NSCS Audition and Membership FAQs
Now entering our 88th season, the North Shore Choral Society is a close-knit group of over 100 dedicated singers from all over the Chicago area. NSCS is a welcoming, inclusive community for all participants and patrons. We respect, value, and celebrate the unique attributes, characteristics, and perspectives that shape each individual.
Is NSCS accepting new members?
Auditions for our 88th season are closed at this time. However, NSCS Music Director, Dr. Julia Davids, assesses our section balance on an ongoing basis and may occasionally accept new members mid-season. Check this space early in 2024 for any updates.
What happens at a NSCS audition?
Dr. Davids will lead you through a series of musical exercises during which you must exhibit basic music literacy, including secure intonation and a good quality tone. Auditions are private, and It is not necessary to prepare anything in advance.
What is the rehearsal schedule?
NSCS rehearsals are held on Tuesdays, 7:30-9:45 pm, beginning right after Labor Day up to our final concert in June, with time off during the holidays. An on-site “dress” rehearsal is held before each concert.
When and where does NSCS perform?
Each season, NSCS generally performs three concerts as well as a Holiday Concert with the Evanston Symphony Orchestra. Our 88th Season theme is “Dynamic Duos,” with concerts scheduled for November 12, December 3, March 3, and June 2. For concert titles, locations, and repertoire, see here.
What are NSCS dues and other expenses?
Annual dues are $100 ($30 for full-time students). Members also purchase the music scores for each concert (which are then yours to keep) as well as reasonably-priced uniform concert attire.
What is the attendance policy?
Attendance at rehearsals and participation in ALL concerts is an expectation of NSCS membership. Members with more than three absences during a single concert preparation period may be required to see the Music Director for a singing review.
What are NSCS’ current Covid protocols?
At present, NSCS has a mask-optional policy. We require that all members be up to date on all Covid vaccines and available boosters. For more details, please refer to our NSCS Safe Singing protocols here.
What other information do I need before auditioning?
Please review our Expectations Statement: North Shore Choral Society strives to provide our audiences and members with outstanding musical experiences. By accepting membership in NSCS you are agreeing to do your best to attend all rehearsals on time and in their entirety and to participate in all performances. This allows us to support each other and to perform to the best of our abilities. We do understand that there will be occasional conflicts with rehearsals and possibly even with a performance. Early communication about conflicts is essential. While you may feel that your absence will not harm the ensemble, NSCS is a team and we need all singers to be fully committed to the organization.
Is NSCS accepting new members?
Auditions for our 88th season are closed at this time. However, NSCS Music Director, Dr. Julia Davids, assesses our section balance on an ongoing basis and may occasionally accept new members mid-season. Check this space early in 2024 for any updates.
What happens at a NSCS audition?
Dr. Davids will lead you through a series of musical exercises during which you must exhibit basic music literacy, including secure intonation and a good quality tone. Auditions are private, and It is not necessary to prepare anything in advance.
What is the rehearsal schedule?
NSCS rehearsals are held on Tuesdays, 7:30-9:45 pm, beginning right after Labor Day up to our final concert in June, with time off during the holidays. An on-site “dress” rehearsal is held before each concert.
When and where does NSCS perform?
Each season, NSCS generally performs three concerts as well as a Holiday Concert with the Evanston Symphony Orchestra. Our 88th Season theme is “Dynamic Duos,” with concerts scheduled for November 12, December 3, March 3, and June 2. For concert titles, locations, and repertoire, see here.
What are NSCS dues and other expenses?
Annual dues are $100 ($30 for full-time students). Members also purchase the music scores for each concert (which are then yours to keep) as well as reasonably-priced uniform concert attire.
What is the attendance policy?
Attendance at rehearsals and participation in ALL concerts is an expectation of NSCS membership. Members with more than three absences during a single concert preparation period may be required to see the Music Director for a singing review.
What are NSCS’ current Covid protocols?
At present, NSCS has a mask-optional policy. We require that all members be up to date on all Covid vaccines and available boosters. For more details, please refer to our NSCS Safe Singing protocols here.
What other information do I need before auditioning?
Please review our Expectations Statement: North Shore Choral Society strives to provide our audiences and members with outstanding musical experiences. By accepting membership in NSCS you are agreeing to do your best to attend all rehearsals on time and in their entirety and to participate in all performances. This allows us to support each other and to perform to the best of our abilities. We do understand that there will be occasional conflicts with rehearsals and possibly even with a performance. Early communication about conflicts is essential. While you may feel that your absence will not harm the ensemble, NSCS is a team and we need all singers to be fully committed to the organization.
