Who can audition?
Anyone age 18 or older who sings tenor, baritone or bass may audition, regardless of gender, gender identity, sexual orientation or race. Musical backgrounds range from first-time chorus singers to trained musicians. Singers should be comfortable in the C3 to C4 range; higher and lower ranges help determine voice placement.
When are auditions?
The Season 49 schedule listed pre-audition rehearsals on September 8 and 14, 2026, followed by auditions on September 15 and 16. These dates have passed. Email auditions@sfgmc.org for the next opportunity.
Where do we rehearse?
Auditions and rehearsals take place at the Chan National Queer Arts Center, 170 Valencia Street, San Francisco, CA 94103. Regular rehearsals are Mondays from 7 to 9:45 p.m., including a 15-minute break, with additional sectionals and rehearsals as needed.
Membership includes dues, wardrobe costs and retreats. Financial assistance is available.
Preparing for your audition
Choose a song you feel comfortable singing, or a passage of at least 16 measures. Any genre or language is welcome. Bring printed sheet music in your preferred key; the accompanist cannot transpose it during the audition. Sheet Music Plus is one possible source.
Auditions are accompanied rather than a cappella. You may accompany yourself on an instrument or use an instrumental backing track without other vocals. Bring your own speaker for a track. If you do not have music or a track, the accompanist can help you sing “Happy Birthday.”
Membership costs and assistance
- Monthly dues: $33.34.
- One-time wardrobe cost: approximately $100 to $150.
- Retreats: typically $225 to $350 per weekend, depending on accommodation.
New Member Orientation provides complete cost information. Financial assistance through Ryan’s Fund is available in exchange for volunteer hours, with applications accepted after admission to the chorus. Finances should not prevent someone from joining.
Rehearsals and retreats
Prospective members must attend a pre-audition rehearsal. For that schedule, attendance at both was encouraged. Accepted singers were allowed four absences before the holiday show, including those two rehearsals, and attendance at the final two rehearsals was required. New Member Orientation provides the full expectations.
Each season includes two out-of-town weekend retreats and at least one in-town retreat. Full weekend participation is encouraged; Saturday attendance is required. New singers receive music and preparation guidance by email before their first rehearsal.
What to expect at your audition
Arrive no more than 15 minutes before your appointment and wear something comfortable. Email auditions@sfgmc.org if you will be late. Allow some flexibility, as appointments may run behind schedule.
You will have a brief conversation with the New Member Committee, sing your prepared selection and complete exercises to assess range, blending and harmony. Artistic Director Jacob Stensberg, section leaders and other chorus leaders form the panel, typically 12 to 18 people. Other auditionees will not be in the room.
After your audition
Results arrive by email shortly after the final audition date. If you are not accepted, you are welcome to audition again or join as a non-singing volunteer. Many members auditioned more than once.
Returning members
Alumni and new members audition on the same dates and follow the same requirements, including a solo selection. Members classified as inactive do not need to re-audition.
Questions?
Contact the New Member Coordinator at auditions@sfgmc.org for help preparing or understanding membership.
