The Director's Cut: How to Film a College Pre-Screen 

That Gets You a Callback

By VICTOR LOPEZ

I always tell my students that the college pre-screen is the first time you get to control the narrative. It’s just you and a camera in a quiet room, and for a few minutes, you get to show the world the most authentic, polished version of who you are. This isn't just a video submission; it's your chance to eliminate all the unknowns of a live audition—the nerves, the room, the accompanist—and focus solely on a flawless, powerful delivery. It's the moment you stop dreaming about doing and start doing. Let's dig in!

The Pre-Screen Audition

The pre-screen is your first impression, and unlike a live audition, you have complete control over every aspect. This isn't just a video; it's a meticulously crafted vocal resume.

Requirements

Beyond the standard monologues and dance combinations, the vocal pre-screen has its own set of unique demands. The schools want to hear your voice, and they want to hear it clearly. This means your songs must be recorded with a professional-quality backing track—never a cappella, and never with a low-quality MIDI file. Most schools ask for two contrasting songs. My top-tier students know this means showcasing not just vocal range, but emotional range. One uptempo, one ballad. One from a classic Golden Age show, one from a contemporary piece. A truly polished pre-screen will also include a "slate," where you introduce yourself and your songs. What I teach my students is that this slate is an audition in itself; it’s your chance to show your personality and command the camera.

How to Prepare

This is where the magic happens. We start this process in the summer before their senior year.

When to Do It

I've seen so many students scramble to get their pre-screens done at the last minute, and it always shows in their work. The majority of pre-screen deadlines fall in October and November, with some extending into early December. Because of this, what I tell my students is that the real work needs to be done in August and September of their senior year. This gives you ample time to shoot multiple takes, choose the very best ones, and go through the meticulous editing process without the stress of schoolwork piling up. By getting a head start, you can ensure your video truly represents your talent and you're not submitting something you're not 100% proud of.

1. Song Selection is Everything: As a vocal coach, I can't stress this enough: your song choice is the single most important factor. Avoid the overdone songs that every other student is singing. Find a piece that fits your voice like a glove and, more importantly, tells a compelling story. We work on not just hitting the notes, but conveying the emotion behind them. Your pre-screen isn't about vocal tricks; it's about authentic storytelling.
2. The Perfect Recording Environment: I tell my students, "Your pre-screen is only as good as its sound." You don't need a professional studio. A quiet, well-lit room with soft surfaces (like rugs or heavy curtains) to absorb echo is a perfect start. A simple but high-quality USB microphone can make all the difference. We practice microphone placement, ensuring the sound is clear and rich without distortion.
3. Filming Strategically: The performance on camera must be just as powerful as a live performance. We work on your "acting through song" — using your eyes and body language to connect with the camera. I advise my students to do a vocal warm-up before every take, just as they would for a live performance, and to take frequent breaks to rest their voice. This ensures their vocal health is maintained throughout the day of filming.

What to Expect

The waiting period can be the hardest part. What I tell my students is to submit their pre-screen and then move on. You've done the work. Now it's out of your hands. Know that your vocal talent and hours of preparation have given you the best possible chance of earning that coveted live audition.

You hit send. That's it. All those hours of rehearsal, all the takes, the moments of frustration, the edits—it's done. I know it’s hard to let go, but you should feel so proud. You took a leap of faith and put your heart on screen for the world to see. That kind of bravery is what defines an artist, and it’s a powerful victory in itself. The video is no longer just a file on your computer; it's a milestone you’ll always remember, and it’s a powerful promise you’ve made to yourself. Contact us if you need assistance! We are here to help!

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