HOW TO EDIT YOUR AUDITION/SEMI-FINAL BACKING TRACKS

There are many user friendly music editing software options out there. If you have never used music editing software, give yourself plenty of time for trial and error. The first few attempts tend to be time consuming, but it gets better with practice.

One very easy and free editing software is Audacity.  You can download a copy of AUDACITY by clicking here.

In order to edit your song in Audacity, you will need to have the song in WAV format.  Here are a few options for software programs that convert various music file formats. Most trials are free and will allow you enough conversions to fit your audition preparation needs. 

AUDIO CONVERTER - this program converts from MP3 or WMA formats to WAV.

MP4 CONVERTER - this program will allow you to convert audio files from iTunes to WAV

FREE RIP - this program will allow you to covert songs directly from a CD

THE CLARK CENTER ASSOCIATION IS NOT AFFILIATED WITH ANY OF THE SOFTWARE VENDORS MENTIONED AND YOU ARE NOT REQUIRED TO PURCHASE ANY SOFTWARE OR PAY ANY EDITING FEES TO BE CONSIDERED FOR THIS COMPETITION. 

These are simply suggestions for you to explore which will give you options for editing your songs yourself thereby saving you money on professional editing fees. If you do not feel comfortable editing your song, please contact your vocal coach or a local music studio for rates. For example one of our CCS4S supporters, Rhythm & Keys in Grover Beach, has a sound studio and editing/recording options. (You can call (805) 473-9800 for rates.) There are plenty of music schools/recording studios in the area. Check your yellow pages for details.

Once you have downloaded AUDACITY (or another program) and converted your file to the WAV format, open the file in the editing program and experiment with different ways of cutting your song. Most software programs have a help menu, if you need support.

Part of the CCS4S mission is to help our local performing artist and musicians learn and grow. Basic music editing skills are part of this growth and a good skill for anybody working with music to have under their belt. The Clark Center Association hopes your audition preparation will be a positive learning experience and look foward to seeing the fruits of your labor in August!