Join the Chorale

The Southwestern Seminary Master Chorale is always looking for dedicated and motivated singers to join us. The Master Chorale is an auditioned ensemble that rehearses every Monday night from 7:30 to 9:30 PM in Cowden Hall, Room 200 at Southwestern Seminary. These rehearsals are supplemented with 2-3 retreat weekends each concert season.

Auditions

Auditions are held twice each year, prior to the fall and spring semesters. The audition process consists of a vocal audition in conjunction with sight-reading exercises and a written basic theory test. Auditionees should be prepared to sing two accompanied solos in contrasting styles, preferably from the classical and/or sacred repertoire. One selection in a foreign language is encouraged. An accompanist will be provided. Auditions will be administered by either Dr. Thye or one of the student associate conductors.

To request an audition, please call (817) 923-1921 ext. 3140 or send an email to MasterChorale@swbts.edu.

Fees

Southwestern Seminary generously supports the Master Chorale by annually budgeting for the majority of the costs associated with our concert season. This contribution allows the chorus to perform with the FWSO, rehearse on campus, and promote itself in the DFW community.

Minor incidental costs involved with being a member of the Master Chorale are as follows:

• $20 membership fee per semester. This fee covers social events, administrative costs, additional chorale promotion, future recording projects, and honorariums to attract high caliber solo artists to perform with the group. Southwestern Seminary students are assessed this fee as a part of their regular tuition costs. Community singers are billed separately for this fee. Members wanting to donate additional funds to assist fellow singers having difficulty with this bi-annual fee may make such donations anytime throughout the year to the Master Chorale controlled account. Should this membership fee present a hardship for any singer, please contact the board chairman for scholarship information.
• Music costs for each concert. This amount averages $15 to $30 per semester for new music. Music in the proper editions already owned, such as Messiah, need not be purchased twice. Music is ordered by the Chorale and is purchased by each singer in advance of its use in performance.
• Costs for correct performance attire. Chorale members are required to purchase and maintain professional concert attire within the guidelines of the membership handbook.
• Travel opportunities for the chorus may be at additional expense to each member.

Handbook and Schedule

• View New Handbook
• Master Chorale 2012-2013 Schedule