05/12/2026
A few folks are not clear how the "mentor" aspect of "Puttin on the Ritz" works. Our purpose is to give our contestants advice on how to improve their performances. Due to time constraints, we cannot "mentor" everyone; we pick those who are "quick fixes". This is meant to help the performer, not belittle or make fun of them.
We are not recreating "Simon Cowell". We must tell/show the performers what they're doing wrong in order to help them do it right.
We also briefly work with the performers during auditions.
This videon from WJXT's "Oh Say Can You Sing" competition will give you an expanded view of the coaching process and how many times there are immediate results. Many in the audience enjoyed seeing the instant improvement in the performances.
Enjoy!
Highlights of McDuffie vocal coaching on the WJXT talent competition in Jacksonville, Florida...