The S-M-A-R-T Singer Is/Is A

1. Sincere-(rapport)
A good singer connects with his/her audience. (For better reading, I'll be using the masculine gender but everything I say applies also to the ladies. I mean I will refrain from using his/her from this point.) Learn to look people in the eyes. And when you do, linger. Stay a full second or two on every face. It shows your sincerity. Avoid shifty eyes; it conveys lack of confidence on your part. You can actually train yourself. Start with family and friends and ask for their honest opinions and comments.

2. Messenger-(communicates)
You have a message. My niece Bethel Faye who incidentally is a Music Major once shared to the choir that many choristers are "singing hypocrites." Ouch, you don't want people to see you as one. Visualize how your interpretation and expression would match your song. Funny, I just remembered some rising celebrity while singing a sad love song about breaking up, kept waving and smiling at her fans. Her fans don't mind but what about the others who don't share their fancy?

3. Aligned-(correct posture)
I have mentioned in my other post When You Sing the proper singing alignment needed to be observed by singers to produce a free and ringing voice. Proper training is imperative if one wants to pursue a life or career in singing; or simply to join a singing group or chorale. You can move around if you like while singing, but keep the alignment. Ok, imagine a pencil hanging by a thread in your stomach passing invisibly upwards to the center top of your head. This provides a roomy sounding board for your voice to come out smoothly and freely.

4. Respectable-(presentable)
He has the stage presence. Commands attention. The secret? The combination of all the other four characteristics I mentioned here. He smiles confidently, he connects with the audience, and he dressed for the part. Aesthetically, physically, intellectually and emotionally he is well-prepared. Almost like the formula for the elusive X-factor.

5. Tranquil-(cool, relaxed)
Ok, maybe you sing in the choir or singly because you know you can. So be cool about it. However, being cool is the result of mastery not only of the song at hand but of the singing machine as well. Well-preparedness and proper training. And yes, you should have developed your personality to exude self-assurance. Although in the church setting, you need to be spiritually in tune so as to be confident before the eyes (and ears) of God and men. An excellent singer would make his audience think that singing is really easy and effortless.

So there, try to be S-M-A-R-T the next time you walk up the stage.