Welcome to Joining the New York Philharmonic: Chorus Opportunities and Audition Requirements

Introduction to Choral Involvement at the New York Philharmonic

The New York Philharmonic, one of the most prestigious orchestras in the world, operates with a rich tradition of choral music and performances. Whether you are aiming to join as a professional vocalist or simply participate in the chorus, understanding the audition process and requirements is crucial. This article will guide you through the steps and details needed to join the chorus or sing in performances with the orchestra.

How to Join the New York Philharmonic Chorus

Joining the New York Philharmonic Chorus typically does not involve singing as part of the orchestra, but rather participating in the chorus. The chorus adds depth and richness to many of the orchestra's performances, particularly in works that require choral presence such as Beethoven’s 9th Symphony, Mahler’s Symphony No. 8 and No. 2, and Verdi’s Requiem. The New York Philharmonic choruses are made up of highly skilled amateur singers who are mentored by professional chorus masters. This model is also common in the UK, where the chorus performances are not frequent but are scheduled for important events. Auditions are generally required, and the process is designed to identify singers with excellent vocal abilities and sight-reading skills.

Audition Process and Requirements

### 1. **Audition Announcements** Stay informed about audition opportunities by following the New York Philharmonic's official website and social media pages. These platforms often announce upcoming auditions for the chorus, which can be a valuable opportunity for eligible singers. ### 2. **Preparation for the Audition** Preparing adequately for an audition is key. You should select a variety of songs that demonstrate your vocal range and skill, especially songs from the classical repertoire. This genre’s familiarity is beneficial as many of the New York Philharmonic's performances are centered around classical music. ### 3. **Audition Day** On the day of the audition, you can expect a series of tests designed to evaluate your vocal abilities. This may include singing a prepared piece, sight-reading a selection from the repertoire, and performing vocal exercises. The audition panel will assess your vocal prowess, phrasing, and ability to blend with other singers. ### 4. **Rehearsals and Performances** If you are successful, you will join rehearsals and perform with the New York Philharmonic. The workload may vary, but typically, the chorus will perform at select concerts, such as those with major choral works or special events.

Special Requirements for Choral Performance

#### 1. **Voice Quality and Sight-Singing Skills** Choral singers must possess an excellent voice and excel at sight-singing. There may only be limited rehearsal times, and singers are expected to accurately perform the compositions from the first rehearsal to ensure a cohesive and high-quality performance. #### 2. **Auditions:** Auditions usually begin with a selection of your own choice, followed by sight-reading challenging passages from classical scores. Ear tests are also common to ensure accurate pitch and blending with other voices. This rigorous process ensures that only the most talented and capable singers are selected for the ensemble.

Conclusion

Joining the New York Philharmonic Chorus is an intriguing and rewarding experience for serious and skilled singers interested in performing choral works with one of the world’s leading orchestras. By adhering to the audition requirements and preparations outlined here, you can increase your chances of successfully joining this esteemed group.

Related Keywords

Related Keywords: New York Philharmonic, Chorus, Auditions, Vocalists, Sight-Singing, Choral Performance