Los Angeles Children's Chorus to hold auditions

Los Angeles Children's Chorus (LACC), considered one of the nation's leading children's choirs, is holding open auditions for boys and girls ages eight to twelve in Pasadena May 28, 29, 30 and 31, 2009. Previous singing experience is not necessary, but audition appointments are required.

Children audition in groups of five and no preparation is necessary. 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 tone, follow instructions, and thrive in a supportive, but structured learning environment.

Under the artistic direction of Anne Tomlinson, Los Angeles Children's Chorus, currently celebrating its 23rd 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 five choirs with choristers ranging in age from 8 to 17 who reside in cities throughout Southern California. (Younger singers are encouraged to enroll in LACC's new class for six and seven-year-olds, First Experiences in Singing.) Rehearsals for entry-level choirs are once a week at Pasadena Presbyterian Church, and all children take musicianship classes (six levels are offered) and receive individual vocal training, as well as biannual evaluations.

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.

Outstanding performance opportunities are an important and integral part of the program and include two self-produced 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 at the Hollywood Bowl, 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, and the recently-released documentary “SING OPERA!” 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 Austin Lewis after January 5, 2009 at (626) 793-4231 or visit www.lachildrenschorus.org.