Our Ensembles

University Chorale (MUSE 107) does not require an audition.

If you are interested in the University Chorale please register for MUSE 107 then contact Stephanie Council at stephanie.council@unlv.edu if you’d like to learn more.

Chamber Choir (MUSE 403/503) is a chamber ensemble for graduate and select undergraduate students. Undergraduates are identified for consideration based upon their UNLV Singers audition. Graduate students interested in the ensemble will complete a separate audition component.

Argenta (MUSE 405/505) is an auditioned treble voices ensemble for undergraduate and graduate students. Auditions for this ensemble are held at the end of the Spring semester for interested students.

UNLV Singers (MUSE 408/508) is a mixed voices ensemble of auditioned undergraduates. Students must complete the audition requirements (see below) to be considered for enrollment.

Las Vegas Master Singers (MUSE 407/507) conducts its own audition process. Go to lvmastersingers.org to receive audition information. Email Joseph Svendsen for more info.

Required Forms

UNLV Singers (MUSE 408) Audition Requirements

  1. Perform, from memory, at least one minute of a solo (preferably Art Song) of your choosing, a cappella.

    Anything from your UNLV studio repertoire is sufficient. If you sang at Solo and Ensemble, that song is perfect. No need to learn a new one. If you aren't currently in a UNLV voice studio, prepare a song that you feel best demonstrates your technical and artistic musical skills.

  2. Sight-sing both melodies and harmonies of your chosen range.

    For example, a bass will sing both the soprano part and the bass part of a hymn. Sopranos will be asked to sing the alto line in addition to the soprano line.

    Here are links to different types of sight-singing practice materials. Any of these types is fair game for the audition. Feel free to use these for your own practice.

    • SATB Level 3: This is the ideal level all singers should aim for.
    • Bach Chorales: This is very advanced sight-singing, but if the previous level is easy for you, these are good practice.

    The sight-singing material will be shared with you during the audition. You will have a minute to look it over and practice before singing.

  3. Perform your part from the following octavo:

    Bone Pastor by Thomas Tallis SATB (may be found on Choral Public Domain Library, key of F Major)

    Be prepared to sing a small section or the entire work on one voice part of your choosing. You may use music for this portion of the interview.

  4. Tell me about the composer, the text, language, time period, and style of this piece of music,

    along with any techniques singers should use to make a properly-informed performance.

    Every singer has different strengths and areas for improvement. Don’t worry about being perfect, just do your best. Take your preparation seriously. It doesn’t help us or you if your audition isn’t representative of your best ability.

Audition and Voicing FAQ

What should I expect in my audition?

This audition is a chance to meet you and decide which choral ensemble is best suited to you at this time. First, you will be led through a series of vocal exercises, and then you will be asked to sing a familiar tune or song selection unaccompanied. The directors will evaluate your range, tone quality, intonation, and musicality. Those wishing to be considered for UNLV Singers will then be asked to complete short exercises listed below.

Where is BMC 159?

Beam Music Center (BMC) is located in the northeastern corner of UNLV’s main campus, at the intersection of South Maryland Parkway and University Avenue. There are northern and southern entry doors. BMC 159 is located in the southern part of the building. There will be a table with student choir members outside the door to help you register.

When should I arrive?

Please arrive 10 minutes before your audition time. It is recommended that you warm up on your own before the audition. You will be greeted by student members of the choral ensembles, who will verify your time and make sure you have all of the necessary materials to conduct your audition. We will have two practice rooms available for warming up.

What if I've never sung in a choir before?

That's perfectly okay! Choral auditions are for placement in the ensemble(s) that will best suit you. Email us with any questions.

Contact

Thank you for your interest. If you have questions, please contact us.