LA Children's Chorus auditions May 31 and June 1, 2 and 4

Los Angeles Children’s Chorus (LACC), one of the nation’s leading children’s choirs, is holding auditions for boys and girls ages eight (by September 1, 2012) to twelve on May 31 and June 1, 2 and 4, 2012, in Pasadena. Previous singing experience is not necessary, but audition appointments are required.

LACC’s program focuses on training children who may not necessarily have had previous singing experience, but who are dedicated to achieving excellence in vocal technique, choral singing and classical music. Successful candidates will demonstrate the ability to match pitch, follow instructions, and thrive in a structured, but supportive learning environment. Children audition in groups of five to ensure their comfort, and no preparation is necessary.

Under the artistic direction of Anne Tomlinson, Los Angeles Children’s Chorus, currently in its 26th season, provides a comprehensive music education and performance program for children of diverse cultural and economic backgrounds in Los Angeles County. LACC is comprised of six choirs with choristers ranging in age from 8 to 18 who hail from 60 communities throughout Southern California. (Younger singers are encouraged to enroll in LACC’s class for six- and seven-year-olds, First Experiences in Singing, offered in Pasadena.)

Rehearsals for entry-level choirs are once a week at Pasadena Presbyterian Church. In addition, all children take musicianship classes (a six level curriculum) and receive individual vocal training. They receive mid- and end-of-year evaluations as well. Repertoire is selected to fit each choir’s skill level and focuses on classical works, but also encompasses folk music from around the world, spirituals, gospel songs and jazz, as well as new music

High-profile performance opportunities are an important and integral part of the program and include two culminating choral concerts each year, plus performances at major civic events. LACC’s premier choirs perform with the Los Angeles Philharmonic, LA Opera, Los Angeles Master Chorale, Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra, and the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra, among other prestigious music presenters. The choir was also featured in the Academy Award-nominated documentary film, “SING!” which chronicles a year in the life of the choir and is shown periodically on PBS stations nationwide, as well as follow-up documentaries “SING OPERA!” and “SING CHINA!” In addition, LACC tours locally, nationally and internationally.

Auditions will be held at Pasadena Presbyterian Church, located at 585 East Colorado Boulevard in Pasadena, California 91101. For more information or to make an audition appointment, please call (626) 793-4231 or visit www.lachildrenschorus.org