

✅ Sleep Well (Again)

If your audition is in the morning, go to bed early. You need time to wake up your body and your voice.

✅ Avoid All Stressors

No rushing, no difficult conversations, no phone notifications. Put your phone on airplane mode and give yourself a bubble of peace.

✅ Stay Hydrated (Again)

Start early. Your vocal folds need about 20 minutes to benefit from any water you drink. Don't rely on a quick sip before your audition.

✅ Warm Up—The Right Way

Use your usual warm-up routine (tailored to your needs), and include one powerful technique: sing your song using only vowels. This puts your body into singing function mode and helps avoid pushing or tension.

✅ Do Something Calming

Stretch. Breathe. Meditate. Try the “wings” breath exercise:

• Inhale for 12 counts as you raise your arms.

• Hold for 12 counts.

• Exhale for 12 counts as you lower your arms.
  Repeat this three times.

If you have time, a warm bath with Epsom salts or a Feldenkrais session can help you stay grounded and connected to your body.

✅ Eat Smart

Eat about 2–3 hours before the audition. Choose light, nourishing foods like non-citrus fruits, vegetables, a little protein (eggs, nuts, etc). Avoid heavy meals, wheat, and anything that causes bloating. Save the pizza for after!

Final Reminders

• Arrive early. Account for traffic, delays, parking—anything that could spike your stress.

• Do NOT sing your song in the car. Driving puts your nervous system on alert, and singing in that state can teach your body the wrong vocal habits.

• Once at the audition, breathe. Feel your body. Trust your preparation.

Auditions are scary. But if you prepare wisely, your body will remember what to do—even when your nerves kick in.

If you try these steps for your next audition, let me know how it goes! I’d love to hear from you. And if you’re looking for personalized guidance to prepare for an audition or level up your singing, you can book a call with me here.

You’ve got this.

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Written by Jorgelina Pérez
Vocal Coach | Performer | Voice & Movement Specialist