Due to current COVID restrictions, Bach Society will be conducting our Spring 2022 auditions virtually. Prospective new members are required to audition. For our returning members, auditions are not required.
To audition, please first fill out this form. Secondly, please email a video recording of yourself playing a classical piece to bach@columbia.edu by 12 pm on Sunday, January 23rd. Instrumentalists should prepare 2 pages from any piece of your choice; singers should prepare a full piece of your choice.
If you have additional questions, don't hesitate to contact us at bach@columbia.edu or via our contact form. We're incredibly excited to hear you perform!
To audition, please first fill out this form. Secondly, please email a video recording of yourself playing a classical piece to bach@columbia.edu by 12 pm on Sunday, January 23rd. Instrumentalists should prepare 2 pages from any piece of your choice; singers should prepare a full piece of your choice.
If you have additional questions, don't hesitate to contact us at bach@columbia.edu or via our contact form. We're incredibly excited to hear you perform!
Audition FAQs
The FAQs below were written when auditions were in-person, so they may not be completely accurate, especially in regards to audition logistics. Still, they are kept here for your reference.
Will the audition be a frightening experience?
Not at all! The audition is held in an informal and casual atmosphere and should not take more than 15 minutes. We will also ask you a few questions about your experiences performing in musical groups.
What do you look for in an audition?
We evaluate prospective performers based on three criteria: (i) technical prowess, (ii) musicality (especially related to historical performance practice and style), and (iii) ensemble fit. Ultimately, we evaluate on a holistic basis rather than on a purely musical level, so we encourage all those interested to audition. Our decision making process takes into account all auditionees and the kind of ensemble (not soloists) we ultimately want to build.
What level of musical ability are you looking for?
We are particularly looking for intermediate to advanced level performers to join our group. Competition has been increasing over the years, and we are constantly looking for opportunities to raise the performance level of the Bach Society. Although we aim to be as inclusive as possible, this is not an ensemble where you learn how to play an instrument; if you are looking for lessons, we would recommend that you look into the Music Department's offerings.
What if I missed the auditions but I still want to join?
Send an email to the board at bach@columbia.edu or contact us via our contact form. Depending on the time of the year, and your instrument/voice, you may still be able to audition at one of our rehearsals and perform in the concert.
Will the audition be a frightening experience?
Not at all! The audition is held in an informal and casual atmosphere and should not take more than 15 minutes. We will also ask you a few questions about your experiences performing in musical groups.
What do you look for in an audition?
We evaluate prospective performers based on three criteria: (i) technical prowess, (ii) musicality (especially related to historical performance practice and style), and (iii) ensemble fit. Ultimately, we evaluate on a holistic basis rather than on a purely musical level, so we encourage all those interested to audition. Our decision making process takes into account all auditionees and the kind of ensemble (not soloists) we ultimately want to build.
What level of musical ability are you looking for?
We are particularly looking for intermediate to advanced level performers to join our group. Competition has been increasing over the years, and we are constantly looking for opportunities to raise the performance level of the Bach Society. Although we aim to be as inclusive as possible, this is not an ensemble where you learn how to play an instrument; if you are looking for lessons, we would recommend that you look into the Music Department's offerings.
What if I missed the auditions but I still want to join?
Send an email to the board at bach@columbia.edu or contact us via our contact form. Depending on the time of the year, and your instrument/voice, you may still be able to audition at one of our rehearsals and perform in the concert.
