Thursday, July 11, 2019

Stampede BBQ

I had the lovely opportunity of singing for a Stampede-themed bbq recently!
Of course, most of the music was country, but I also took a few requests.
I am hoping to go through the videos today or tomorrow and potentially upload some clips.
I had such a nice time.
I added a few new songs and sang my little heart out.

This weekend I also have another opportunity to sing.
I have been fortunate enough, over the past few years, of having gigs that were an hour or longer. Usually there is some sort of theme, so it is easy to come up with a number of songs, and then I simply choose as I go along based on how I am performing vocally. That is what is so nice about having a pretty extensive repertoire.

Earlier in the year I performed for a St. Patrick's Day themed fundraiser, and tried to keep close to an East Coast/Irish genre, with more upbeat music sprinkled in. Obviously over Christmas I stick with holiday music, Valentine's Day is all about love songs, and Hallowe'en is all about dark themes. Weddings, Funerals, country events, many of these have a specific type of genre or tempo that they want performed.
What happens, though, when you are given an opportunity to sing only one or two songs?

I have always had difficulty with song selections for competitions and very small gigs. I usually overthink it. I want to showcase my voice and vocal range, I want something exciting and not over-done, and I like to showcase my piano skills as well. Then, I often want to add potentially a different language (since I write songs in French as well). By the time I find a song, it is often something I do not know well or I have become so nervous about the song selection that I mess it up.
I have many songs that I have performed over and over again - songs that are quite polished. But when I get to a point where I am trying to compete, sometimes I feel as though choosing those polished songs is not taking enough of a risk; that I am playing it safe.

It is safe to say that I overthink song selection to my own demise.

I have an opportunity to sing this weekend, but I am limited to two songs.
I am running into the same problem.
Should I be performing my own songs from my own albums? Should I showcase a polished cover? Should I do an upbeat one and a slow one? Should I do a French one and an English one? Should I do a fan favourite or one with a big range?

I am so used to singing for 1-2 hours that I rarely have to limit my repertoire. I do not often feel like I am unable to showcase everything I want to showcase. Having only 2 songs means that I will be missing certain aspects of what I love so much about performing.
These type of gigs are usually amazing opportunities, with industry professionals present or a competitive atmosphere.

Over the next couple of days I will choose 2-3 songs and go with what feels best on the day. I will also have to do an injection to prevent my throat from swelling because I will be nervous.

I guess we'll find out.
Any advice on song selection?

Above all, I love My Musical Life!

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