Who Can Apply?

Requirements for Choirs

(All choirs are encouraged to apply)

1. Audio recording. Include four or more separate and contrasting selections - maximum 20 minutes of music. Recording should represent customary repertoire and reflect the special qualities and/or cultural traditions of the choir.  One selection must be unaccompanied. 

• Hints for Recording Your Choir: Try to record in a church or in hall with some reverberation. If there is too much reverberation in the space, record in a corner. Keep the recording method simple. One pair of stereo microphones place behind and high above the conductor's head should be sufficient. Keep the microphones close together (1-2 feet). The sound can distort easily so keep the average recording level low. Avoid placing microphones on or near a piano.

 

2. Programs from selected concerts performed over the past two years. (Photocopies are acceptable.)

 

3. Biography of choir, including philosophy, place in the community and repertoire range.

 

4. Biography of the conductor(s).

 

5. Photograph of choir and conductor(s). The photo should be in high resolution (300 dpi) and the size 5 inches by 7 inches or equivalent. Electronic photos are preferred.

 

6. A list of choristers and support persons expected to attend the Festival with the choir (e.g. chaperones, managers). Festival 500 considers choristers under the age of 18 to be youth participants who must be accompanied by chaperones. There must be one chaperone for every ten youth participants.

 

7. A completed application form. Download here.

 

Recordings will be reviewed in anonymity by a jury with acknowledged expertise in choral music. The decisions of the Festival 500 Selections Committee are final. Application materials will not be returned. The deadline for choir applications is June 18, 2010. Choirs will receive confirmation that applications have been received.

 

 

Eligibility for Professional Development for Small Vocal Ensembles

 

1. Ensembles must be a cappella.

 

2. Maximum size of each ensemble is 8 persons.

 

3. Small Vocal Ensembles cannot be members of or embedded in any choir chosen to attend Festival 500. The two programs are distinct and have their own schedule of events and performances.

 

4. Ensembles wishing to apply for the Professional Devleopment Program for Small Vocal Ensembles will be required to submit an application which will include recordings, biographies and other supporting materials.

 

 

Requirements for Professional Development for Small Vocal Ensembles

 

1. Biography of the ensemble

 

2. Photograph of the ensemble. Photo should be in high resolution (300 dpi) and the size 5 inches by 7 inches or equivalent. Electronic photos are preferred.

 

3. Audio recording. Include four or more separate and contrasting selections - maximum 20 minutes of music. Recording should reflect the special qualities of the group. Two selections must be a cappella.

 

4. List of notable performances and appearances over the past two years.

 

5. Statement detailing the group's future plans

 

6. Statement of intent: how this program would benefit the group and how it supports the group's goals (maximum 250 words).

 

7. A sample list of repertoire for the Small Vocal Ensemble concert series. The program must not exceed 30-35 minutes of music. This time limit will be strictly observed. Both sacred and secular music may be performed. This program is to assist the jury and may be amended if the group is selected.

 

8. A completed application form. Download here.

 

Recordings will be reviewed in anonymity by a jury with acknowledged expertise in choral music. The decisions of the Festival 500 Selection Committee are final. Applications materials will not be returned.

 

Please check back periodically for more application information. The deadline for small vocal ensemble applications is June 18, 2010. Ensembles will receive confirmation that applications have been received.

 

Individuals - Come Solo Participants

Please check back periodically for updated application information.

 

 

Conducting Masterclass

 

Please check back periodically for updated application information.

 

 

Voice Masterclass

 

Please check back periodically for updated application information. 

 

 

Choral Institute

 

Please check back periodically for updated application information.