Join Washington Men’s Camerata for weekly rehearsals, Wednesdays, September through May, 7:30-10pm at The First Baptist Church of the City of Washington, DC (16th & O St NW). Interested tenors and basses can sign up to audition for the director for about 10 minutes, demonstrating scales, range, agility, tuning, listening, memory, and a self-selected solo which may be sung with or without accompaniment.
Open Houses, where you can watch rehearsals and meet members, are December 3, March 4, and May 27. Stay as long as you like. Enjoy a complimentary snack and mingling during break around 9pm.
Additional audition opportunities are available in July, August, and September.
We are more than just a chorus. We are a community dedicated to creating an inclusive space where all feel welcomed and affirmed, regardless of race, age, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, or any other identity. We promote diversity and are devoted to reflecting the multicultural palette of the DMV in our membership and repertoire. We believe in the power of music to bring all people together.
Talented singers join the Camerata because they have a genuine love for singing and performing. Our members also find the Camerata to be an accepting, welcoming community that values equality and individuality. For all those who join, it becomes a close-knit family; a wonderful place to meet people, make new friends, and engage in enjoyable and meaningful activities. Every member is on a personal journey of growth, and no matter where they are on that journey, our community is always there to provide support.
While your natural singing talent is our primary focus, having a foundational understanding of reading music is considered essential due to our fast-paced rehearsals. Experience or training in singing, particularly in choral music, is highly preferred. Our group takes pride in the exceptional sound achieved through our members' diverse backgrounds. We welcome talented individuals eager to refine their innate abilities and encourage auditions for those seeking to showcase their talents.
Three-hour weekly rehearsals, September through May, plus two concerts in the winter and one in the spring and summer. Joining does involve making a commitment. Members are allowed to miss a limited number of rehearsals for work or family-related prior commitments, but they are responsible for making up any learning missed. There's also a September weekend day retreat, October weekend recording, and prior to each concert, one extra weekend day rehearsal and one dress rehearsal, typically Fridays. There are several other performance opportunities, often with a small group, that we share about far in advance and ask for sign up based on your availability.
Dues are $200 a season, which is moderate for the area. This goes towards purchasing and licensing of sheet music, rehearsal space, staff, supplies, and venue rental. Dues are waived for those with financial hardship. Each member is individually responsible for purchasing and maintaining concert attire and a black binder. We ask members to participate in our ticket selling and fundraising efforts as well.