We are often asked “How do I know if Musica de Filia is right for me or my daughter?” Here is a list of questions that you can ask yourself prior to auditioning for Musica de Filia:
--Are you looking for the thrill of singing with other serious musicians in a choral setting?
--If you have been in a choir or chorus at school, church, etc, has it been a successful and enjoyable experience?
--Is a group setting right for me or my daughter as opposed to private lessons? Keep in mind that the size of our choirs ranges from about 25 in the youngest group to around 70 in the Concert Choir.
--Will you feel comfortable performing a repertoire that includes music of many different cultures and styles, in many different languages? Sacred music of various traditions is chosen for its educational and aesthetic value, not to preach or proselytize. If our repertoire conflicts with your personal beliefs, this matter needs your consideration before making a commitment to join.
--If your daughter is a young singer, is she reading English comfortably? Can she remain attentive to the instructor and the task at hand for 1 to 1-½ hours?
--What is your comfort level with sight singing? Younger singers are not expected to be proficient music readers; this will be part of their instruction. While sight singing is not part of the audition process for older singers (Apprentice, Concert, Chamber and Women's Choir), the ability to read music will be an asset to participation in the choir.
--Most importantly, do you love singing enough to make choir rehearsal and especially performances your top scheduling priority? Do you already have too many other commitments that will create an excessive number of schedule conflicts? (See Member Information for rehearsal times/places.)
--If you’re not sure how to answer some of these questions, please give us a call (Patsy, 767-4815) to make arrangements to visit one of our performances or rehearsals! Maybe seeing us in action will help you decide whether you would like to audition.
The Audition Itself
--Auditions are by appointment. Call Patsy Catsos (767-4815) to make arrangements.
--We usually audition in May and immediately prior to each semester. Make a note on your calendar to call us in August for participation beginning in September, and in December for participation beginning in January.
--Auditions are usually one-on-one with our director, Jaye Churchill.
--Auditions last about 5-10 minutes.
--You will “sing back” several vocal warm-ups with the director, while she accompanies on piano.
--Singers up to 6th grade will then sing the A-B-C song in several different keys.
--Seventh graders and up will sing the Star Spangled Banner.
--The director is looking for accurate pitch, vocal range, and pleasant vocal quality. In many cases she will let you know immediately whether you have passed the audition. Occasionally, she will phone you a day or two later with the news instead.
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