Saturday, March 2, 2024
First Congregational Church, 1200 Clark St, Rapid City, SD
The competition will begin at 9:00 a.m. with a break for lunch at 12:00 p.m. There will be two competing categories auditioning concurrently – the lower division for 9th and 10th grades and the upper division for 11th and 12th grades. However, if a student in the 10th grade wishes to compete in the upper division, they may do so. Each student will be required to perform two pieces of contrasting styles; both pieces are to be memorized, at least one of which will be in a foreign language. Broadway showtunes or popular music are not permitted. Students will need to provide their own accompanists.
First, second and third place winners from the upper division will be featured on the Dakota Choral Union spring concert, April 21 at 3:00 p.m. at South Canyon Lutheran Church. Monetary awards will be given to the first, second and third place winners in the upper division and an honorable mention will be awarded to the highest score in the lower division.
These are open auditions. Students are encouraged to listen to each other’s auditions. Each student will have 8 minutes to perform their two pieces, after which the student will have a 5-minute mini-lesson with one of the judges. We want this to be an educational experience in a supportive and positive environment.
After lunch there will be a group session of vocal warm ups and exercises led by one of our vocal professionals. Announcements of the winners will follow the group session.
The registration fee is $20. If your student is planning on staying for lunch, there will be an additional $5 fee that will be payable the day of the competition. Competition criteria and registration form linked HERE.
Please mail the application and the registration fees by February 21, 2024 to:
Dakota Choral Union
Attn: Young Vocal Artist Competition
PO Box 9083
Rapid City, SD 57709