📋 Audition Components
1. Vocal Range Test
We'll find your comfortable range to determine the best voice part for you. Just sing your highest and lowest comfortable notes!
2. Tonal Memory
We'll play or hum a short melody, and you'll echo it back. This tests your ear, not your perfection!
3. Solo
Prepare a 30-second to 1-minute solo (a verse and chorus). Choose a song that showcases your voice naturally. No fancy runs needed—just be you!
4. Harmony Skills
We'll sing with you to test how well you can hold your part in a group. This is essential for a cappella!
5. Sight-singing
We'll give you a simple sheet music excerpt to sing. If you can't sight-read, no problem! We care more about passion and potential. But if you can, show us!
🎤 For Vocal Percussion
In addition to a short solo, prepare a 30-second beat showcase. Show us your creativity and style!
Most important: Be yourself and enjoy the music!
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of experience do I need?
Our members range from beginners to music majors! We value: good pitch, ability to listen and blend, and openness to feedback. If you can read music, arrange, or do vocal percussion, that's a huge plus! But passion is what matters most.
Do I need to read sheet music?
For singers, we prefer some sheet music familiarity since we learn from written music. But if you're rusty or not great at it, no worries! We'll help you grow. If you can't read music at all, we encourage you to learn some basics and audition again next time!
For beatboxers, no need to read music. VP parts are often learned by ear or created on the spot.
What should I bring to the audition?
Fill out the audition form and prepare a 30-second to 1-minute solo (a verse and chorus). Pick a song that feels comfortable and shows off your natural voice. That's it!
Wait, I have to prepare a solo? I'm nervous...
Totally understand! But don't worry—we're not looking for perfection. We want authenticity, potential, and passion. Pick a song you love, in a comfortable range!
I'm a beatboxer. What's different?
Our VP's both sing AND beatbox. So prepare: 1) a short solo showcasing your singing; 2) a 30-second beat showcase showing your creativity and skills. We LOVE creative VP's!
When are callbacks? What happens?
Callbacks: Sunday, Feb 1. You'll learn a short piece with some of our members — we'll observe how your voice blends, how you learn, and how you collaborate. It's a musical experience, not a test!
What's the time commitment?
As a member, expect: two 2-hour weekly group rehearsals (Tuesdays 7-9pm, Sundays 4-6pm), one 1-hour weekly sectional (flexible time arranged by your voice part), plus occasional gigs throughout the semester. We also have a big concert at the end of each semester. Most importantly, we're a family and love hanging out together!
Can I audition for other groups at the same time?
Absolutely! The beginning of the semester is the perfect time to explore. Try out different groups and find your perfect musical home. Wherever you end up, we're happy for you! (But we really hope it's us!)
I have more questions!
Great! Email us anytime at berkeleychineseacapella@gmail.com or DM us on social media. We'd love to chat!