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Sydney Philharmonia Choirs | How to audition

AUDITION FOR SYDNEY PHILHARMONIA CHOIRS

We encourage singers throughout the year to become members of our auditioned choirs: Symphony Chorus, Chamber Singers and VOX (for those aged 18-30).  The audition process provides us the opportunity to meet you, hear your voice and assess your sight-singing and musicality.

2024 Audition Dates

We will hold general auditions on the following dates.  After you register, we will be in contact with you a week prior to the audition date to arrange a time for your audition.

Please register at least two weeks before the audition you wish to take so we can let you know further details in time.

Open Day Auditions
Come along and try out some vocal exercises and repertoire before your audition.

  • Saturday 20 January | 10am – 1pm
  • Tues 19 March | 6.30pm – 9.30pm – Rehearsal Studio. Wharf 4/5 15 Hickson Road. Dawes Point
  • Sun 1 September | 10am – 1pm

General Auditions

  • Tuesday 13 February | 4pm – 6pm
  • Tuesday 19 March | 4pm – 6pm – Rehearsal Studio. Wharf 4/5 15 Hickson Road. Dawes Point
  • Wednesday 20 March | VOX Time TBC
  • Tuesday 9 April | 4pm – 6pm
  • Wednesday 10 April | VOX Time TBC
  • Tuesday 23 April | 4pm – 6pm
  • Tuesday 28 May | 4pm – 6pm
  • Wednesday 19 June | VOX Time TBC
  • Tuesday 25 June | 4pm – 6pm
  • Tuesday 23 July | 4pm – 6pm
  • Tuesday 20 August | 4pm-6pm
  • Wednesday 4 September VOX Time TBC
  • Tuesday 1 October | 4pm – 6pm
  • Tuesday 29 October | 4pm – 6pm
  • Tuesday 26 November | 4pm – 6pm

Auditions will be held at:
Choir Rehearsal Studio
Wharf 4/5, 15 Hickson Road
Dawes Point

What does the audition involve?

Auditions last about 15 minutes.  You will need to prepare a solo piece such as a song (art-song or lieder) or an oratorio aria so that we can hear your voice.  We will provide an accompanist.  Generally, we will also want to hear you sing some scales and vocal exercises so that we can determine your vocal range.  You will also be given some sight-reading material.  We look for a good standard of sight-reading because of our busy and varied concert schedule.

I get really nervous before auditions.  What should I do?

No one really likes auditioning!  However, we want to make your audition experience as pleasant as possible.  Make sure your chosen song is well prepared and that you have spare photocopies of the music for the panel and accompanist.  Wear whatever you feel comfortable in.  Treat yourself to a quiet day before coming in to audition for us – if you are rushed for time it is difficult to focus properly.  If you want a glass of water or a music stand, just ask!  If you are sick on the day of your audition, it’s best to postpone so that you will be heard at your best.

Do I need to be having singing lessons?

All of our auditioned choristers are encouraged to have regular singing lessons.  While not essential, we look for singers who have either had some vocal training or have regularly performed with a recognised choir or vocal ensemble.  If you are unsure as to whether you have sufficient experience, we can offer advice on whether you should audition, or point you in the direction of quality vocal training and one of our community choirs.

What does it cost?

There is a $25 administration fee to audition.

If you are successful in your audition, you will be taken on as a trial chorister for six months and you will be expected to pay the annual membership fee.  All music is provided as part of that fee.  You will have to purchase appropriate performance attire, which is typically a formal black outfit.  The cost to attend rehearsals and performances such as car parking, refreshments etc will be at your own cost.

What happens after the audition?

We will write to you as soon as possible after the audition to let you know whether or not we are able to offer you a place in one of our choirs.  An annual membership fee applies once you have successfully joined and you will need to attend regular rehearsals.  If you are unsuccessful, we try to give you lots of constructive feedback and are happy to give you suggestions on how you can improve.

Read more about our auditioned choirs here

Register for an audition

Complete the form below and we will contact you to arrange a suitable date and time to audition. For more information, please email [email protected]

Auditions are scheduled throughout the year.