When are auditions?
Auditions are generally held in February/March and are conducted by appointment only. Auditions at other times may be announced as needed, determined by the Artistic Director. Stay connected by signing up for our email list and connect with us on Facebook or Instagram where we will also be making audition announcements. Request an audition appointment.

What does the audition consist of?
You will be asked to sing a song (~3 min) of your choice, gospel or secular. You can sing acapella, bring sheet music for the pianist, or a personal speaker for your backing track. You will be asked to sing scales to measure your range, and a set of intervals which will first be played for you on the piano.

Is experience necessary?
OIGC is a volunteer choir with professional standards, but experience is not necessary. The director is looking for a certain degree of skill, however, as well as voices that satisfy the musical needs of the choir.

Participants should also:

• have the ability to stand for long periods of time (sets can run from 45 minutes to 1.5 hours without a break)

• have the ability to quickly navigate stairs and stages that may not have accommodations for people with limited mobility

• understand that performance schedule and call times can be physically demanding (multiple performances back to back, early morning call times, etc.)

What are the COVID protocols?
As of May 2023, OIGC does not require proof of vaccination. However, due to continuing COVID concerns, masks are required at rehearsal until further notice. Any updates in the future will be communicated and all participants in the organization are required to comply with OIGC's COVID Protocols to participate. Find OIGC’s complete COVID protocols at http://www.oigc.org/governance.

What happens after I pass the audition?
Successful completion of the audition is at the sole discretion of the Musical Director, taking the musical needs of the choir into account. Successful completion of an audition grants the applicant introductory membership in the choir which lasts for 3 months, or more if needed, at the discretion of the Artistic Director. Introductory members are expected to attend all rehearsals and all public performances.

How much will it cost?
Membership dues are $25 a month for 11 months ($275/year). After introductory status, members are responsible for paying for their uniform (approximately $400-$450) which includes, but not limited to, robes, formal uniform attire (suit/bowtie OR uniform dress and jacket), and uniform t-shirts. Members are also responsible for other personal attire such as black pants, shoes, socks, etc. Limited financial aid is available for members who may have financial difficulty.

What is the time commitment?
As a professional-level choir, OIGC rehearses weekly on Mondays from 7pm to 10pm and performs 35-40 times a year. A smaller ensemble of 9 to 15 performs an additional 15-20 times a year. The Choir is on break usually for a month in July/August and for a few weeks in December/January. To learn more about our non-audition Community Choir that rehearses once a month, and performs 4 to 5 times a year, visit: www.oigc.org/oicc

What kinds of songs does the choir sing?
Our mission is to inspire joy and unity among all people through Black gospel and spiritual music traditions. We sing Black gospel music, including negro spirituals, traditional, contemporary, and original gospel music; gospelized Christmas tunes, and classics. While considerations are made to provide the most inclusive experience for singers of all faiths, there may be times when the lyrics draw specifically from Christian imagery and experience. Song selection is at the discretion of the Artistic Director.

Do I have to read music?
No. In the tradition of Black gospel music, most of our music is taught by ear. Occasionally, sheet music will be utilized, but the ability to read music is not mandatory.

Will I need any special equipment?
Because most of our music is taught by ear, an audio recording device is essential (most people use their phones). Also, a notebook and pen or pencil are helpful for taking notes during rehearsal.

Does the Choir travel?
YES! In addition to performances in the Bay Area from Healdsburg to Monterey, we have also traveled throughout the United States to cities such as Charleston, New Orleans, and Seattle, and performed in Canada, Australia, Europe, and Israel. Members usually pay their own way with a subsidy provided through the Choir’s fundraising efforts. Our latest tours include the Lavender Pen Tour in October 2017 and the European Tour in 2015.