Audition to join the Seattle Women's Chorus!

About the project and the company

We represent a diverse group of singers: lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, gender nonconforming, non-binary and straight allies. We are united in the pride we take in our singing. Seattle Men’s Chorus and Seattle Women’s Chorus have a long and proud history in Seattle, across the nation and within our own LGBTQ and allied community. When you join SMC or SWC, you become a part of an institution which is dedicated to musical excellence and PRIDE.

We work VERY hard. Through this hard work we provide our members and the community with a source of personal and community pride resulting in a positive impact on LGBTQ people throughout Washington State.

Because we have distinct TTBB* and SSAA* choruses, placement in a chorus is based solely on successfully passing the current musical audition standards for that particular ensemble and being placed by the Artistic Director according to the tessitura and blending quality of the voice.

If you’re interested in auditioning, we hope we’ll hear from you.

*(TTBB: Tenor, Bass, Baritone; SSAA: Soprano, Alto)

Location of Audition

Seattle First Baptist Church 1111 Harvard Ave. Seattle, WA

Audition requirements

Is there an age requirement? You must be 18 years or older by the date of the first rehearsal in order to sing with the chorus. When do you rehearse? SMC Rehearsals are on Monday evenings from 6:30 PM to 9:30 PM SWC Rehearsals are on Tuesday evenings from 6:30 PM to 9:30 PM All rehearsals are held downtown Seattle at the Seattle First Baptist Church. In addition to weekly rehearsals, there are additional evening rehearsals and one (or more) Saturday rehearsal per performance cycle. Performance week singers are expected to attend tech rehearsal and dress rehearsals in addition to the regular rehearsals. How much time am I committing to? Rehearsals and performances are a major commitment of time and energy for each person. Additionally singers commit to reviewing and memorizing music outside of rehearsal, on their own. We need to know that all our members are able to make the commitment to maintain and improve our artistic and organizational standards. There are also opportunities to volunteer time at fundraising events, on various organizational committees, etc. Becoming a member does not mean you have to sing in every concert of the season. Members are able to go on leave when needed. What repertoire do the Choruses perform? The Choruses are committed to performing a wide range of musical styles, from classical to popular. How big are the Choruses? Chorus membership is not limited to any particular number. What are my financial obligations? Member Dues: once a quarter $75 ($25 for those who need assistance or the option to waive if needed) Chorus Attire: All performing members are required to provide their own performance attire. For SMC this is a standard tuxedo. For SWC this is a custom costume that is ordered the first month of each performance cycle. Retreat: We hold a weekend retreat out of town once a year, generally in Nov for SMC and Jan/Feb for SWC. The weekend consists of 4 rehearsals and a lot of time to socialize! The cost can range from $25-$350 (includes lodging and some meals). Financial assistance is available through our Member Assistance Program. No one will be turned away from SMC/SWC membership for inability to pay. What are COVID-19 Protocols or Requirements? All singing members are required to show proof of full vaccination with at least one booster in order to participate. Masks are optional and at the discretion of individuals for both rehearsals and performances. Enhanced air purification systems are in place in rehearsal space and backstage at concert venues. Singers must test negative on the date of each performance. Seattle Choruses follows CDC guidelines and community standards and we will continue to review our protocols, keep abreast of the latest trends in the pandemic and evolve our mitigation.