Audition

Voci is an auditioned women’s chorus of 24-30 members who sing interesting, challenging, and beautiful choral music from all style periods.

To set up an audition, email Karla Sagramoso at ksagramoso@gmail.com.

Here’s a short “About Voci” video:

Title screen of Voci video

Also consider attending one of our Concerts to learn more about our group!

Frequently asked questions

What are Voci’s COVID-19 protocols?

To protect the health of Voci members, we’re taking the following safety precautions:

  • We ask that all singers keep up with current vaccinations against COVID-19.
  • We rehearse in a large, well ventilated room.
  • We rehearse in two curved rows, with plenty of space between singers.
  • Masks are optional during rehearsals.
  • Sick singers are required either to stay home or to be masked and sit separately from the chorus.
  • We perform without masks but adhere to strict testing procedures as needed.

What kind of musical experience should I have to audition for Voci?

You should be an experienced female choral singer with at least basic music reading skills.

When are auditions held, and what is the audition process?

Auditions are typically held in July/August and late December/early January, but we welcome your expressions of interest year-round.

We know that auditions can be stressful, so we try to keep auditions as informal and friendly as possible. Here is how we’ve done past auditions:

  • You sing some vocalizations to help you warm up and explore your range.
  • You’re asked to sing one verse of the Christmas carol Silent Night, a cappella, to check intonation.
  • You’re given a sight-singing test. This consists of a series of melodies that start out quite easy and get increasingly difficult.
  • You sing a solo of your choice, a cappella. It could be a folk song or an aria or anything in between. Choose something that shows off your voice and that you are comfortable singing.

The audition takes about 20 minutes.

What is Voci’s schedule?

See our 2026 Spring Calendar

When and where does Voci rehearse?

Voci rehearses Wednesday evenings from 7:30 to 9:45 PM in Orinda. Additional vocal retreats, rehearsals and sectional rehearsals are planned each season (fall season: August/September – December; spring season: January – May). Voci takes a summer break from rehearsals from May (after Voci’s last concert) through August.

When and where does Voci perform?

Performances are usually in the East Bay: Oakland/Berkeley and Lafayette. Voci typically has four public concerts each year — two at the end of the fall season, and two at the end of the spring season — plus a fundraising event in the spring.

What are the financial and time obligations for Voci singers?

Dues and music cost $300 per season and $100 for the summer fundraiser, with some scholarships available. A one-time costume purchase of less than $50 is required.

Singers are expected to attend all pre-scheduled rehearsals, retreats and performances. Prospective singers should discuss any potential conflicts during their audition.

What kind of music does Voci sing?

Voci performs beautiful and adventurous music from a wide range of historical periods, and is committed to performing and commissioning music written for, and by, women. For a full list of the works that Voci has performed, see our Repertoire page.

What practice materials does Voci provide?     

Voci provides recordings and YouTube links to help members learn their music. In addition, Voci encourages each voice section to rehearse, as needed, before or after the regular rehearsal time.

Are members expected to contribute in other ways besides preparing for performances?     

As Voci is a self-run organization, individual members are asked to help with Voci’s various operations, including chorus management, concert production, fundraising, and communications/marketing. Contact the chorus manager (chorus@vocisings.org) for specific information.

Is there a strict attendance policy?     

Singers are expected to be punctual and present for all pre-scheduled rehearsals, retreats, dress rehearsals, and performances as listed on the semester calendar. Any conflicts need to be reported to the chorus manager as soon as they arise. For more information, see the attendance section of the Voci Handbook.

Is there financial assistance if membership fees are beyond my budget?

Voci offers scholarships to singers based on need. New singers should reach out to the treasurer at the time of registration at admin@vocisings.org.

Where can I find out more about Voci?

Watch our short “About Voci” video. Find out more about Voci on this website, including:

Also listen to our YouTube channel, subscribe to our email list, and follow Voci on Facebook or on Instagram.

©Voci Women’s Vocal Ensemble 2020–2026