Please call to schedule an audition/placement hearing time:
(630) 369-9679
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Auditions: Frequently Asked Questions
Who can audition/come to placement hearings?
Any boy or girl who enjoy singing and will be in grades 2—6, this coming Fall, can audition.
How long is the "hearing" 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.
Children will:
- sing a familiar song (“Happy Birthday” or "Are You Sleeping?")
- 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
- other fun musical activities
- 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 YFVS.
Why do I need to call the YNS office to set up an 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 YFVS accept all children or do we turn anyone away?
YFVS believes that all children can sing. Choir levels are based on musical ability and not necessarily on age. YFVS 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. There will be two levels of YFVS this coming season to accommodate the development of all singers.
Does YFVS offer scholarships?
Yes, scholarships are available for families in need of financial assistance.
How often does YFVS rehearse?
Each choir rehearses once a week. YFVS follows the school year of Districts 308, 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).
What is the tuition for YFVS? What does it cover?
The tuition rate for the Young Fox Valley Singers will be determined in May for 2010; the 2009-2010 rate is $414. It is non—refundable, except when there is a documented medical reason or if a family is transferred out of the Fox Valley area. We ask that half of the tuition be paid by June 15th, with the remaining tuition due August 1st. If this tuition schedule will create a financial hardship for your family, we will gladly set—up a monthly payment plan. Credit card payment is also an option.
Tuition partially covers vocal training and high caliber musical instruction as well as materials, supplies, music, folders, mailings, general operating expenses and staff salaries. Parents are responsible for purchasing formal concert uniforms, a choir t-shirt and concert tickets.
Does the organization fund raise?
Fund raising is a significant portion of our revenue. Each family has a fund raising commitment that varies from choir to choir. There are a variety of opportunities for fund raising during the choir year. Parents also have the option to buy-out of this commitment. Families with more than one child in Young Fox Valley Singers/Young Naperville Singers have only one fund raising component.
What happens after the placement hearing?
Several weeks after the audition, you will receive a letter of acceptance and choir placement.
Where are the hearings held?
Church of the Good Shepherd, 5 W. Washington, Oswego, IL (on the corner of Rt. 34 and Washington in downtown Oswego).
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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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