- How good do I have to be to sing with NYCA? The members of NYCA come from a variety of different backgrounds. Typical NYCA members are singers studying music at university, sing with Australia’s better amateur chamber choirs, are the better young singers from community choirs or are graduates from selective high school choirs. Some members are professional musicians with extensive vocal training while others have little or no formal training. Competent sight-reading skills are required, as is good pitch and tone control. If in doubt, audition!
- What is a typical season like? Intensive. Fun. Rewarding. Exhausting. Seasons generally last from seven to ten days and you should expect the first performance to be within three days of the first rehearsal. Here you’ll find a sample timetable to give you an idea of what to expect. The NYCA facebook group is a great place to ask questions.
- What’s in it for me? Here are a few things that singers have gained from past seasons. The opportunity to work with a world-renowned conductor. Improved sight-reading. Stronger ensemble skills. The thrill of presenting a high standard concert after only a few days rehearsal. Interesting and talented friends across Australia. Experiences of a different city or country. Improved vocal technique. New warm up and rehearsal techniques for conductors and teachers.
- How much does it cost? The 2012 season cost is $400 for students but people who are working may have to pay a higher amount. This includes your accommodation, some meals and all sheet music.
- How do I get my music? Music will be posted out prior to the season. It is expected that singers will study the music before the season starts.
- Where will I be staying? Each season varies with different accommodation options. In past seasons, singers have had to either book and pay for their own accommodation or have been billeted with local singers. In 2012 all NYCA singers have accommodation provided by Duchesne College on the University of Queensland campus.
- What do I need to bring? Along with the normal things you bring on any trip, you should bring the following: formal black performance clothes (long sleeved shirts and pants for men, at least three-quarter-length sleeves and skirts past your knees with black stockings or long pants for women); black folder; pencil and eraser; if you are billeted, bring a gift for your billets.
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