Altos are the backbone of many choirs and musical productions. They provide the perfect balance between the high notes of the sopranos and the low notes of the basses, giving the piece its fullness and depth. However, when it comes to auditions, finding the right song can be challenging, especially for altos who are seeking to showcase their unique vocal range and style. With so many options available, it can be difficult to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the top 30 audition songs for altos. These songs have been handpicked for their ability to showcase the strengths of an alto voice, highlighting their versatility, power, and range. Whether you’re auditioning for a musical, a choir, or a talent show, these songs are sure to help you stand out and make a lasting impression. So, grab your sheet music, warm up your voice, and get ready to audition like a pro with these top 30 alto audition songs!
1. “Somewhere” by West Side Story
“Somewhere” from the classic musical “West Side Story” is a powerful ballad that showcases the emotional depth and range of an alto voice. This song tells the story of Maria’s longing for a better life, where she can find love, happiness, and peace. The melody is hauntingly beautiful and the lyrics are poignant, making it an ideal choice for altos looking to impress in their audition. The song requires a strong sense of phrasing, control, and breath support, as well as a clear, pure tone in the upper register. Singing “Somewhere” requires a deep understanding of the character and the story, and the ability to convey the emotions of the song through the voice. Overall, “Somewhere” is a classic choice for altos looking to make a lasting impression in their audition.
2. “Nobody Makes a Pass at Me” by Pins are Needles
“Nobody Makes a Pass at Me” from the musical “Pins and Needles” is a lighthearted and playful tune that showcases the comedic timing and wit of an alto voice. This song is sung by a character who is feeling neglected and overlooked, but instead of feeling sorry for herself, she decides to make light of the situation with a humorous tune. The melody is upbeat and catchy, with a strong sense of swing and rhythm, and the lyrics are witty and clever, making it a fun and entertaining choice for altos looking to show off their comedic chops. Singing “Nobody Makes a Pass at Me” requires a good sense of timing, pitch, and dynamics, as well as the ability to convey the humor and energy of the song through the voice. Overall, “Nobody Makes a Pass at Me” is a great choice for altos looking to have fun and make a memorable impression in their audition.
3. “Disneyland” by Smile
“Disneyland” from the musical “Smile” is a whimsical and dreamy tune that showcases the lighter, more playful side of an alto voice. This song is sung by a character who is imagining a magical place where all of her dreams can come true. The melody is sweet and melodic, with a soft and flowing quality, and the lyrics are imaginative and evocative, making it an ideal choice for altos looking to showcase their lighter, more ethereal side. Singing “Disneyland” requires a good sense of phrasing, breath control, and a clear, delicate tone in the upper register. The song also requires a sense of wonder and playfulness, as the character is imagining a magical place where anything is possible. Overall, “Disneyland” is a charming and appealing choice for altos looking to show their lighter, more playful side in their audition.
4. “The Music That Makes me Dance” by Funny Girl
“The Music That Makes Me Dance” from the musical “Funny Girl” is a lively and upbeat tune that showcases the powerful and confident side of an alto voice. This song is sung by the lead character, Fanny Brice, as she declares her love for the stage and the joy that performing brings her. The melody is energetic and catchy, with a strong sense of rhythm and swing, and the lyrics are bold and assertive, making it an ideal choice for altos looking to showcase their power and confidence. Singing “The Music That Makes Me Dance” requires a good sense of pitch, dynamics, and a strong, clear tone in the lower register. The song also requires a sense of confidence and joy, as the character is celebrating her love for performing. Overall, “The Music That Makes Me Dance” is a dynamic and exciting choice for altos looking to show their powerful and confident side in their audition.
5. ” What Is A Woman” by I Do! I Do!
“What Is A Woman” from the musical “I Do! I Do!” is a charming and romantic tune that showcases the tender and emotional side of an alto voice. This song is sung by a character who is reflecting on the meaning of love and the role of women in a relationship. The melody is soft and lyrical, with a delicate and flowing quality, and the lyrics are heartfelt and sincere, making it an ideal choice for altos looking to showcase their emotional depth and range. Singing “What Is A Woman” requires a good sense of phrasing, breath control, and a clear, pure tone in the upper register. The song also requires a sense of vulnerability and emotional expressiveness, as the character is reflecting on the meaning of love. Overall, “What Is A Woman” is a touching and beautiful choice for altos looking to show their emotional and tender side in their audition.
