20 Great Audition Songs for Altos

If you’re looking for audition songs suitable for an alto range, we’ve compiled a list of classic and contemporary options for you. Whether you’re working on giving your audition book a total refresh, or you’re just looking to find something new, these 20 audition songs offer a variety of stories and styles, so you can choose the right ones for your voice and type. 

Casting directors want to see you take a journey with your audition song, both vocally and emotionally. This means you’ll have to cut down the song to the right length while still retaining enough of the story for it to be an interesting audition. If you’re not sure how to cut your audition song, try to find a section that has a beginning, middle, and end, story-wise. This might be as easy as starting at the bridge and singing to the end or it might mean hiring someone who knows how to cut the piece for you, so you can jump around the sheet music as you choose. 

With that, let’s get started! 

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Sugar Cloud - Ride the Cyclone (2016)

Music by Jacob Richmond and Brooke Maxwell
Uptempo, Dramatic

A unique option for a teen or young adult, “Sugar Cloud” combines teenage nihilism with unabashed determination to enjoy life, regardless of its problems. Plus, the pop vibe of this number really lets you jam out in the room. 

What Did I Have That I Don’t Have - On a Clear Day You Can See Forever (1965)

Music by Burton Lane and Alan Jay Lerner
Ballad, Dramatic

Sometimes it can be tricky to bring in a “woe is me” cut for an audition. Although this song is a classic with a beautiful melody, it’s important to remember to play the arc of the number, so it’s not just you singing “poor me” to the table, which can get old quickly. Try to make some discoveries in the song and find if there are any moments of levity, so it’s not so one-note. 

The Way He Makes Me Feel - Yentl (1983)

Music by Michel Legrand, Alan Bergman, and Marilyn Bergman
Ballad, Dramatic

You may have heard to steer clear of songs by legends like Judy Garland and Barbra Streisand, since their mark is so indelible and nearly impossible to compare with. In my opinion, there’s plenty of room to be able to sing songs of theirs if you feel a strong connection to the piece. 

This song, from the classic film Yentl, brings an intense and intimate energy that will make the folks behind the table lean forward when done well. Pensive yet passionate, this number is a great vehicle for a powerful actor to create a memorable moment in the room.

There Will Be a Miracle - See What I Wanna See (2005)

Music by Michael John LaChiusa
Uptempo, Dramatic

If you want to bring in a song that showcases strength and determination, the message behind this one is simple but powerful. It sits in a great spot for a strong mix, and the structure of the song is well-suited to providing a clear beginning, middle, and end. 

Maybe It’s My Turn Now - Schmigadoon Season 2 (2023)

Music by Cinco Paul
Ballad, Dramatic

The great thing about Schmigadoon is that it parodies so many beloved songs so well. This one’s a dupe for “Maybe This Time” from Cabaret, which may be one of the few songs that I’d recommend you avoid putting in your book, since it’s been a go-to dramatic ballad for many, many years. Although Schmigadoon is a comedy, this song isn’t meant to be played for laughs.

Colored Lights - The Rink (1984)

Music by John Kander and Fred Ebb
Ballad, Dramatic

Originated by Liza Minnelli, “Colored Lights” is reflective and wistful, hearkening back to the memories and hopes of the past. The verses also give an opportunity to find some humor, so you can offer a multifaceted performance. 

Nobody - Betty Blue Eyes (2011)

Music by George Stiles and Anthony Drewe
Uptempo, Dramatic

There are some audition songs that are great ways to introduce yourself to casting; this is one of those. “Nobody” is one of the showstoppers of Betty Blue Eyes. Fun, high-energy, and full of charisma, it’s belty without being “screlty” – AKA you won’t be screaming at the table, and they’ll probably thank you for it. 

I Hate Musicals - Ruthless (1992)

Music by Marvin Laird and Joel Paley
Uptempo, Comedic

If you’re looking for something irreverent, crotchety, and somewhat tongue-in-cheek, this one’s a good fit for a character-driven 32 bars. Although it does get a little talk-y, there’s still enough to show some vocal prowess. However, its cynical tone may make it better suited to older vocalists.

You Gotta Be You - Up Here (2023)

Music by Robert Lopez and Kristen Anderson-Lopez
Uptempo, Dramatic

Up Here began its life as a stage show but was adapted into a limited series for Hulu. This number has pop/rock energy that fits into the same world as a lot of contemporary pop musicals. If you're looking to deliver a dynamic and powerful performance in your audition, this is an excellent choice.

