Because the Gay Men’s Chorus of Washington strives for artistic excellence, acceptance as a singing member is determined by an audition. We understand that the idea of an audition can be intimidating, and we do our best to make the audition process as informal and friendly as possible. Auditions are by appointment only.
Auditions for GMCW’s 2010 Holiday Show, Men In Tights: A Pink Nutcracker have now passed. To inquire about the forthcoming audition schedule, please contact Audition Coordinator Eric Peterson, E-mail Auditions@gmcw.org.
What to Expect at the Audition: The only people in the room will be you and GMCW’s Artistic Director, Jeff Buhrman. You will chat a little with Jeff, sing some scales to warm-up and determine the range of your voice, sing a familiar song – usually “My Country ‘Tis of Thee,” and follow Jeff through a series of vocal exercises. You will be asked to sight-read a simple piece of music, and may be given an exercise to test your ability to hear and reproduce different pitch sequences. You do not need to prepare a song or bring any music, and there is no formal written music test. You do not have to know how to read music, but at a minimum, it helps to be able to follow your voice line. Any previous music experience is a plus. No need to bring a resume. Overall, the whole process should not take more than half an hour. We will help you feel comfortable and at ease for your audition. You will be notified of the audition outcome several days later by email.
TIME COMMITMENT
GMCW presents three main concert series each year in December, March, and June. Attendance at rehearsals and performances is mandatory.
Regular Rehearsals: Our regular rehearsals are every Sunday, 6:30-9:30 pm at New York Ave. Presbyterian Church, 1313 New York Avenue NW, Washington, DC (Metro to Metro Center or McPherson Square). Our rehearsal time is valuable. We learn a great deal of music for each concert. Members are expected to arrive on time. Many members come to rehearsal early in order to take care of business matters and to socialize. After rehearsal, those of us so inclined retreat to a nearby bar to sooth our tired voices with libations of choice.
Special Rehearsals: There are also special rehearsals (sectionals, dress rehearsals, etc) and the dates and times are announced as these are scheduled. Two or three extra rehearsals are often scheduled in the days before a main concert.
Absences: Because we strive for the best artistic product possible, GMCW has an attendance policy which allows no more than three absences during each concert period. Sectional rehearsals can be used as make-up rehearsals.
Personal Responsibility for Learning Music: You are expected to review your music at home, so you will be fully prepared for each rehearsal. We provide you with a rehearsal recording for each concert with which you can practice. Music is memorized for our concerts.
Retreat: At the end of October we hold a weekend long retreat at a nearby facility. The retreat counts as one regular required rehearsal and one make-up rehearsal and is also a great opportunity to get to know each other.
Schedule: You will have access to the complete schedule of rehearsals, performances, and other important dates as soon as you join, so you can mark your calendar accordingly.
Volunteer Teams: GMCW involves more than just music. To keep the Chorus running smoothly, we rely on members to volunteer extra time. The majority of jobs require relatively little time individually. As a whole, they represent a tremendous amount of effort, without which the Chorus would not be able to function. Please consider helping with one or more of these support team efforts.
Season Break: We take a break from mid/late June until the Sunday after Labor Day.
FINANCIAL COMMITMENT
Dues: The annual dues for GMCW membership is $195.00, due on date of membership. As a volunteer membership organization, we raise all of our own funds from membership dues, advertising, ticket sales, etc. Dues help to pay for music, rehearsal rental space, costumes, performance space, lighting, sound, and all operational expenses. Financial assistance (partial or full) is available for those who need it. Please contact the Chorus Office if you would like to arrange for multiple partial payments through the year, or to request financial assistance.
Performance Attire: You procure your own tuxedo (black, single-breasted, notched collar), white dress shirt (non-button down collar), black shoes, and black socks. You will purchase your necktie from GMCW. Suspenders, cufflinks and studs are optional. GMCW “baubles” are also worn for many shows and will be explained during orientation.
Red GMCW Polo Shirt: One time cost of approx. $20. Worn for Pride Day and other informal occasions.
Concert Travel: Chorus members are financially responsible for the cost of our optional concert tours. Efforts are made to provide low cost options, including community housing when available.
Retreat and Other Incidentals: Our annual retreat in the fall (late October 2005) costs about $85 per person, for weekend room and board in Thurmont, MD. There are other incidental expenses for minor costume items, such as seasonal bowtie/cummerbunds (red this past year – $11/member) etc.