How to Choose the Right Song for Your Performance: A Guide for Eisteddfod Participants

Choosing the right song for your performance at the Eisteddfod can be a game-changer. It’s not just about selecting a piece you like, but also about finding a song that suits your voice, your style, and the message you want to convey. The perfect song can help you shine, showcase your strengths, and leave a lasting impression on the judges and audience. Here's a guide to help you select the best piece for your Eisteddfod performance:

1. Know Your Voice and Range

The first step in choosing the right song is understanding your vocal strengths and limitations.

Assess your vocal range: Choose a song that fits comfortably within your vocal range. If a song has notes that are too high or too low for your voice, you may struggle to sing it confidently, affecting your overall performance.
Vocal style: Some songs are better suited for certain vocal types. For example, if you have a classical training, songs from opera or musical theatre might be a great fit. If you have a contemporary voice, pop, rock, or jazz could allow you to showcase your unique sound.
Consider the difficulty: Pick a song that challenges you, but not one that’s too difficult. The Eisteddfod is an opportunity to grow as a performer, but if you choose something too ambitious, it might hinder your ability to deliver a strong performance.

2. Pick a Song That Reflects Your Personality

The song you choose should reflect who you are as an artist. It should be something that resonates with you emotionally, as that connection will shine through in your performance. Ask yourself:

Do I relate to the lyrics? A song that speaks to you emotionally will make your performance feel more genuine. Whether the song is about love, loss, or empowerment, find one that allows you to tell your own story.
Does the style match my artistic identity? If you’re known for your powerful vocal runs, pick a song that gives you the freedom to showcase that skill. If you’re known for your emotional delivery, choose a song with meaningful lyrics that allow you to connect deeply with the audience.

3. Choose a Song That Challenges You (But Not Too Much)

While you want to choose something within your ability, don’t shy away from pushing your limits. Eisteddfods are about growth, so it’s essential to select a song that stretches your vocal and performance abilities.

Focus on growth: Look for a song that teaches you something new. Whether it’s a different vocal technique, a new genre, or an unfamiliar rhythm, the right song will provide you with a learning opportunity.
Practice with purpose: While challenging yourself, make sure the song is still achievable with practice. Choose a piece that you can prepare well within the time you have leading up to the event.

4. Consider the Song’s Appeal to the Judges and Audience

Eisteddfods often have a panel of judges who are assessing both technical ability and performance. Picking the right song can help you stand out, so consider the following:

Universal appeal: Songs that are familiar and well-loved by audiences tend to create an immediate connection. While it’s great to perform something unique, remember that a familiar song can work to your advantage, allowing your performance to shine even more.
Technical difficulty and originality: Judges will appreciate a song that demonstrates your vocal control and technical skill. At the same time, they’ll enjoy seeing you put your personal twist on a song, so think about how you can make it your own. Small changes to phrasing or dynamics can make a big difference.

5. Take the Genre into Account

Eisteddfods often have different categories for various music genres, from classical to contemporary, musical theatre, jazz, and more. Be sure to choose a song that fits the category you're entering, and that aligns with the rules of the event.

Know the rules: Each Eisteddfod has its own criteria for song selection. Make sure the song you choose aligns with the event’s requirements—whether that’s time length, genre, or accompaniment style.
Experiment with different genres: If you’re unsure of which category to choose, explore different genres and see what resonates with your voice. A pop song might suit your vocal style, but a classic musical theatre number could showcase your acting skills and emotional depth.

6. Make Sure You Can Perform It Confidently

Your performance is not just about singing the right notes—it’s about bringing energy, expression, and personality to the stage. Choose a song that you can deliver with confidence.

Comfort is key: If you feel nervous or uncertain about the song, it may show in your performance. Choose something you feel at ease with, so you can focus on engaging with the audience and performing with confidence.
Be ready to perform it as a whole package: It’s important to practice not only the vocal aspects of the song but also your stage presence, facial expressions, and body language. The song you choose should allow you to perform it as a cohesive and engaging act.

7. Consider the Accompaniment

Think about how the song will be accompanied—whether it's with a backing track, live band, piano, or acapella.

Backup tracks and live musicians: If you're using a backing track, make sure it’s of high quality and fits your performance style. If you’re performing with live accompaniment, ensure that you and your accompanist are well-rehearsed and in sync.
Piano or other instruments: For instrumental accompaniment, make sure the song works well with the arrangement. A song with complex piano parts might require more rehearsal with your accompanist, so consider whether you have the time and resources to practice thoroughly.

8. Have Fun with Your Choice

Finally, remember that music is about enjoyment. Choose a song that excites you and gives you the freedom to express yourself. Eisteddfods are a great opportunity to share your passion with others, so let that passion shine through your performance.

Feel the joy: If you enjoy the song you’re performing, your energy will be contagious. The audience and judges will feel your excitement and connect with you on a deeper level.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right song is one of the most important decisions you’ll make leading up to your Eisteddfod performance. By considering your vocal abilities, emotional connection, and audience appeal, you can select a piece that showcases your strengths and allows you to shine. Remember, the perfect song is one that challenges you, suits your voice, and helps you deliver a performance that truly reflects who you are as an artist.

Good luck, and enjoy the process of discovering the song that will elevate your performance to new heights!