St. Louis Symphony Chorus
Audition Information

Scheduling an Audition

Periodically, there are openings in the St. Louis Symphony Chorus for qualified singers to perform with the orchestra and chorus and work with distinguished, internationally-known conductors. Contact the Chorus Manager for more information.

Auditions will be held in late August and early September, 2023. If you are interested in auditioning, please check back closer to the date for a sign-up opportunity.

Preparing for the Audition

Singers are asked to perform a classical selection from memory (art song, opera or oratorio aria, sacred piece or classical music theater solo). The piece may be in any language.  Singers will also be asked to sight read and vocalize.The sight reading selection is usually a brief excerpt from an 18th or 19th century choral work. Vocalizing will further demonstrate range and flexibility and help determine possible placement in the chorus.

Sight reading examples

Auditions are heard by the chorus director and chorus manager and an accompanist is provided. The entire audition will last ten minutes.

Auditioners will be sent an Audition Form, New Singer Audition Info and 23/24 Season Calendar via email

Paid Positions

 Paid positions are reserved for singers with strong experience as soloists with large ensembles. The St. Louis Symphony Orchestra is a world-class orchestra; anyone selected as a paid singer should be able to perform as cover soloists at this level. The SLSO performs mainly in the 2,700-seat acoustic of Powell Hall, without amplification. Paid singers must be strong enough to project over the orchestra. Paid singers also must have excellent musical skills, including sight reading, and must be available for all performances.

2023/2024 Repertoire

The repertoire for the chorus for this season is

• Opera in Concert: Cavalleria rusticana | Saturday, Nov. 11, 7:30 PM & Sunday, Nov. 12, 3 PM at Stifel Theatre
  Experience Pietro Mascagni’s ever-popular and legendary Cavalleria rusticana in concert. James Gaffigan, internationally renowned as an opera conductor, tells this tale of love and betrayal with white-hot intensity.

• Carmina Burana | Saturday, Feb. 17, 7:30 PM & Sunday, Feb. 18, 3PM at Stifel Theatre
  “O fortuna!” Right from its famous opening notes, Carl Orff’s Carmina Burana shakes the Stifel to its foundation. These songs of joy, love, and celebration, are sure to give goosebumps. Stéphane Denève conducts.

• Verdi’s Requiem | Saturday, Apr. 27, 7:30 PM & Sunday, Apr. 28, 3 PM at Sti
  Verdi’s Requiem is electrifying. Opening with hushed intensity. Breaking loose in the famous "Dies Irae." Pushing performers to the brink. Stéphane Denève conducts.