By Cynthia Jessup
Sara Sturm, 18, wowed the judges on American Idol. A senior at Westfield High School in Chantilly, Sturm is reaching for the stars. Like all stars, they have a beginning, and Sturm lets us in on her experience during her audition.
How did you feel during your audition?
During my audition, I honestly blanked out. I was so nervous [that] I can barely remember a single thing from the audition. That’s why watching it seems so unreal—because I don’t remember half of what I said! But all in all, I felt amazing during my audition. Definitely one of the coolest experiences of my life.
What will you be doing in Hollywood?
Basically, Hollywood week is a whole week of more auditions. But you have to make it past the first round, which seems the most nerve-wracking in my opinion, and it’s called the “line of 10” round where you sing for a minute at most and then the judges decide your fate. So it’ll be intense.
Have you had any special training to sing, or is it a hobby?
I’ve never had any special training. It runs in the family. My family has been singing for generations, and it was passed down to me. I’ve been singing since I could talk and [have been] performing since around fifth grade.
How did you feel when you got your ticket to go to Hollywood?
I felt amazing when I got my ticket to go to Hollywood. Not a lot of people were let through on my day of auditions, so to be one of the people the three talented judges sent through was a dream come true. I felt like I had finally started my journey to being the performer I want to be.
What advice/encouragement would you give someone pursuing music?
I would say no matter what happens, never give up on your passion. This business is all about getting no’s until you finally get that successful yes. All you have to do is just be your amazing, talented self and keep going until you achieve your goal.
Is there still a lot of hype in the aftermath, or are you still stunned?
I’m still amazed that I was on TV. Lots of people have been recognizing me in local areas, and it’s all so exciting and surreal, so I’m definitely still stunned.
What kind of music do you like to sing?
I sing pop/R&B, and I like to add a little jazzy spin on the pop songs I sing.
What message do you want to send in your music?
The message I want to send in my music is that it’s okay to be yourself because being yourself is what will shine through the most. Never let anyone else tell you who you are except for you because you are unique and special. Basically, I want people to be inspired by my music to go after their dreams, whatever that may be, and that they never lose sight of who they are along the way.
