29 Best Musical Theatre Audition Songs For Sopranos
If you have a higher vocal range, there are so many possibilities for your auditions. Some songs won’t properly display this range, which is why if you’re a soprano, you’ll want to pick a song that does your vocals justice.
Here are the best musical theatre audition songs for sopranos.
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“In My Dreams” by Christy Altomare
Song Year: 2017
If you're looking for a piece to sing when trying out for a leading role, “In My Dreams,” featured in the musical Anastasia, is your best pick. It’s relatively modern, but it emulates the stirring beats of classic musical theatre tunes from decades ago.
The lyrics describe Anya recounting her limited memories, unaware of her origins as the lost princess. Its slower tempo enhances how she feels in her situation, making it an excellent challenge for sopranos looking to leave an impression on the casting directors.
“I Could Have Danced All Night” by Julie Andrews
Song Year: 1956
Can’t find a tune to showcase your musical skills for a more light-hearted role or show? One of the best musical theatre audition songs for a soprano you should consider practicing is “I Could Have Danced All Night” from My Fair Lady.
Sung by leading lady Eliza Doolittle, “I Could Have Danced All Night” narrates her excitement about dancing earlier in the day and how it keeps her from sleeping. This classic song’s upbeat tempo is infectious and is sure to leave an audience smiling.
“Flowers” by Eva Noblezada
Song Year: 2019
“Flowers” from Hadestown is sung by Eurydice, who laments about the life she threw away, from flowery pastures to her love, Orpheous, slowly forgetting her past while in Hades' grasp. Tragic yet sweet, this song emphasizes Eurydice's belief that she brought her situation upon herself, hoping that someone will help her escape her fate.
“The Light in the Piazza” by Kelli O'Hara
Song Year: 2005
“The Light in the Piazza,” from the show of the same name, is a touching anthem that shows vulnerability and love in a performer’s voice. Sung by Clara Johnson to her mother Margaret, she reflects on her romantic desire for Fabrizio, comparing him to light.
Sopranos who don't struggle with higher notes will find this song easy to learn but should practice it several times to match each note perfectly.
“Will He Like Me?” by Barbara Cook
Song Year: 1963
Many quality audition songs for sopranos revolve around a character’s desire for romance and the obstacles they face, and “Will He Like Me?” from She Loves Me is no exception. In this song, Amalia Balash prepares for a date with her “dear friend,” wondering if she's good enough for him as her introverted insecurities flood her mind.
Despite being a song delving into a character’s insecurities and fear of judgment, it features a simple yet effective melody for singers to memorize.
“Astonishing” by Mindi Dickstein
Song Year: 2005
“Astonishing” is a bold and confident song that lifts any vocalist’s spirits when all seems lost. Featured in the musical Little Women, Jo March sings about finding her place in the world after watching her relationships get challenged, specifically after rejecting a marriage proposal.
Dickstein’s lyrics embody the feelings of an independent, optimistic dreamer looking for something better, acting as the finale to the musical’s first act.
“Far From the Home I Love” by Julia Migenes
Song Year: 1964
Originating from the classic musical Fiddler on the Roof, “Far From the Home I Love”is layered symbolism you can identify after reading between the lines of its lyrics. It has a bittersweet tone and a sweeping, slow tempo.
In this song, Hodel tells her father, Tevye, that she can't be without the man she loves after getting exiled. She also expresses how much she cares about her family, no matter how far she goes.
“I Still Believe” by Erin Mackey
Song Year: 2015
“I Still Believe” from Amazing Grace is brimming with empathy. In this song, John Newton reads a note from his old friend, Mary Catlett, expressing how she believes he’s still the same person she always knew, despite the choices he made throughout his life. It’s a shorter number with higher notes, but it retains its impact through the singer’s passionate performance.
“One Boy” by Susan Watson
Song Year: 1960
Songs revolving around romance are nothing new to musical theatre, but “One Boy” is a great sentimental number that stands out from similar fare. Featured in Bye Bye Birdie, it's sung by teenager Kim MacAfee, who still loves her boyfriend, Hugo, and is certain he's the only one for her.
It’s best suited for adult and teenage sopranos who can hit higher notes while retaining character in a youthful yet versatile vocal range.
“Soon” by Ramona Mallory
Song Year: 2010
Although this song from A Little Night Music is performed by three characters as it continues, sopranos can sing the beginning section without worrying about harmonizing with others. It's sung by Anne Egerman, a young woman who tells her older husband how she'll eventually have sex with him.
This song requires a strong vocal performance, with hints of vulnerability and uncertainty, reflecting the character’s inexperience with intimacy.