Auditions

Please call to schedule an audition time: 630-369-9679

Auditions: Frequently Asked Questions

Who can audition?

Any boy or girl who will be in grades 1- 12 can audition.

How long is the audition and what will my child do?

The audition is about 20 minutes long.  Children do not need to prepare anything ahead of time.  We understand that many children do not have highly developed singing skills.  During the audition we want to find out as much as possible about the child’s musical skills and musical potential.

Young children (in grades 1 - 4) will:
- sing a familiar song (“Happy Birthday”)
- play a game where they will be asked to repeat a rhythm clapped by a director
- match pitches with their voices that have been played on the piano

Older children (in grades 5-12) will:
- sing “My Country ’Tis of Thee”
- do a series of exercises for vocal range and rhythmic accuracy
- sight read a short passage of music
- do a musical survey
Please arrive 5 minutes before your scheduled appointment since parents are asked to fill out an - application form.  While the child is singing for a director, the parent will meet with a Board Member or Parent Representative and will receive information about YNS.

Why do I need to call the YNS office to set up an audition appointment?

In order to put children at ease, we place children in small groups according to their age. When you call for an audition, we will arrange this.

Does YNS accept all children or do we turn anyone away?

YNS believes that all children can sing.  Auditions are for placement in one of our five choirs.  Choir levels are based on musical ability and not necessarily on age.  YNS accepts all children who have a desire to sing and can match pitch.  If a young child has difficulty matching pitch, we may recommend waiting a year before joining.

What does the boys choir involve?

Boys are placed in one of our five levels of choirs. Boys in the intermediate and advanced groups either stay for short while after their regular choir rehearsal or come a bit earlier.  The Boys Choir sings several songs on their own at our concerts, and also hosts our Annual Boys Power Sing.

Does YNS offer scholarships?

Yes, a limited number of scholarships are available for families in need of financial assistance.

How often does YNS rehearse?

Each choir rehearses once a week.  YNS follows the school year of Districts 203 & 204, starting in late August until early May.  We do not rehearse over the summer (except the advanced choir which may be going on a concert tour.)  Please visit the choir section of this website for more detailed information regarding each choir’s tuition and their rehearsal schedule.

What happens after the audition?

Several weeks after the audition, you will receive a letter of acceptance and choir placement.

Where are the auditions held?

Community Concert Center, 55 Concert Lane, Naperville, IL
Directions:  The CCC is located in downtown Naperville ~ it’s where the band holds its concerts in the summer.  To reach the center, take Washington Street to Benton Avenue.  Turn east on Benton and go to the second street on your right, Court Place.  Turn right on Court Place and take to the end.  Turn right again.  The center will be on your right.

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What children say about YNS:

“ I sing in YNS because it expresses who I am as a person and gives me confidence.”  Audrey, age 10
“ YNS is a place to escape from the drama and stresses of life and just loose yourself in song.”  Britta, age 15
“ I like to sing in YNS because it’s fun.”  Dominic, age 6
“ When I sing it makes me feel special.”  Stephanie, age 8
“ I sing because I can express my feelings.”  Tommy, age 12
“ YNS means everything to me.  I have made wonderful friends.”  Juliana, age 15
“ YNS was one of, if not the best experience in my life so far.  It was my sanctuary in song, where I could escape the torments and constant hustle and bustle of daily life...”  Ryan, YNS alumnus, 11 year member

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For more information:
auditions@youngnapervillesingers.org