6. “It’s A Perfect Relationship” by Bells Are Ringing
“It’s A Perfect Relationship” from the musical “Bells Are Ringing” is a cheerful and upbeat tune that showcases the lighthearted and playful side of an alto voice. This song is sung by a character who is describing her ideal relationship, filled with love, laughter, and happiness. The melody is cheerful and catchy, with a strong sense of rhythm and swing, and the lyrics are upbeat and positive, making it an ideal choice for altos looking to showcase their lighter, more playful side. Singing “It’s A Perfect Relationship” requires a good sense of timing, pitch, and dynamics, as well as the ability to convey the joy and energy of the song through the voice. The song also requires a sense of optimism and playfulness, as the character is describing her ideal relationship. Overall, “It’s A Perfect Relationship” is a fun and entertaining choice for altos looking to show their lighter, more playful side in their audition.
7. “Goodbye My Love” by Ragtime
“Goodbye My Love” from the musical “Ragtime” is a powerful and emotional ballad that showcases the tender and expressive side of an alto voice. This song is sung by a character who is saying goodbye to someone she loves, as they must part ways. The melody is hauntingly beautiful, with a strong sense of phrasing and breath control, and the lyrics are poignant and moving, making it an ideal choice for altos looking to showcase their emotional depth and range. Singing “Goodbye My Love” requires a strong sense of control, breath support, and a clear, pure tone in the upper register. The song also requires a sense of vulnerability and emotional expressiveness, as the character is saying goodbye to someone she loves. Overall, “Goodbye My Love” is a touching and beautiful choice for altos looking to show their emotional and tender side in their audition.
8. “A Change in Me” by Beauty and the Beast
“A Change in Me” from the musical “Beauty and the Beast” is a powerful and inspiring ballad that showcases the emotional depth and range of an alto voice. This song is sung by the character of Belle, as she reflects on the changes she has undergone throughout her journey and the growth she has experienced. The melody is soaring and uplifting, with a strong sense of phrasing and breath control, and the lyrics are introspective and inspiring, making it an ideal choice for altos looking to showcase their emotional depth and range. Singing “A Change in Me” requires a strong sense of control, breath support, and a clear, pure tone in the upper register. The song also requires a sense of introspection and emotional expressiveness, as the character is reflecting on the changes she has undergone. Overall, “A Change in Me” is a moving and inspiring choice for altos looking to show their emotional and expressive side in their audition.
9. “Hold On” by The Secret Garden
“Hold On” from the musical “The Secret Garden” is a gentle and uplifting tune that showcases the tender and expressive side of an alto voice. This song is sung by a character who is encouraging someone to hold on, even when things are tough, and to find hope and strength within themselves. The melody is soft and flowing, with a gentle and soothing quality, and the lyrics are encouraging and hopeful, making it an ideal choice for altos looking to showcase their emotional depth and range. Singing “Hold On” requires a good sense of phrasing, breath control, and a clear, delicate tone in the upper register. The song also requires a sense of empathy and emotional expressiveness, as the character is encouraging someone to hold on and find strength. Overall, “Hold On” is a touching and beautiful choice for altos looking to show their emotional and tender side in their audition.
10. “I Want the Good Things Back” by Little Mermaid
“I Want the Good Things Back” from the musical “The Little Mermaid” is a lively and upbeat tune that showcases the powerful and confident side of an alto voice. This song is sung by the character of Ursula, as she reflects on the good things she used to have and the power she used to wield. The melody is energetic and catchy, with a strong sense of rhythm and swing, and the lyrics are bold and assertive, making it an ideal choice for altos looking to showcase their power and confidence. Singing “I Want the Good Things Back” requires a good sense of pitch, dynamics, and a strong, clear tone in the lower register. The song also requires a sense of confidence and assertiveness, as the character is reflecting on her former power and status. Overall, “I Want the Good Things Back” is a dynamic and exciting choice for altos looking to show their powerful and confident side in their audition.
