Frequently asked questions - Australian Youth Choir

Auditions
How often does the Australian Youth Choir hold auditions?
Auditions are conducted annually, usually during term 3 or 4 for commencement in term 1 the following year. Alternate times can be arranged through your state office.
How do I arrange an audition?
Appointments for auditions are arranged by telephoning the state office
Students from 7 years of age are eligible to audition for a place.
What happens at the audition?
The audition is conducted in a small group (for confidence) and takes approximately 10 minutes. Students are given a series of exercises designed to ascertain their aural skill and vocal accuracy. There is no need to prepare a special song.
How do I know if my child is successful?
All Students are notified in writing of the outcome of the audition and are offered a place in either Level 1(Probationer) or Level 2(Training Choir)

Rehearsals
What happens in rehearsals?
Students attend a weekly rehearsal, which offers training in the curriculum and includes preparation for performances. Parents are invited to attend an open rehearsal each term to view the teaching process.
What is the parental commitment?
Students attend one rehearsal per week for one hour at the rehearsal centre of your choice. See our contact page for your most convenient rehearsal centre.
Level 1 - Probationer Choir rehearse 6pm - 7pm
Level 2 - Training Choir rehearse 7.15pm - 8.15pm
Level 3 - Performing Choir rehearse 7.15pm - 8.45pm and attend 2 workshop sessions during the year. These five hour workshops are held on either a Saturday or Sunday

Specialist Choirs (requiring a further audition)
Recital Choir rehearse Friday 6pm - 7.30pm (in addition to normal weekly rehearsal)
Chamber Choir rehearse Friday 6pm - 9pm (places are allocated by annual audition)
All students attend and annual Performing Arts School, (3 day workshop held during a holiday period.) Members of the Chamber Choir may also audition for a place at the National Performing Arts School held in October school holidays each year.

Rehearsals are not conducted during the school holidays or on Public holidays with the exception of the Performing arts school.

How is progress monitored?
Student progress is monitored through rehearsal and curriculum work. Two assessments are undertaken each year and parents are furnished with a report in November.

Concerts
How often will my child perform?
The Choir performs at 3 Major concerts each year, May and October/November concerts are shared presentations with the National Youth Dance Theatre, August Concerts often involve a presentation with an international group
How do I purchase tickets?
Ticket forms are made available to families via the 3 weekly newsletter or by telephoning your state office for a booking form.
Do I need to purchase a ticket for my child?
Students who are performing do not need to purchase a ticket.

Fees
What does it cost?
Please telephone your state office for current information regarding annual tuition fees.
Detailed advice regarding fees is included in the letter of offer sent to parents following the audition. Annual tuition Fees (Inclusive of GST) are paid in advance or through an instalment plan arranged prior to commencement in February. In the first year, a registration fee covering music copyright, legal and insurance costs is also applicable. Tuition fees include the cost of weekly rehearsals and rehearsal materials and range from $450 - $610 dependent on the level and hours of rehearsal required. A separate payment is made in June/ July for Performing Arts School

The National Institute of Youth Performing Arts does not receive any financial support from corporate industry or any government authority.

Uniform
Will I need to buy a uniform?
Uniform requirements are outlined in your letter of acceptance.
A performance Robe will be needed for the first concert and is available from our uniform suppliers Buxwear Frimley.
The rehearsal uniform comprises: Gold shirt, navy trousers or skirt, navy socks
(knee high for girls) Navy tie, navy monogrammed jumper (all available from Buxwear Frimley) Black school shoes. Order forms and price list are posted to parents with their acceptance letter.

The Staff
The Choir engages tertiary qualified music education specialists with expertise in choral music. Staff biographies are published with newsletters at the beginning of each year.

Tours
Will my child be required to tour?
Touring is NOT a compulsory activity for choristers.
Parents are advised in writing each year of the proposed itinerary and invited to arrange an audition for their child, should they wish them to be involved. All costs related to the tour are outlined in the letter and are borne by parents.

The Australian Youth Choir does not undertake fund raising.

Please contact your nearest office for any further information you may require