Sing with Oriana
Oriana is an auditioned chamber choir bringing together experienced professional and amateur musicians. Under Music Director Dan Walker, we present three major programs each year, ranging from Renaissance and classical repertoire to adventurous contemporary music and new Australian commissions.
We welcome enquiries from confident choral singers who enjoy challenging repertoire, can prepare music independently and want to contribute to a committed, friendly ensemble.
Auditions are normally held in January and July, and may also be arranged when vacancies arise. Expressions of interest are welcome throughout the year.
Auditions
Prospective members are auditioned by the Musical Director and at least one member of the committee. These auditions are designed to assess a prospective chorister’s musical ability and musicianship, vocal quality, and potential to blend with the rest of the choir. Auditions usually run for around 15 minutes, and include:
- a short prepeared piece (solo or choral excerpt), without piano accompaniment
- sight singing, assessed at an appropriate choral level
- vocal exercises to explore range and vocal quality, and to determine section placement
- a musicianship test.
Individual auditions are normally held by arrangement prior to a rehearsal, usually at 7:00 pm on Thursday evenings at Wesley Music Centre.
Fees
As with all non-profit organisations, members are asked to contribute to the upkeep of the choir. Annual fees for the choir are:
- Annual membership fee, including printed scores: $350
- Annual membership fee, using electronic or your own printed scores: $320
- Full-time student annual membership: $100
The fee may be reduced for members who join part way through a calendar year.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How often does the choir rehearse?
The Oriana Chorale rehearses every Thursday night, 7:30-9:45pm, at Wesley Music Centre.
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Is rehearsal attendance compulsory?
Yes, although we do accommodate members’ other commitments be they professional or private. However, as a rehearsal schedule is made available well in advance of concerts, we require that members be able to commit to at least 80% of all rehearsals in order to participate in a concert.
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Do you have to pay for sheet music?
All members are given access to electronic PDF scores of the repertoire. Members may print their own copies of the music, read from a tablet or other appropriate device, or elect to have music printed for them by the choir librarian for a slightly higher annual fee (see above).
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Do I need to be able to read music to be a member of The Oriana Chorale?
Yes. The choir performs to a high standard and so it is expected that members are able to read music and sing at sight. This enables us to spend more time working on interpretation and detail during rehearsal, rather than simply learning notes.
If your question has not been addressed, please contact us and we will get back to you as soon as possible.