About The Fellowship
The Cleveland Orchestra Chorus offers fellowships for undergraduate and graduate students pursuing a degree in a music-related field. Up to three Shari Bierman Singer Fellowships may be granted per season, each in the amount of $3,500. Students must have demonstrable skill, evidenced through a combination of academic and musical talent, GPA, and performance ability. Applicants must be able to commit to the full rehearsal and performance schedule of the Cleveland Orchestra Chorus.
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In addition to performing alongside The Cleveland Orchestra, Fellows will receive opportunities to be mentored by staff of The Cleveland Orchestra, participate in one-one-one conversations with guest artists, and develop skills specific to their intended career path. Examples of this might include coachings with Daniel Overly, our Collaborative Pianist, meetings with our Marketing Team on building your personal brand and online presence, or a discussion with the Artistic Administrative Staff about career-pathing and getting hired as a professional musician.
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College undergraduate and graduate level students pursuing a vocal performance, music education, conducting, or similar music-related degree during the 2023-2024 academic year.
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Students must be enrolled full-time.
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Students must have a GPA of 3.0 or higher.
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Students must be fully vaccinated and boosted (if it has been six months since initial vaccine series).
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Students must be able to commit to the full rehearsal and performance schedule of the Cleveland Orchestra Chorus.
Rehearsals & Performances
The Cleveland Orchestra Chorus (COC) rehearses on Monday evenings from 7:00pm – 10:00pm in Beachwood, with some additional Sunday evenings and every night during concert weeks. Members of the COC perform with The Cleveland Orchestra in subscription and holiday concerts at Severance Music Center.
Applications will be opening soon for the 2023-2024 season.
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APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS:
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Fill out the online application
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When scheduling your audition, you will be asked for proof of COVID-19 vaccination (typically a photo or PDF).
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Performance resume.
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One letter of reference supporting musical background and character from current or most recent studio/private director or ensemble director.
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A personal statement about how your participation as a chorus member would contribute to your long-term goals (not to exceed 500 words).
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A copy of your most recent transcript (an unofficial transcript is acceptable).
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The Audition
AUDITION REQUIREMENTS:
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Perform two contrasting solos. At least one selection should be in Italian, French, or German.
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Sight-read selections of the director’s choice, with accompaniment.
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Sing scales, arpeggios, or other technical exercises as directed.
COVID-19
Safety Measures
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Chorus singers are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 before auditioning.
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A series of three doses (initial series plus one booster) is required for participation in the Cleveland Orchestra Choruses.
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Proof of vaccination (typically a photo or PDF file) will be requested at the time of scheduling your audition appointment.
In memory of
Shari Bierman Singer
Shari Bierman Singer was a member of the Cleveland Orchestra Chorus for 25 years. The Shari Bierman Singer Fellowship, created in her memory, provides financial assistance for two Cleveland Orchestra Chorus members pursuing full-time undergraduate or graduate level studies in vocal performance, music education, conducting, or similar music-related fields. Financial assistance awarded through the Fellowship program serves as a tribute to Shari’s commitment to music education and the Cleveland Orchestra Chorus.