DEAR ABBY: I have to choose between chorus and art for an elective for high school in the fall. I have been told I have an excellent voice, but I'm scared to death about auditioning for chorus. I have little artistic ability -- just enough to get me through life.
I don't know what to do. I want to be in chorus, but as I said, I am terrified of having to try out. Please give me some advice. -- ANGEL GIRL IN CHARLOTTE, N.C.
DEAR ANGEL GIRL: You have to decide whether to take advantage of the fact that you have "an excellent voice" or spend the rest of your life singing by yourself in the shower.
One way to overcome fear is to confront it in stages. In other words, start by singing for a few friends. If there's a choir at your church, ask if you can audition for it. When school starts, ask the choral director if you can audition privately if you're still afraid. If the answer is no, then your elective will have to be art. And by the way, you may be pleasantly surprised to discover that "talent" in art is the result of hard work, dedication and practice.