May Festival Announced for Youth Chorus 2018-19 Season

Singing auditions being held for youth in grades 8-12 to join the May Festival Youth Chorus 2018-19 Season.

Funding for arts programs in schools has consistently decreased over the years, but this community outreach initiative has been going strong for over 100 years.

Do you or someone you know in grades 8-12 have a passion and talent for singing? If private vocal lessons are not an option, here is an opportunity to sharpen vocal skills with one of the most prestigious choral music festivals in the Western Hemisphere. Absolutely free. Singing as part of the May Festival Youth Chorus is part of an honored annual tradition dating back to the late 1800's. Whether it's singing in a band, church or a school choir this invaluable opportunity allows youth chorus members to perform with International Artists and composers, while joining in song with professional musicians of the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra.

Members chosen to be a part of the May Festival are known nationally, earning a reputation of excellence. It is a fantastic way for students to sharpen vocal abilities, develop leadership skills and network.

Matthew Swanson, director of youth choruses for the May Festival Youth Chorus, is holding auditions by appointment only for students in grades 8-12 to join a roster of singers for performances during the 2018-2019 season. Matthew earned both his Masters and completed his Doctorate in Music at Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music.

"The May Festival Youth Chorus extends far beyond singing. It inspires camaraderie, builds confidence and leadership skills in addition to elevating the vocal abilities of its members," says Matthew adding, "Youth are not classified by their popularity or lack thereof, in this setting, everyone is equal. It is wonderful to see how students from diverse backgrounds within the region forming strong bonds with one another through their shared love of singing."

Over the years, many members of the youth chorus have formed lifelong friendships with their peers, sometimes performing together in the adult chorus and in various theatrical settings. Exploring new talents and experiencing new adventures with peers who have similar interests makes this experience a quality one.

And it's FREE.

WHO: The May Festival Youth Chorus

WHAT: Singing auditions for students in grades 8-12 with the following:

· A passion for singing

· Vocal abilities with a desire to sharpen your vocal skills

· Enjoy singing on stage

· Made All-County Chorus in the past

HOW: Youth Auditions are by appointment only via email rwetzel@mayfestival.com

Or by calling the May Festival Office directly at 513.744.3229

WHEN:

Ø August 29 (6:00-9: 00 PM) Friday: Evening auditions at Knox Presbyterian Church

Ø September 1 (10:00AM-1: 00 PM) Saturday: Morning and Afternoon auditions at Knox Presbyterian Church

WHERE: LOCATION: Knox Presbyterian Church: 3400 Michigan Ave, Cincinnati, OH 45208

REQUIREMENTS: Please prepare one solo (classical in nature, if possible). You will also be asked to sight read and demonstrate your vocal range; a piano accompanist will be provided.

The May Festival Youth Chorus rehearses on Sunday afternoons from September through May.

Interview opportunities with Matthew Swanson, director of youth choruses for the May Festival, available upon request.

About the May Festival

Established in 1873, the May Festival is directly responsible for the development of Cincinnati's modern music life. Music Hall, the city's primary concert venue, was built specifically to house the Festival's performance. The prestigious roster of Festival Music Directors has included, among others, Theodore Thomas, Max Rudolf, James Levine and, currently, James Conlon.

The May Festival Chorus is the official chorus of the Cincinnati Symphony and Pops Orchestra. The Chorus performs periodically throughout the year as part of the CSO and Pops season. This includes seasonal concerts at Riverbend Music Center in addition to the two-week May Festival in May 2019. The May Festival Adult and Youth Chorus is an all-volunteer chorus.

 

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