Every guest will be given a brief vocal evaluation to determine their vocal range. This will allow us to find the best fit for each singer within the four voice parts.
Every prospective member will be required to audition by their third visit.
As new music is added to the chorus repertoire a demonstration of proficiency in notes and lyrics is required through the use of a tape recorder or other methods as may be designated.
Initial Voice Placement:
• Range: The auditioner asks the singer to start singing a scale from the lowest note in their range on a “La” vowel all the way to the very top of their range.
• Vocal Quality: The singer performs a song of their choice by themselves.
• Intervals: The auditioner sings a series of notes. The singer is asked to sing the same notes back to the auditioner. Three to four different sets of these four note intervals are sung and the degree of difficulty increases slightly with each new set.
• Ability to Harmonize: The auditioner sings the melody line of a familiar song like “You Are My Sunshine”. The singer is asked to make up a harmony part.
Note: Many lead singers with years of experience have looked rather shocked when asked to do this. Responses like “but I sing LEAD” are not uncommon. However, the repertoire and arrangements of the chorus often passes the melody line to the tenors or basses, so there are many occasions where lead singers must be proficient harmony singers.
• Rhythm: The auditioner sings or plays a series of different rhythms. The singer is asked to (sing) mimic each of these rhythms.
Q: What is the first thing I should do?
A: The first thing you should do is visit a rehearsal and meet the women making up this chorus
Audition Steps:
Q: What do I need to prepare for the audition – What does the audition consist of?
A: As you have already gone through the voice placement process you will have the opportunity to sing one of the songs with a small group of other members of the chorus. As you attend the rehearsals, you will have additional opportunities to practice and become comfortable with your part.
On your second visit you will be able to take the music home for the audition song to work on it in addition to the rehearsal night.
Q: Should I be nervous?
A: No. The audition is private and is non-competitive. It is designed to evaluate your voice, not whether you can out-sing anyone. There are many skill levels represented in each chorus. However, you will need basic musical ability to be a singing member.
Q: How will I know if I’ve been accepted as a singing member?
A: The artistic staff usually makes their decisions at the conclusion of all scheduled auditions. If you are not yet ready to be a singing member, you will be asked to attend a future audition.
Q: What will happen after the audition?
A: You’ll receive a copy of the member handbook, which contains lots of detailed information covered at the orientation. New members will be assigned a “Singing Sister” who will help answer your questions during your first year as a new member. This “Sister” is a seasoned performer who will provide you with preliminary information about schedules, rehearsal formats, and an overview of how the chorus operates.
