FAQ about Treble Chorus
When are auditions held?
Auditions are typically held during orientation week for the Fall semester. However, transfers and exchange students are welcome to audition in the Spring. Additional information about auditions will be posted in the Music Department Building (Ewell Hall) and online here.
For Fall 2023, auditions will be held from Sunday, August 25 to Tuesday, August 27.
Can I register for the course before auditioning?
Since the Treble Chorus is auditioned, it is not possible for prospective members to register before being accepted. But if you are interested in membership, you should keep the time slot open for the class (TR 3:30-5:20).
What is the typical schedule for chorus?
Treble Chorus is a year-long course. Taking this course you can earn up to 2 credits, and it fulfills your COLL Arts Proficiency. During a week we typically rehearse for four hours (TR 3:30-5:30) in addition to dress rehearsals added on concert weeks. The Treble Chorus typically performs in 4-7 concerts throughout the semester, including an East Coast Tour during the Spring semester!
Can I audition even if I have no experience?
Of course! The approximately eight-minute audition will consist of vocalization, sight reading and a short conversation about your background and interest in music. You are not required to prepare an audition piece but are welcome to perform a song of your choosing if you wish.
What do I do if I can't audition in the Fall?
Exceptionally, auditions will be held before the spring semester for transfers and other students who were away from campus during the fall semester or would like to join in the Spring! Contact Dr. Bartlett at jcbart@wm.edu to contact or for questions.
Do I have to audition separately for all 3 choirs?
A single audition allows you to be considered for all three choirs! You will have the opportunity to indicate your interest in the choirs of your choice in forms completed at the audition.
What exactly is a Treble voice? and Who can Join?
What does a typical rehearsal look like?
A treble singing voice falls within a range of a treble clef and often performs SSAA compositions. Anyone with a singing voice within this (Soprano, Mezzo-Soprano, Alto, and Alto 2) range is welcome to audition and perform in the chorus.
Members typically enter the choral room (located in Ewell Hall) and get ready for rehearsal by getting their music materials and finding their section. Warm-ups follow, highlighting vocal range, and breathing strategies. We then run through specific pieces, sometimes in sectionals, until we can perfect them for concerts and performances. Half-way through the rehearsal, we run through choral and personal announcements (led by the executive board officers).