I am applying for an acting program and one of the audition requirements are to sing a capella. I have experiencing acting but I am a horrible singer. I can match low keys when much effort is put forth but cannot just pick-up and start singing randomly. I have a low voice to and cannot get high notes. Is it something innate to biology or something to be learned with practice? Lastly, to anyone with theatre experience: how big of a role doea singing play for a future actor? Is it that necessary?
Well, first off, as a very experienced singer and actress, i can tell you that if you're going for roles on broadway, a large majority of them are singing. However, musicals, unlike opera, do not always require a great singing talent. If you can stay on key and learn music quickly you should be fine (in fact, character voices are rarely that great). As for advice on singing, try singing scales (do you have a keyboard or piano handy?), this will not only help to excercise your voice and imprint notes into your memory, but it will also most likely increase your range. But don't worry, if you don't have a huge range it's not really a huge deal. If you are REALLY serious about improving your singing skills, I suggest getting a vocal coach, they work wonders! Good Luck!