11. ” The Cake I Had” by Grey Gardens
“The Cake I Had” from the musical “Grey Gardens” is a lighthearted and playful tune that showcases the comedic timing and wit of an alto voice. This song is sung by a character who is reminiscing about a cake she had in the past and the joy it brought her. The melody is upbeat and catchy, with a strong sense of swing and rhythm, and the lyrics are witty and clever, making it a fun and entertaining choice for altos looking to show off their comedic chops. Singing “The Cake I Had” requires a good sense of timing, pitch, and dynamics, as well as the ability to convey the humor and energy of the song through the voice. The song also requires a sense of playfulness and wit, as the character is reminiscing about a cake she had in the past. Overall, “The Cake I Had” is a great choice for altos looking to have fun and make a memorable impression in their audition.
12. “Anyone Can Whistle” by Anyone Can Whistle
“Anyone Can Whistle” from the musical “Anyone Can Whistle” is a lively and upbeat tune that showcases the powerful and confident side of an alto voice. This song is sung by a character who is encouraging others to see the world in a different way and to find joy and happiness in life. The melody is energetic and catchy, with a strong sense of rhythm and swing, and the lyrics are bold and assertive, making it an ideal choice for altos looking to showcase their power and confidence. Singing “Anyone Can Whistle” requires a good sense of pitch, dynamics, and a strong, clear tone in the lower register. The song also requires a sense of confidence and joy, as the character is encouraging others to find happiness and see the world in a different way. Overall, “Anyone Can Whistle” is a dynamic and exciting choice for altos looking to show their powerful and confident side in their audition.
13. “Cabaret” by Cabaret
“Cabaret” from the musical “Cabaret” is a lively and upbeat tune that showcases the energetic and confident side of an alto voice. This song is sung by the Emcee of the Kit Kat Klub, as he invites the audience to come and enjoy the show. The melody is energetic and catchy, with a strong sense of rhythm and swing, and the lyrics are bold and assertive, making it an ideal choice for altos looking to showcase their power and confidence. Singing “Cabaret” requires a good sense of timing, pitch, and dynamics, as well as the ability to convey the energy and excitement of the song through the voice. The song also requires a sense of confidence and charm, as the character is inviting the audience to come and enjoy the show. Overall, “Cabaret” is a dynamic and exciting choice for altos looking to show their powerful and confident side in their audition.
14. “Teaching Third Grade” by Ruthless
“Teaching Third Grade” from the musical “Ruthless” is a lighthearted and playful tune that showcases the comedic timing and wit of an alto voice. This song is sung by a character who is teaching third graders and finding the humor in the situation. The melody is upbeat and catchy, with a strong sense of swing and rhythm, and the lyrics are witty and clever, making it a fun and entertaining choice for altos looking to show off their comedic chops. Singing “Teaching Third Grade” requires a good sense of timing, pitch, and dynamics, as well as the ability to convey the humor and energy of the song through the voice. The song also requires a sense of playfulness and wit, as the character is finding the humor in teaching third graders. Overall, “Teaching Third Grade” is a great choice for altos looking to have fun and make a memorable impression in their audition.
15. “How ‘Bout a Dance” by Bonnie and Clyde
“How ‘Bout a Dance” from the musical “Bonnie and Clyde” is a lively and upbeat tune that showcases the energetic and confident side of an alto voice. This song is sung by the character of Bonnie Parker, as she invites Clyde Barrow to dance with her. The melody is energetic and catchy, with a strong sense of rhythm and swing, and the lyrics are bold and assertive, making it an ideal choice for altos looking to showcase their power and confidence. Singing “How ‘Bout a Dance” requires a good sense of timing, pitch, and dynamics, as well as the ability to convey the energy and excitement of the song through the voice. The song also requires a sense of confidence and charm, as the character is inviting someone to dance with her. Overall, “How ‘Bout a Dance” is a dynamic and exciting choice for altos looking to show their powerful and confident side in their audition.
