The Syracuse Children’s Chorus is open to all children ages 8 and up who love to sing. We welcome students of all races, ethnic groups and religions from all Central New York public, private and home schools, and from all income levels and all family situations.
Children who will turn 8 by September 1 of the audition year are eligible to audition each May. Parents may call the Chorus Office to schedule an audition. A recommendation from the child’s school music teacher or other qualified adult is desired, but not required, in order to schedule an audition.
Early Spring
Talk to your child’s school music teacher. Let the teacher know that your child loves to sing and is interested in becoming a member of the Syracuse Children’s Chorus. If you are unable to contact your school music teacher, please call the Chorus office at 315.478.0582 for further information.
March/April (Recommendation Season)
In March of each year, area music teachers receive a mailing from the Chorus that includes a student recommendation form. Talk to your school music teacher again during the month of March to discuss your child’s interest in the Chorus.
Music teachers are asked to return recommendation forms to the Chorus office. The Chorus will then contact parents directly and invite them to schedule an audition. Auditions are held in mid-May.
May (Auditions)
At the audition, the child will be asked to sing Happy Birthday and an additional prepared song of the child’s choice. The prepared song should have piano accompaniment (not taped accompaniment) and the child should bring printed music to the audition. The Chorus will supply a pianist to accompany the child. The child will also be asked to complete several musical activities to assess skills and ability. The audition does not include sight-reading. No specific coaching is necessary before the audition, though we do encourage school music teachers to assist children in the choice and preparation of audition songs.
May/June (Registration)
Parents are notified of audition results within two weeks of the audition. Registration for new and returning members is held in June, and rehearsals start the following September.
We will be happy to answer any questions you may have about the audition process or the timeline of events. Just give us a call at 315.478.0582 or send us an email.