16 Bars

No, I have not been hopping from place to place for cocktails. I'm talking about music bars here. Anyone (take, for instance, my theater fanatic daughter) who auditions for musicals knows exactly what "16 Bars" means. It is the measurement of the very short period of time you have to prove to complete strangers that you are more worthy than the 358 or 3586 other people they will see of being in their musical. "16 bars" is tiny. In what most of us would consider just a snippet of a song, the musical theater auditionee has to pour every bit of personality, musicality, and emotion he or she has. The moment is over practically before it begins, but it is a crucial moment nonetheless--a make or break moment.
 
While most of us don't have to "sing for our supper," we are all called upon to sell ourselves quite often, and in many situations, we don't really have any more than "16 bars." The parallel is obvious when we go on job interviews, but it also applies when meeting new coworkers or new teachers or new friends. People (not unlike casting directors) make quick decisions when they meet people--does this person fit, does this person move me, can this person handle what needs to be handled, even the low notes?
 
As the singer does with the 16 bars, we must tell our story efficiently (and, for us, without benefit of music), because the moment is over practically before it begins. When I watch my daughter find just the right 16 bars for each audition, I am reminded that our "16 bars" can change every day--they just need to represent us well--and quickly.
 
So, whether you're a singer or not, go ahead--choose your "16 bars" wisely. And once you've picked them, give it everything you've got, and sing 'em out!