August 16, 2009 - Well applications have started arriving in the office for our upcoming November auditions and so have some questions, so I thought I'd do a brief blog post to try and answer some of them.
Do you audition in New York or only in Baltimore?
Only in Baltimore. We are very proud to have achieved a high enough profile and level of respect in the industry that singers come from all over the country to audition for us. Nothing against New York; we just don't feel the need to go there to hold auditions.
Do you only hold auditions once a year?
No, we generally hold two sets of auditions. One in November and one somewhere between mid-February and mid-March. Be aware, however, that some roles are cast from the November auditions so that there are often fewer roles open for the late winter set.
Do I have to sing something from the actual operas you are casting?
Not necessarily, but if you don't have arias from the actual operas we're casting, then you should have arias which demonstrate similar vocal demands to those of the role that you are interested in. Your ability to sing "O mio babbino caro" doesn't really speak to your ability to sing the role of Donna Anna or Lucia or Cleopatra. Also, make sure that there's actually a role in the season that is appropriate for your voice type.
If I'm not granted an audition do you still keep my application fee?
No. If we determine that we cannot grant you an audition, we will destroy your check or money order rather than depositing it.
How important are my headshot and resume?
Very. Next to the quality of your audition itself, they are the most important parts of your package. Resumés that are sloppy or confusing or disingenuous, that are filled with typographical errors, or that are poorly designed as well as headshots that are outdated or don't give an accurate picture of you are signs that you are not serious about your art and that you do not have the level of professionalism that most companies are seeking. I highly recommend that you enlist the services of professional graphic designers and photographers to create these important components of your package. Dave Cooper (www.davekcooper.com) is an example of someone who can create all of these components in a polished, professional, and cost-effective manner.
Do you provide an accompanist?
Yes, and your application fee goes mostly to covering their services.
If I've missed any other questions, let me know and I'll answer them in future posts. One last thing before I sign off. Male singers - send in your materials. Just because the ladies outnumber you industry-wide does not mean that companies want to always be in the position of finding you rather than you expressing interest in being cast by them.
See you at the auditions and at the opera!
Labels: auditions
