Audition Request

San Francisco Bay Area Chamber Choir; Buddy James, Artistic Director

Sing with SFBACC!

Auditions

SFBACC welcomes experienced choral singers to audition in August and in January. Interested singers are invited to complete this online form and schedule a one-on-one vocal interview/audition with the Artistic Director.

Vocal interviews include a self-prepared excerpt of a choral selection (supplied by SFBACC), scales, sight-reading, and a one-minute unaccompanied excerpt of a solo song of your choice. An aria, art song, folksong, or musical theater selection is preferred and it does not need to be memorized. Singers will be notified of the outcome of their auditions before the first rehearsal. 

Why should I sing with SFBACC?

It’s fun, and a great learning experience! You’ll share in the joy of singing a wide range of musical genres. SFBACC’s past concerts have included masterworks, jazz, swing, gospel, spirituals, contemporary music, and international compositions, and we continue to explore new musical adventures.

You’ll make friends. Every singer in SFBACC shares a love of music, but also brings a rich tapestry of other interests. Many singers have formed lasting friendships in SFBACC that have kept them returning to the group for years.

You’ll support and experience the wide range of arts in the Bay Area. SFBACC frequently partners with a variety of groups to incorporate instrumental music, dance, visual art, and poetry into our performances. 

Frequently-Asked Questions

Who sings in SFBACC?

SFBACC aspires to the level of a professional choir. Our ranks include working musicians, professionals, artists, entrepreneurs, retirees, and college students. SFBACC is a supportive and inclusive ensemble that welcomes people of all ages, ethnicities, orientations, and backgrounds.

When and where are rehearsals?

Weekly rehearsals are held on Wednesday evenings from 7 PM to approximately 9:30 pm at the the CSUEB Music Department Recital Hall. There may also be one or two additional rehearsals during the week immediately preceding a concert, which will be announced as the concert approaches, as well as one or two Saturday retreats and recording sessions.

How often does SFBACC perform?

SFBACC performs two full concerts each year, giving two performances of each concert. Typically, we sing a concert before Thanksgiving in November and a final concert towards the end of May or early June. Other concerts arise as opportunities present themselves.

Where does SFBACC perform?

SFBACC performs throughout the Bay Area. We search for inspiring musical venues that highlight the full sound of SFBACC.

Are there other opportunities to make music, such as small groups and solos?

Our concerts often involve small groups and our regular repertoire frequently offers opportunities for solos from within the group.

AUDITIONS

I don’t sight-read well. Should I still audition?

We perform a lot of music and much of it is tricky. We expect singers to learn their music outside of rehearsal so that our time together maximizes our music-making. Singers should be prepared to learn their music in advance rather than rely on sight-reading.

I haven’t sung in a choir for many years. Should I still audition?

Absolutely! Joining a choir is a great way to get back to singing regularly.

SINGER EXPECTATIONS

What are the participation expectations for singers?

Singers are expected to participate in all rehearsals and all performances for the year. We understand that illness or conflicts sometimes make participation impossible, but such cases should be rare. Singers will have the opportunity to disclose conflicts when concert dates are announced at the beginning of each season.

How much does it cost to sing in SFBACC?

As a 501(c)(3) organization, member donations are important to help us grow and thrive. The dues to sing in SFBACC is $300 per singer for the year, but no singer is turned away for lack of funds.

What do we wear when we perform?

The standard performing attire is black dress pants and a black button-down dress shirt, or a floor-length black dress. Singers are expected to purchase their concert attire.

How often will I need to re-audition?

To maintain the musical standards of the chorus, all singers will be asked to sing privately for the Artistic Director every two years.

If you have any further questions about joining SFBACC, please reach out to us at https://www.sfbaychoir.org/questionscomments/