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VIDEOS & PRE-SCREENS

You can find excellent resources on my helpful links page. Below is a list of top tips, and things we learned in the process.

You may find my November published 'Tis the Season for Prescreens blog post helpful.

 

In 2019, a Common Pre-Screen was developed and is being used by many schools. Click the button below to access the site with all the information on the Common Pre-Screen.

How to make college pre-screen

  • ​Prepare and rehearse your material at a high level before you begin recording

  • Make sure you know what you need to record. Make a list and look for any overlaps.

  • IF you don't have a list, look at my "Where to start? Prepare..." box on the right.

  • Wear a flattering color and outfit.

  • Speak just to the left or right of the lens as your "scene partner".

  • Find a neutral space to film in with no distractions in the background.

  • If using a cell phone, ipad or tablet, place it horizontally.

  • Use a tripod or something to keep the camera or phone steady.

  • Don't include the accompanist in the shot (they're not auditioning!)

  • Review the framing of the shot they'd like, if none is listed, waist up should suffice for monologues and songs, full body for Shakespeare and dance.

  • Slate with your name and the name of your piece before each cut. Some colleges are specific about how they want your slate, but you can always edit it out.

  • Check the sound after a short take:

    • Does it sound like you're singing into a tin can?

    • Is the piano/accomp louder than the voice?

    • Are the high or low notes distorted?

  • Review each take, make adjustments and re-record as needed

WHERE TO START?

PREPARE...

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  • 60-90 second monologue

  • 60-90 second uptempo song

  • 60-90 second ballad

               -- then add --

  • 60-90 second contrasting monologue

  • 60 second "wild-card" video

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