16. “It’s A Business” by Curtains
“It’s A Business” from the musical “Curtains” is a lively and upbeat tune that showcases the energetic and confident side of an alto voice. This song is sung by a character who is reflecting on the cutthroat nature of show business and the importance of making a good impression. The melody is energetic and catchy, with a strong sense of rhythm and swing, and the lyrics are bold and assertive, making it an ideal choice for altos looking to showcase their power and confidence. Singing “It’s A Business” requires a good sense of timing, pitch, and dynamics, as well as the ability to convey the energy and excitement of the song through the voice. The song also requires a sense of confidence and assertiveness, as the character is reflecting on the cutthroat nature of show business. Overall, “It’s A Business” is a dynamic and exciting choice for altos looking to show their powerful and confident side in their audition.
17. “Ireland” by Legally Blonde
“Ireland” from the musical “Legally Blonde” is a lively and upbeat tune that showcases the energetic and confident side of an alto voice. This song is sung by the character of Elle Woods, as she reflects on her heritage and her love for her country. The melody is energetic and catchy, with a strong sense of rhythm and swing, and the lyrics are bold and assertive, making it an ideal choice for altos looking to showcase their power and confidence. Singing “Ireland” requires a good sense of timing, pitch, and dynamics, as well as the ability to convey the energy and excitement of the song through the voice. The song also requires a sense of pride and confidence, as the character is reflecting on her heritage and her love for her country. Overall, “Ireland” is a dynamic and exciting choice for altos looking to show their powerful and confident side in their audition.
18. “Special” by Avenue Q
“Special” from the musical “Avenue Q” is a lighthearted and playful tune that showcases the comedic timing and wit of an alto voice. This song is sung by a character who is feeling left out and is searching for their purpose in life. The melody is upbeat and catchy, with a strong sense of swing and rhythm, and the lyrics are witty and clever, making it a fun and entertaining choice for altos looking to show off their comedic chops. Singing “Special” requires a good sense of timing, pitch, and dynamics, as well as the ability to convey the humor and energy of the song through the voice. The song also requires a sense of playfulness and wit, as the character is searching for their purpose in life. Overall, “Special” is a great choice for altos looking to have fun and make a memorable impression in their audition.
19. “It’s a Helluva Way to Run a Love Affair” by Plain and Fancy
“It’s a Helluva Way to Run a Love Affair” from the musical “Plain and Fancy” is a lively and upbeat tune that showcases the energetic and confident side of an alto voice. This song is sung by a character who is reflecting on the ups and downs of love and the challenges that come with relationships. The melody is energetic and catchy, with a strong sense of rhythm and swing, and the lyrics are bold and assertive, making it an ideal choice for altos looking to showcase their power and confidence. Singing “It’s a Helluva Way to Run a Love Affair” requires a good sense of timing, pitch, and dynamics, as well as the ability to convey the energy and excitement of the song through the voice. The song also requires a sense of confidence and assertiveness, as the character is reflecting on the challenges of love. Overall, “It’s a Helluva Way to Run a Love Affair” is a dynamic and exciting choice for altos looking to show their powerful and confident side in their audition.
20. “A Mother Doesn’t Matter Anymore” by Bye Bye Birdie
“A Mother Doesn’t Matter Anymore” from the musical “Bye Bye Birdie” is a touching and emotional tune that showcases the tender and expressive side of an alto voice. This song is sung by a character who is reflecting on her relationship with her mother and how she has grown up and changed over the years. The melody is soft and flowing, with a gentle and soothing quality, and the lyrics are poignant and touching, making it an ideal choice for altos looking to showcase their emotional depth and range. Singing “A Mother Doesn’t Matter Anymore” requires a good sense of phrasing, breath control, and a clear, delicate tone in the upper register. The song also requires a sense of empathy and emotional expressiveness, as the character is reflecting on her relationship with her mother. Overall, “A Mother Doesn’t Matter Anymore” is a touching and beautiful choice for altos looking to show their emotional and tender side in their audition.
