I'd love to join the chorus, but I don't know what's involved and don't want to make a fool of myself!
The only absolute requirements are to sing in tune, to have a reasonably good voice and to be able to read music. It's not necessary to be a great soloist! Why not fill in an application form?
If I get an audition, what would I have to do?
You would need to prepare a solo piece - it could be any song, or a solo from an oratorio. You can sing this from the copy or from memory, but if you do need to use the music, remember to bring another copy for the accompanist to use. The accompanist will be provided.
You will also be asked to do some sight-reading, a few aural tests and some vocal exercises to help establish your range. The auditions are held regularly and take about 10-15 minutes.
What sort of music does the chorus perform?
As a symphony chorus of some 140 voices, we tend to do primarily music from the late 18th-21st centuries, which is written for full symphony orchestra and chorus. We do smaller-scale works from time to time - we do occasional concerts on our own throughout the year as well as the annual carols concert in St David's Hall, Cardiff.
What does it cost to join?
Nothing. There is no subscription fee, and all music and folders are provided. You receive meal expenses for concerts, and transport is provided for all rehearsals and performances that take place away from the BBC in Cardiff. Travel expenses are paid if you live more than 35 miles from Cardiff.
Where do you perform?
As St David's Hall, Cardiff is the orchestra's main performance venue, most of the concerts are held there. We also perform at Brangwyn Hall, Swansea but there are a limited number of venues in Wales that can accommodate a full symphony orchestra and chorus, although we do give performances in Llandaff Cathedral, St Asaph Cathedral, St Mary's Swansea, Brecon Cathedral and at the National and International Eisteddfodau.
We perform regularly at the BBC Proms in the Royal Albert Hall, and also at venues such as the Royal Festival Hall in London, Symphony Hall in Birmingham, Cheltenham Town Hall and Worcester Cathedral.
When and where do rehearsals take place?
We rehearse at the BBC studios in Llandaff, Cardiff every Tuesday, 7.15 - 9.45 pm. Extra rehearsals are scheduled to cope with busy periods - these are often on Thursday evenings, and sometimes at weekends. You would need to attend as many rehearsals as possible - there is a minimum requirement for all concerts.
In the few days leading up to a performance, there are usually two compulsory rehearsals - both with the concert's conductor. One is a rehearsal with piano, and the other with orchestra. The other compulsory attendance is the rehearsal on the day of the concert.
What is the dress code for concerts?
Ladies need to provide their own long black dresses/skirts/wide leg trousers and tops. The men usually wear black dinner suits with white shirt and black bow tie, but sometimes black trousers with long sleeved black shirts.
What sort of people belong to the chorus?
People from all walks of life! Members include teachers, engineers, doctors, students, administrators, undertakers, homemakers, shop assistants, librarians and web producers.
How do I apply?
It couldn't be simpler! Just fill in an application form!
