The Chorus
The 100-voice Bel Canto Chorus is Milwaukee’s premier, independent choral organization, as well as Wisconsin’s oldest performing arts organization. Since 1931, Bel Canto has provided both professional and amateur singers alike with extraordinary opportunities to perform a vast and inspiring repertoire, from Baroque to modern. Bel Canto collaborates regularly with other performing arts groups such as the Milwaukee Chamber Orchestra, the Milwaukee Ballet, and The Skylight. The Chorus has toured throughout Europe and Canada, performing in major cultural centers, at prestigious music festivals, and for international competitions. Currently, Bel Canto typically rehearses on a weekly basis at a central Milwaukee location.
The Experience
With Bel Canto you will experience:
- Music - Participate in premieres and explore a cappella and orchestral choral repertoire from ancient to modern
- Enrichment - Enhance musical skills with like-minded singers
- Fun - Join social gatherings and meet new people
- Community - Help weave the cultural fabric of Greater Milwaukee and enhance the quality of life in our community
- History - Be a part of Southeastern Wisconsin's oldest performing arts organization
- Culture - See the world on our international concert tours
- Transformation - Join a group of dedicated singers on an emotional journey, bringing music to life in powerful, moving performances
What our members say about being in Bel Canto:
“Bel Canto is a thrilling experience.”
“Superior music-making inspires individual growth!”
“I drive up every week from Illinois. It's worth the commute.”
“Bel Canto is my therapy!”
“Bel Canto really is something special.”
“Bel Canto is the group I searched 20 years to find.”
“At Bel Canto, you can escape your daily stresses.”
“I feel refreshed after every rehearsal.”
“It’s an extreme makeover for your soul.”
The Audition
Purpose: The purpose of auditions is two-fold. First the audition provides the Music Director with a well-rounded assessment of your skills. Second, the audition assists the singer in defining strengths and areas for improvement. All members go through an annual audition. The process includes a vocal assessment through a prepared solo and duet, sight-singing, an aural skills test, and a brief, basic music theory test.
Process:
The audition consists of two parts:
- A vocal assessment (8 minutes).
In this segment you will:
- Sing a prepared solo song or aria of your choosing (*see below).
- Sing a prepared duet appropriate to your voice
- Sopranos and Tenors (download here)
- Altos and Basses (download here)
- Sight-sing melodic exercises.
- Repeat short, atonal melodies played for you.
*Concerning the prepared solo piece: Bel Canto provides an accompanist for your audition. You are welcome to bring your own accompanist if you like. No tape-recorded or CD accompaniment will be permitted. You may perform from memory, though it is not required. Please bring a separate copy of the music for our accompanist, in addition to your copy. The prepared solo should last 3-4 minutes, and should demonstrate your range, color, and vocal/musical skills. Please choose an art song or a short aria from an opera, operetta, cantata, or oratorio.
2. A brief written music theory test (10 minutes)
This will include questions on:
- Notation and music symbols
- Musical terms
- Key and meter signatures
- Intervals
Auditions are typically held twice each year. Other dates may be added as needed.
The next round of auditions will take place on January 7, 2012.
Auditions will take place by appointment only. Please call the office at (414) 481-8801 or email info@belcanto.org to set up an audition time.
The Expectations
Responsibilities of a Bel Canto Chorus Member:
· Attendance - Attend regular rehearsals – A minimum of 75% attendance is required for each concert cycle, except for the two weeks before a concert when 100% attendance is required. You can download a copy of the 2011-12 rehearsal calendar here
. Chorus Fee - The annual chorus fee is $135 ($67.50 if joining after December concert). Members keep all non-rental music. This fee contributes to, but does not cover, your music costs. Scholarships are available on a limited basis.
· Concert Dress - Members are required to purchase required attire for all concerts, tuxedos for men and a specific dress for women.
· Ticket Sales - It is important that every member feels vested in the quality of Bel Canto’s performances. It is for this reason members are required to sell/buy the equivalent of 2 tickets per concert.
· Volunteer - Members are expected to find ways to give something back – a helping hand, an idea (e.g., finding new donors, volunteers, or pro bono assistance, new ways to market, etc.), time, expertise, etc. There are many non-singing tasks that are essential to the success of Bel Canto. Volunteers are the lifeblood of non-profit organizations.
Try It, You’ll Like It
Want to see what we’re all about before you audition? Through our “Try It, You’ll Like It” program, you are invited to attend and participate in up to three rehearsals before you audition. Call the Bel Canto office at (414) 481-8801 for more details.
Auditions will take place by appointment only. Please call the office at (414) 481-8801 or email info@belcanto.org to set up an audition time.
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