21. ” I Ain’t Down Yet” by The Unsinkable Molly Brown
“I Ain’t Down Yet” from the musical “The Unsinkable Molly Brown” is a lively and upbeat tune that showcases the energetic and confident side of an alto voice. This song is sung by the character of Molly Brown, as she reflects on the challenges she has faced in her life and her determination to overcome them. The melody is energetic and catchy, with a strong sense of rhythm and swing, and the lyrics are bold and assertive, making it an ideal choice for altos looking to showcase their power and confidence. Singing “I Ain’t Down Yet” requires a good sense of timing, pitch, and dynamics, as well as the ability to convey the energy and excitement of the song through the voice. The song also requires a sense of determination and confidence, as the character is reflecting on the challenges she has faced in her life. Overall, “I Ain’t Down Yet” is a dynamic and exciting choice for altos looking to show their powerful and confident side in their audition.
22. “A Trip to the Library” by She Loves Me
“A Trip to the Library” from the musical “She Loves Me” is a charming and lighthearted tune that showcases the comedic timing and wit of an alto voice. This song is sung by a character who is excited about going to the library to find a new book to read. The melody is upbeat and catchy, with a strong sense of swing and rhythm, and the lyrics are witty and clever, making it a fun and entertaining choice for altos looking to show off their comedic chops. Singing “A Trip to the Library” requires a good sense of timing, pitch, and dynamics, as well as the ability to convey the humor and energy of the song through the voice. The song also requires a sense of playfulness and wit, as the character is excited about going to the library. Overall, “A Trip to the Library” is a great choice for altos looking to have fun and make a memorable impression in their audition.
23. “Poor Unfortunate Souls” by The Little Mermaid
“Poor Unfortunate Souls” from the musical “The Little Mermaid” is a dark and dramatic tune that showcases the emotional depth and range of an alto voice. This song is sung by the character of Ursula, as she tries to convince Ariel to give up her voice and make a deal with her. The melody is haunting and intense, with a strong sense of tension and drama, and the lyrics are powerful and evocative, making it an ideal choice for altos looking to showcase their emotional depth and range. Singing “Poor Unfortunate Souls” requires a good sense of phrasing, breath control, and a clear, powerful tone in the lower register. The song also requires a sense of dramatic intensity and emotional expressiveness, as the character is trying to convince Ariel to make a deal with her. Overall, “Poor Unfortunate Souls” is a dark and dramatic choice for altos looking to show their emotional and powerful side in their audition.
24. “The Winner Takes it All” by Mamma Mia!
“The Winner Takes it All” from the musical “Mamma Mia!” is a powerful and emotional tune that showcases the tender and expressive side of an alto voice. This song is sung by the character of Donna, as she reflects on the end of her relationship with her former husband. The melody is soft and flowing, with a gentle and soothing quality, and the lyrics are poignant and touching, making it an ideal choice for altos looking to showcase their emotional depth and range. Singing “The Winner Takes it All” requires a good sense of phrasing, breath control, and a clear, delicate tone in the upper register. The song also requires a sense of empathy and emotional expressiveness, as the character is reflecting on the end of her relationship. Overall, “The Winner Takes it All” is a touching and beautiful choice for altos looking to show their emotional and tender side in their audition.
25. “What Did I Ever See in Him” by Bye Bye Birdie
“What Did I Ever See in Him?” from the musical “Bye Bye Birdie” is a lively and upbeat tune that showcases the energetic and confident side of an alto voice. This song is sung by a character who is reflecting on a relationship that has ended and wondering what she ever saw in her former partner. The melody is energetic and catchy, with a strong sense of rhythm and swing, and the lyrics are bold and assertive, making it an ideal choice for altos looking to showcase their power and confidence. Singing “What Did I Ever See in Him?” requires a good sense of timing, pitch, and dynamics, as well as the ability to convey the energy and excitement of the song through the voice. The song also requires a sense of confidence and assertiveness, as the character is reflecting on a failed relationship. Overall, “What Did I Ever See in Him?” is a dynamic and exciting choice for altos looking to show their powerful and confident side in their audition.
