Tips for Musical Directing
Make it Sparkle Video with Mitch Samu
Musical Director
9:52 (runtime)
Director’s Notes
Musical Director Mitch Samu asserts that it's crucial to adjust the keys of songs in a musical to suit the talent of the performers, even if it requires extra work. This approach ensures the performers are set up for success, rather than struggling to reach notes beyond their range.
Understanding Your Talent: Mitch emphasizes the importance of understanding your performers' abilities. Broadway shows often have songs written for mature performers; hence it's important to adapt these songs for young performers in high schools or colleges who may not have reached the same level of vocal development.
Adapting the Score: Mitch advocates for using the technology available to adapt the score of the musical to the appropriate key for the performers. While this may require additional work, such as rewriting parts, Mitch argues that the final product is worth the effort.
Stretch and Grow: Despite the need for key adjustments, Mitch also encourages performers to stretch and grow their capabilities, but not to the point of setting them up for failure.
Digital Tools to Adapt Scores: In the modern digital age, Mitch mentions various software applications that can scan scores and adjust the keys. He cites Sibelius and Finale as examples of software that can assist with this process.
Find Keys That Work: Mitch's ultimate tip is to find keys that work for the performers. He argues that the original composers of a musical would prefer a show to be successful and enjoyable rather than sticking strictly to the original keys, potentially compromising the quality of the performance.
About Mitch Samu
Mitch is blessed and grateful to be a part of Passing Strange at Vanguard Theater. His Broadway and National Tour credits include: “The Lion King,” “Little Shop of Horrors,” and “Saturday Night Fever.” Original Musicals include: “Motherhood: The Agony & The Ecstasy,” “ A Kiss For My Daughter A Kiss for My Father,” and “Jesus A Life.” He is currently the Music Director at Hunterdon Hills Playhouse and FUMC Freehold. Mitch wants to thank his wife Kristen, and children, Willow and Orion for their unending support.