What is it about some musicians and performers who consistently achieve success? Are they the best performers? Did they have the best teachers? Do they have the best professional contacts and connections? Is it just coincidence? Of course not! Dr. Steve Zegree of Western Michigan University, choral arranger and conductor of Western Michigan's Gold Company has developed this practical guide for performers, students, teachers and parents which offers fundamental philosophies and concepts that are essential to a person's growth and development and will contribute to a successful professional life in music. More than just the basics, more than a prescribed curriculum, and more than just getting in front of an audience to go through the motions of what you did in rehearsal - call it the Wow Factor - there is something for everyone in this book! And, as a special bonus, Chapter 8 offers interviews with great performers from all facets of the music industry including: Simon Carrington, Nick Lachey, Ward Swingle, Roger Emerson, Mac Huff, Liza Minnelli and many more! Topics include: Chapter 1: The Wow Factor: The Framework Chapter 2: How to Practice and Rehearse for The Wow Factor Chapter 3: How to Prepare a Wow Audition Chapter 4: Ifs, Ands or Buts - and Rules to Live By Chapter 5: Don't Go to Your Face: Putting the Polish on Your Performance Chapter 6: How to Educate and Entertain Chapter 7: How to Win on NBC's Clash of the Choirs Chapter 8: Wow Perspectives: The Interviews Chapter 9: Coda