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Forums :: General Discussion

Advice for a 90 Second Talent Competition

2 replies [Last post]
Tue, 06/30/2015 - 12:42
chriscovino
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Joined: 06/29/2015

Hey Everyone; I'm new to the forum, though I've been playing harmonica since 1998, and I've only had one true lesson, with Joe Filisko at Olde Towne in Chicago!! Besides that, I had spent some time (a lot actually) backstage with BT, and John himself used to talk to me about things I should practice ("Triplets" was his first One Word Lesson), but other than that, I just get on stage when a local band allows, and to my blues records (mp3's nowadays).

I feel like I'm better than average, and I think I might actually be pretty good, and while I will be exploring the LoA here, I have gone and signed up to audition for the Rising Star competition (not ABC network) in my hometown, and I get 90 seconds to earn a callback...

I was thinking about just whipping out an mp3 and playing along.

 

If y'all like that idea, then I'd love to hear your suggestions for grabbing an audience, and showing the requisite skills in 90 seconds.

If you think playing harmonica to a song (though melodic, interpretive, and technical) is weak, please help me!!

I have a degree in Theatre and have been to more than enough auditions where I knew I was better than someone else who got the role, because my audition piece just wasn't flashy enough...

What can I do to make them want me to come back and do it again?

Thanks in advance, y'all!!

Chris Covino

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Thu, 07/02/2015 - 06:38
#1
chriscovino
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Joined: 06/29/2015
Am I in the correct Forum?

30 views, no suggestions?

Was it something I said?

 

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Thu, 07/02/2015 - 09:46
#2
hank stefaniak
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Teacher 6Level 9
Joined: 12/20/2009
Don't sweat it!

Not many people respond to some topics so its not like you need to shower ;-)

 

For me its not knowing anything about that particular contest. If it were sponsored by harmonica folks, then that's one thing (depending too on the genre). If its for entertainment, thats another thing altogether. I'm reminded of JD Miller when he went on 'America's Got Talent'. That was pure entertainment value and he has really developed his harmonica skills over the years. You don't seem to lack confidence so all I can say is look at the contest parameters, research what has done well onver the last couple of years and use that to guide you. I doubt (if its not a harminca event) that they are looking for a harp virtuoso and pretty sure you will want to impress them with your entertainment value. That usually means up tempo with a look at me/listen to what I can do attitude. They likely won't appreciate the finesse of advanced harmonica techniques but wil appreciate rhythm, groove and being entertained.

But then hey, what do I know? Good luck

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