26. “Kiss Her Now” by Dear World
“Kiss Her Now” from the musical “Dear World” is a charming and lighthearted tune that showcases the comedic timing and wit of an alto voice. This song is sung by a character who is trying to convince another character to kiss someone they love. The melody is upbeat and catchy, with a strong sense of swing and rhythm, and the lyrics are witty and clever, making it a fun and entertaining choice for altos looking to show off their comedic chops. Singing “Kiss Her Now” requires a good sense of timing, pitch, and dynamics, as well as the ability to convey the humor and energy of the song through the voice. The song also requires a sense of playfulness and wit, as the character is trying to convince someone to take action. Overall, “Kiss Her Now” is a great choice for altos looking to have fun and make a memorable impression in their audition.
27. “Times Are Hard for Dreamers” by Amelie
“Times Are Hard for Dreamers” from the musical “Amelie” is a touching and emotional tune that showcases the tender and expressive side of an alto voice. This song is sung by the character of Amelie, as she reflects on the challenges she has faced in life and her determination to keep pursuing her dreams. The melody is soft and flowing, with a gentle and soothing quality, and the lyrics are poignant and touching, making it an ideal choice for altos looking to showcase their emotional depth and range. Singing “Times Are Hard for Dreamers” requires a good sense of phrasing, breath control, and a clear, delicate tone in the upper register. The song also requires a sense of empathy and emotional expressiveness, as the character is reflecting on the challenges she has faced in life. Overall, “Times Are Hard for Dreamers” is a touching and beautiful choice for altos looking to show their emotional and tender side in their audition.
28. “All that Jazz” by Chicago
“All That Jazz” from the musical “Chicago” is a lively and upbeat tune that showcases the energetic and confident side of an alto voice. This song is sung by the character of Velma Kelly, as she reflects on her life as a performer and the excitement and glamour of the jazz scene. The melody is energetic and catchy, with a strong sense of rhythm and swing, and the lyrics are bold and assertive, making it an ideal choice for altos looking to showcase their power and confidence. Singing “All That Jazz” requires a good sense of timing, pitch, and dynamics, as well as the ability to convey the energy and excitement of the song through the voice. The song also requires a sense of confidence and assertiveness, as the character is reflecting on her life as a performer. Overall, “All That Jazz” is a dynamic and exciting choice for altos looking to show their powerful and confident side in their audition.
29. “Another Night at Darryl’s” by Witches of Eastwick
“Another Night at Darryl’s” from the musical “The Witches of Eastwick” is a playful and mischievous tune that showcases the comedic timing and wit of an alto voice. This song is sung by a character who is reflecting on a night at a friend’s house and the wild and crazy things that happened. The melody is upbeat and catchy, with a strong sense of swing and rhythm, and the lyrics are witty and clever, making it a fun and entertaining choice for altos looking to show off their comedic chops. Singing “Another Night at Darryl’s” requires a good sense of timing, pitch, and dynamics, as well as the ability to convey the humor and energy of the song through the voice. The song also requires a sense of playfulness and wit, as the character is reflecting on a wild night. Overall, “Another Night at Darryl’s” is a great choice for altos looking to have fun and make a memorable impression in their audition.
30. “I Want to Go to Hollywood” by Grand Hotel
“I Want to Go to Hollywood” from the musical “Grand Hotel” is a lively and upbeat tune that showcases the energetic and confident side of an alto voice. This song is sung by a character who is dreaming of a life in Hollywood and the excitement and glamour of the movie industry. The melody is energetic and catchy, with a strong sense of rhythm and swing, and the lyrics are bold and assertive, making it an ideal choice for altos looking to showcase their power and confidence. Singing “I Want to Go to Hollywood” requires a good sense of timing, pitch, and dynamics, as well as the ability to convey the energy and excitement of the song through the voice. The song also requires a sense of confidence and assertiveness, as the character is dreaming of a life in Hollywood. Overall, “I Want to Go to Hollywood” is a dynamic and exciting choice for altos looking to show their powerful and confident side in their audition.
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