After All of This and Everything - Freaky Friday (2016)

Music by Tom Kitt and Brian Yorkey
Ballad, Dramatic

This sweet ballad is best-suited to those at the right age to be playing the mom roles. It captures the emotional complexity of parenthood and allows the performer to strike the perfect combination of strength and vulnerability. It’s a great choice for a talented actor with a powerful mix.

Through the Mountain - Floyd Collins (1996)

Music by Adam Guettel
Ballad, Dramatic 

If your voice lends well to folk music, “Through the Mountain” is a great option to show off your unique vocal timbre and style. It sings like a lullaby, and the character’s emotional journey makes the story of the song quite engaging. Don’t be fooled by the poetic lyrics; this song has a lot to say. Although it can easily be sung out of context, the character of Nellie is so interesting, it’s a good reason to keep the song in context with what happens in Floyd Collins.  

That Mister Man of Mine - Dames at Sea (1968)

Music by Jim Wise, George Haimsohn, and Robin Miller
Ballad, Comedic

Although the lyrics to this one aren’t “ha-ha” funny, this is a great vehicle for a performer with a big voice and a big personality. The show is a goofy parody of 42nd Street, and this number is sung by the character who’s a foil of Dorothy Brock. Played by Lesli Margherita in the Broadway revival, it’s a great chance to show off some vocal and physical comedy. 

The Usher from the Mezzanine - Fade Out – Fade In (1964)

Music by Jule Styne, Betty Comden, and Adolph Green
Uptempo, Dramatic

This number flies by fast, making it a great option for a 16 or 32 bar cut. Originated by Carol Burnett, it’s an ideal alternative to the slightly more trodden “Look What Happened to Mabel” from Mack & Mabel. 

Momma’s Blues - Starlight Express (1984)

Music by Andrew Lloyd Webber
Uptempo, Comedic

This song’s lyrics are a catchy nod to how the blues work. Simple, funny, and great for a quick audition cut. And if you can riff, this number provides plenty of freedom to show what you can do in the room. 

At the Old Majestic Nickel Matinee - Some Like It Hot (2022)

Music by Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman
Ballad, Dramatic

This song isn’t wildly showy, but the melody is beautiful and the story compelling. Sometimes it’s great to bring in a song that’s more interesting than vocally impressive, and this is a poignant option that will position you as a leading lady. 

The Truth Is - The Violet Hour (2022)

Music by Will Reynolds
Ballad, Dramatic

This sultry track comes from a studio recording of a show that hasn’t yet been fully produced but contains plenty of promising material. If you’re looking to portray a bombshell and showcase some powerful vocals, this lounge song is a strong audition option.

I Always, Always Never Get My Man - Schmigadoon Season 1 (2021)

Music by Cinco Paul
Uptempo, Comedic

This song is Schmigadoon’s answer to “Always True to You (in My Fashion)” from Kiss Me Kate. It’s got the same clever verse style and big finish, but it’s a little shorter, so it may be easier to craft a 16 or 32 bar out of it. 

Once You Lose Your Heart - Me and My Girl (1937)

Music by Noel Gay, Douglas Furber, and L. Arthur Rose
Ballad, Dramatic

Me and My Girl premiered on the West End in 1937 but didn’t make it to Broadway until 1986, where it enjoyed a cushy three year run. If you need a golden age number that doesn’t require you to sing up to the rafters, this pretty ballad is a great option. 

It Wasn’t Meant to Happen - Cut from Follies (1971)

Music by Stephen Sondheim
Ballad, Dramatic

This song’s melody feels so quintessentially Sondheim, but because it was cut from Follies, it’s less popular than some of his more famous female mid-range ballads. It’s a slow burn of a breakup song, a great character piece if you’re looking to play someone who doesn’t reveal their feelings easily. 

Spotlight - Everybody’s Talkin’ About Jamie (2017)

Music by Dan Gillespie Sells and Tom MacRae
Ballad, Dramatic

If you’re looking for a mid-range pop ballad with a great message, this number is a strong contender. And it doesn’t demand that you finish with a money note, but if you’d like to opt up on the ending, there’s room for it. 

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When it comes to voice types, true altos are rare to come by. But if you’re most comfortable on the lower end of your range, then this selection of songs offers some great options when auditioning for a variety of shows and characters. If you’re not sure whether a song is suited to your voice and type, it’s helpful to work with a teacher or coach who might be able to provide some guidance on what material best fits your voice.

Conversely, if you find a song you love but you’re not sure if it suits your type, remember that a fresh take on a piece can make the people behind the table sit up a little straighter. Enjoy the freedom of your artistry and make bold choices in the room with your material and storytelling! Casting will thank you for it.