2025 Auditions have concluded. Please check back in Dec. 2025 for information on 2026 audition dates.

Chicago a cappella will be holding auditions for all voice parts in November of 2025.

AUDITION DETAILS

The audition will consist of singing two contrasting selections.  One of your prepared selections should be a classical aria or art song, and the other a decidedly non-classical selection. One selection should be sung in a language other than English.  Together these should showcase your technical prowess and stylistic and vocal versatility.  Among other things, we’ll be evaluating intonation, diction, tone, voice size, vocal versatility, and stage presence. Off-book performance is preferred though not required. An accompanist will be provided; please bring sheet music for the accompanist. Due to time constraints, we may not hear the entirety of both prepared pieces. You may also be asked to vocalize for range purposes and/or perform a short ear-training exercise.

 To request an audition, e-mail a note of interest and resume, indicating your voice part and your preferred audition day to Matthew Brennan at mbrennan@chicagoacappella.org.  If your resume doesn’t capture your professional choral experience and other qualifications below, please outline those in the email. Requests from qualified applicants will be accommodated on a first-come, first-served basis.

 Auditions take place:

• Thursday, November 6, 2025 3:30-6:45pm in Oak Park, IL
• Wednesday, November 12, 2025, 3:30-6:45pm in Oak Park, IL

Successful auditionees may be asked to attend callbacks in winter/spring 2026.

QUALIFICATIONS

The following musical skills are required from ensemble members:

Strong solo technique; technical ability to sing fully-voiced with healthy vibrato, at a variety of dynamic ranges, and without vibrato; strong sight-reading skills; with experience in traditional and contemporary music, as well as a strong ear for new styles that may be unfamiliar; expertise at holding a vocal line individually within a group; strong stage presence; ability to respond quickly to instruction in rehearsal; superb language skills (knowledge of IPA strongly preferred). Generally a minimum of 2 years singing at a professional level is expected, but not required.

CHICAGO A CAPPELLA

Chicago a cappella spans a repertoire from Gregorian chant to the Beatles and beyond. Under the leadership of Artistic Director John William Trotter, the group presents concerts with musical preparation by Trotter and guest music directors.  Known for creative programming and a personal connection to audiences, Chicago a cappella performs an annual series with concerts in Chicago, Evanston, Oak Park, and Naperville, with occasional guest appearances in town or on tour.  Current pay rates are $248 per performance for series concerts and $40/hour for rehearsals.  Typically, our series concert programs each involve 8 rehearsals and 4-6 performances. 

There are currently no employment opportunities available.

Arts Administration & Production Assistant (Temporary / Part-time)

Chicago a cappella is seeking an Arts Administration & Production Assistant to support the company’s operations during the 2025-26 season, gaining hands-on experience while contributing to our mission of advancing the art and appreciation of ensemble singing.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Specific responsibilities will be based on staff needs, with areas of activity likely to include concert production and stage management, music library, artistic administration, and general office administration.  Specifically, these may include:

• Act as backstage manager at seven concert performances (December and April)
• Provide administrative support to the organization’s staff
• Update online music library database and other music library tasks
• Help prepare materials for upcoming events, concerts and programs
• Support communication efforts (drafting correspondence, updating contact lists, etc.)
• Organize and maintain physical and digital files

QUALIFICATIONS

Candidate must be between the ages of 14 and 22 when starting the position. Interest in arts administration, music, or nonprofit management, and motivation to learn. Other qualifications sought include reliability, strong organizational and communication skills, and general computer competence.

SCHEDULE

One day per week in the office during regular office hours plus additional hours at concerts/events, which are typically weekends and evenings, with the expectation of 240 hours total during the 2025-26 season. This position begins no earlier than Nov. 3, 2025, and ends no later than May 29, 2026.  A specific work schedule and exact start and end dates will be arranged with the successful candidate to accommodate availability and the company’s requirements.

COMPENSATION

$16.60/hour, paid on a bi-weekly basis

COMMENTS

We are a dynamic, well-run arts organization, recognized by our peers for both our artistic reputation and our organizational achievements. Previous staff members have secured jobs at Chicago Shakespeare Theatre, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, WFMT, Museum of Science and Industry, and elsewhere.

CONTACT

Email resume and brief cover letter detailing schedule availability and why you are interested in the position to Matt Greenberg at MGreenberg@chicagoacappella.org.