We offer two string orchestras as training preparation to play in the larger Symphonic Orchestras: Intermezzo Strings and Prelude Strings. Visit our website to learn about rehearsal locations and audition requirements.
Chorissima is the concert, recording, and touring ensemble of the San Francisco Girls Chorus, and is conducted by Artistic Director Susan McMane. The dedicated young artists of the ensemble, ages 12-18 years old, present a season concert series in the San Francisco Bay Area, tour nationally and internationally, and appear annually with renowned artistic partners, such as San Francisco Opera and San Francisco Symphony. Membership in Chorissima is by audition, after graduation from the Chorus School.
Emphasis is placed on more complex and challenging music, in addition to more demanding expectations for the refinement of sight-singing skills. Comprehension and vocalizing of musical phrasing is more complex at this level. Vocal technique is expected to become more consistent, and greater agility and practice are necessary to hear and learn music in more foreign languages. There are high expectations for the development of chorister independence in work ethic and also in rehearsal techniques.
Level III extends the challenging program of music repertoire, musical concepts, and performing experiences. The expectations and personal responsibility of choristers are increased, the training is more intensive, and the rewards become more fulfilling. Choristers are exposed to an expanded three-part repertoire in two to three additional languages and more advanced concepts of choral singing are introduced. Choristers who work conscientiously in Level III should have little difficulty in progressing toward the standards that are required for advancement to Level IV.
Level III extends the challenging program of music repertoire, musical concepts, and performing experiences. The expectations and personal responsibility of choristers are increased, the training is more intensive, and the rewards become more fulfilling. Choristers are exposed to an expanded three-part repertoire in two to three additional languages and more advanced concepts of choral singing are introduced. Choristers who work conscientiously in Level III should have little difficulty in progressing toward the standards that are required for advancement to Level IV.
Level II offers a greater diversity in individual attentiveness, repertoire, vocal skills, theory requirements, and performance demands. To enter Level II, choristers must demonstrate basic vocal and musical competence, and additionally they must master elementary sight-singing concepts and skills. At this level, choristers learn to be more confident and more independent in their work. Rehearsal concentration and performance demands are increased in Level II.
Level II offers a greater diversity in individual attentiveness, repertoire, vocal skills, theory requirements, and performance demands. To enter Level II, choristers must demonstrate basic vocal and musical competence, and additionally they must master elementary sight-singing concepts and skills. At this level, choristers learn to be more confident and more independent in their work. Rehearsal concentration and performance demands are increased in Level II.
The Concert Chorus is the most select group, regularly performing at civic events and San Francisco Opera productions, as well as producing CDs. The Chorus recently performed at the Swearing In Ceremony of the Inauguration of Barack Obama, 44th President of the United Stats of America, at the United States Capitol, Washington, DC.
The Intermediate Chorus (Level IV) is one step away from the semi-professional touring Concert Chorus and represents a chorister’s ability to sing consistently, clearly, and flexibly across his vocal range (soprano, soprano-2, alto). Choristers study and perform highly complex three-part literature with consonant and dissonant harmonies, reflecting their ability to hold a vocal part in 3-part harmony using a strong, focused sound and ability to read extended pentatonic melodies and passages.
The Intermediate Chorus (Level IV) is one step away from the semi-professional touring Concert Chorus and represents a chorister’s ability to sing consistently, clearly, and flexibly across his vocal range (soprano, soprano-2, alto). Choristers study and perform highly complex three-part literature with consonant and dissonant harmonies, reflecting their ability to hold a vocal part in 3-part harmony using a strong, focused sound and ability to read extended pentatonic melodies and passages.