Music rehearsals are a huge part of musical theatre and they can be pretty intimidating sometimes so here are some tips to help you succeed.

Please note: I will be saying MD when referring to the Music Director. The Music Director is the person who teaches the music to the cast in the rehearsal process.

1. Pre-learn your part to the best of your ability

Pre-learning is especially helpful if you are working on a musically advanced show. Pre-learning for me sometimes is as simple as looking at the song quick before rehearsal but sometimes (when the song is super complex) I have to sit down at the piano and plunk out all the notes. It really just depends. If you know your vocal part (Baritone, Tenor, Alto, Soprano, etc.) there is a good chance you’ll know what you’ll be singing for each song. However, sometimes the MD will split things up differently then you expect so just be mindful that what you pre-learn might not always be what you sing (so don’t highlight anything).

2. Record your Part

If you aren’t the most skilled piano player and plunking out your part isn’t really an option you can always record the MD playing your part. This is always something that’s good to ask if it’s okay before you do it just in case the MD is particular about phones in the rehearsal space. Also pro-tip, label your recordings in rehearsal! This will save so much time for future you.

3. Ask Questions

Don’t be afraid to ask to hear something again or for clarification on anything. Just be polite and efficient in the way you ask questions and don’t apologize! I know so many MDs who hate when people do that. Also remember (even though it’s cliché) that other people probably have the same question you do.

4. Write Everything Down

Write down any notes that the MD has, even if you have a great memory. I promise you that there is no way you will remember everything. Also circle parts you struggle with in rehearsal so you know what to practice later. I personally also highlight the part I’m singing which is super helpful when there’s more complex harmonies.

5. Use a piano app with Headphones

This is something I just recently started doing and it has been a game-changer! To do this I just use a free piano app on my phone and my knock-off AirPods. It’s so helpful because anything I need to hear again I can literally just play. Please note that this is another thing you might have to double check with MD. However, in my experience they are normally okay with it and it’s definitely worth asking.

6. Say thank you to your music director

Your MD is an essential part of the creative team and chances are you will work with them again so be nice and say thank you! I cannot emphasize how important it is to build good relationships throughout your career and your MD is no exception.

7. Don’t skip on the ear training

Ear training sucks and it’s hard to do but… it’s unfortunately super important. So try and make it a bit of a routine to go over intervals to keep your skills sharp. I recommend using Musictheory.net or teoria.com for this. These are both free websites and they are pretty user friendly.

8. Practice everyday to the best of your ability

Practicing everyday is a huge commitment but it is worth it. Even if you’re just spending 5 minutes on one song to keep a routine it’ll help you so much. I always set the goal to be off-book for the next time we look at a song with MD (that doesn’t mean I always hit that goal but I try my best). Just practice your music as much as you can so that when you start to do choreography you can just focus on dancing and not worry about what you are singing.

I hope that these tips help you out and please share any other tips that you find helpful. I wish you the best of luck in your music rehearsal!

Thank you for reading,

Camryn