X Factor is a very popular TV show, where people audition to become a famous singer in today's music charts. They have found Leona Lewis, One Direction, Cher Lloyd, Olly Murs, Little Mix and Rebecca Ferguson. If you want to audition, this is the way to start.
Step
Method 1 of 2: Before Audition
Step 1. Know the deadlines and rules
For the British X-factor, there are different dates and different rules. Make sure you meet all the requirements and complete each step before the deadline.
You must be 14 years or older. This is regardless of whether you are performing in a group or solo
Step 2. Master a verse of a song
Or two songs, just in case the person before you sings the same song. You'll sing it acapella (without any instruments or accompaniment, just you) in front of a member of the X-Factor team and the crowd around you.
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Avoid cliches. Only sing songs of Whitney Houston, Michael Jackson or Jennifer Hudson if you are equally good. Pick a song that you know won't be the 500th time your judges hear it that day. If that happens, you will be compared to other people on two different levels.
The judge doesn't need to know the song. In fact, it was better if they didn't know him
Step 3. Submit the application online
Before the season starts, an online application form is available on your country's version of the X Factor website. It's available months in advance, so you'll likely have to wait until the next season starts.
There are many auditions using "moving vans" every year. In fact, that's how James Arthur auditioned. Connect on the website, Facebook and Twitter for announcements
Step 4. Find an open call
If you miss the online app, there are still open calls. Thousands of people do it. If one is being held in your area, great! Put on your suit and start practicing.
In the UK, open call auditions are held in London, Birmingham, Manchester, Cardiff and Glasgow. However, there were a number of moving van auditions, some of which were in Aberdeen, Colchester, the Isle of Wight and Dublin
Step 5. Choose an outfit
On the audition notice received when you filled out your form, it is clearly stated to be different. Personality is very diverse, so there really is no limit to it. Whatever fits your personality, go for it.
- This show is all about appearance. Here's what the form says: "Dress up the pop star of your dreams, we're looking for the next big musical sensation, so make an impact. We also strongly encourage everyone to bring posters and banners to the open day, the brighter the better!"
- Fortunately or unfortunately (it's not clear which one is correct), wearing your wedding dress or a plastic chicken on your head is not unheard of. You can stand out by not trying too hard, believe it or not.
Step 6. Keep warming up
If the auditions are still in a few months, don't stop. Practice your performance more or less every day until you can do it on one leg and with your hands tied behind your back. Stay vocally healthy to begin with.
Drink warm water. Avoid alcohol (which dries your throat) and definitely don't smoke. If you are worried that your throat is itchy, drink green tea, pineapple juice and give your vocals a rest. Don't force your voice, it will only drain it
Method 2 of 2: At the Open Audition
Step 1. Arrive early
There will be literally thousands of other people waiting near you to get their 30 seconds too. Parking will be limited, so if you can avoid bringing a vehicle, do so. And if you are a minor, bring a chaperone with you.
Get there much earlier. People will be waiting since early morning. Chances are you'll want to bring food, a drink (water!), a chair and something to entertain yourself with
Step 2. Be patient
This will likely take a full day. That is even if you have been told to get there by 8am. They see thousands of people and most likely won't start until everything is ready and everyone has entered the arena (or whatever the type of venue). Your audition will last approximately approximately 8 hours after you arrive.
Take the weather into account. Your hair and makeup likely won't look as fabulous as you'd like when you audition at 5pm and have been there from 5am. Bring extra makeup and comfortable shoes. You will be grateful you did
Step 3. Sing to your heart's content
Finally, the fun part! When your number is called, a team member (someone you won't know) will approach you and hear you sing. You will be doing this in front of everyone, there are no specific areas restricted to singers. Take a deep breath and do something extraordinary or go home.
The judge will then give you a polite yes or no. They are not allowed to criticize you or give you input. If you are successful, you will be notified or called back to audition at the next set date
Tips
- Take water with you. Make sure the water is not cold, as it will tighten your vocal cords.
- Don't use harsh words or anything you're likely to regret. You only get one chance to make a first impression.
- Believe in yourself! Superstars don't show their nervousness.
- If you're nervous about singing in front of people, practice singing in front of toys or friends. If that doesn't work, join a singing club that does shows.
