Chamber Singers

The Chamber Singers is a select mixed ensemble that performs literature spanning the Renaissance to the 21st century. This ensemble has been featured at conventions of the Virginia Music Teachers Association, Virginia Music Educators Association, and American Choral Directors Association. They recently performed at the Washington National Cathedral, Carnegie Hall, and Brooklyn Academy of Music’s Howard Gilman Opera House. Their most recent projects include collaborations with Opera Roanoke, American Opera Theater, Kansas City Baroque Consortium, and New River Valley Symphony Orchestra. Last year’s season included performances in Verdi’s Otello, Purcell’s Dido and Aeneas, and Blow’s Venus and Adonis.

Under the direction of Dr. Dwight Bigler (Virginia Tech’s new director of choral activities), the 2009-2010 Season will feature a cappella music from the Renaissance and contemporary periods as well as masterworks of French, Italian, and American composers. Also included will be exciting new arrangements of African-American spirituals and majestic choral works with organ composed for the great cathedrals of the world.

• Number of performers: 32-35
• Rehearsal Times: Monday/Wednesday/Friday 3:35 p.m. – 5:15 p.m.
• Location: Squires Recital Salon

Auditions for all students take place during the first week of the fall semester. Sign up for a time at Squires 242U during the week before school starts or during the first days of classes.

The Audition Process:

• Perform a solo of your choice (classical art song or aria, folk song, hymn, or classical-type Broadway solo)
• Demonstrate your range by singing various vocal exercises (similar to warm-up exercises in most choirs)
• Sight-read a short rhythmic and melodic sample
• Repeat short tonal memory patterns after hearing them on the piano
• Sing My Country ‘tis of Thee (a cappella, in various keys)

If you have any questions or concerns about the audition process, please contact Dr. Bigler at dbigler@vt.edu.