How to join the Choir

2008-2009 Season Auditions

MEMBERSHIP
To become a member of Bach Choir of Pittsburgh you must pass a musical audition. Since all singers are expected to continually improve their musicianship, vocal skills, and knowledge, members are re-auditioned each season at the conclusion of the season. Auditions for our 75th Anniversary Season are open!

Tuesday, May 13, 5:45pm - 10pm Saturday, May 17, 10am - 3pm

&

Tuesday, August 26, 6pm - 10pm Saturday, August 30, 10am - 3pm

at Purnell Center for the Arts Carnegie Mellon University

For details or to schedule a time, contact Nancy Thompson, Audition Coordinator nbthomp@city-net.com (412) 247-0390

NEW SINGERS should prepare a song of their choice. They should bring a copy of their music for the accompanist and may sing memorized if desired. Sight singing will be required.

CORE auditioners should sing two memorized songs in two different languanges. They should bring copies of their music for the accompanist. They will also take a written and oral test together, classroom style. Time will be set aside in each audition session for this. They will also sight sing.

All auditions are seven minutes in length.

COMMITMENT
The musical success of the Choir is dependent on member faithfulness and diligence. To join the Choir implies a desire to participate in making great music together with the conductor and your fellow singers, and a promise to attend the rehearsals and the concerts for the entire season. The Choir's rehearsal and subscription season runs from late August through early May.

REHEARSALS
Rehearsals are held each Tuesday evening from 7:30 pm to 10:00pm at Rodef Shalom Congregation, 4905 Fifth Avenue in Oakland. Rehearsals usually begin the first Tuesday after Labor Day and end in early May following the last scheduled season concert. There are two Saturday retreats -- one in September, and one in January -- which begin 8:30 a.m. and end at 3:00 p.m.

PROFESSIONAL POSITIONS
Bach Choir of Pittsburgh supports a professional core of paid singers. These positions are open by audition, and membership is for one season at a time.