Basic Information About Auditioning

The Philadelphia Boys Choir and Chorale is comprised of both training and performing programs for boys ages 6 through 18. Most of our singers begin in the training groups, and matriculate through the Performing Choir and then Chorale after their voice changes. Ensembles begin with Prelude, our beginning all-gender training choir, and then Cadets, our advanced training program. From there, singers work on a set of standard repertoire for the choir. When singers pass their “blazer test,” showing that they can competently perform the choir’s standard repertoire, they earn their red blazer and become part of the Performing Choir.

Each singer auditions for Mr. Smith, our Artistic Director and Conductor. The audition consists of simple vocal exercises to determine the range and abilities of each singer. No preparation is required for an audition.

Scheduling Your Audition

Auditions are held at the Choir Building at 1336 Spring Garden Street, Philadelphia, PA 19123. There are several area parking garages that are conveniently located near the building. You should arrive several minutes early to your audition, which will last 15-20 minutes. Auditions are scheduled throughout the Spring, as well as in December for those who may be able to join our programs for the Spring semester. To schedule an audition, please click the button below. If there are no available auditions, please email info@pycemusic.org to schedule an audition. Auditions are now open for September enrollment!

Audition FAQ’s

When are rehearsals?

The rehearsal schedule for the 2026-2027 Season is as follows:
Prelude: Wednesdays in two sections (4:45-5:45 and 6:00-7:00)
Cadets: Tuesdays 5:00-6:15pm and Saturdays 9:00-10:15a
Performing Choir: Wednesdays 4:45-6:15p, Saturdays 9:30a-12:15p
Continuo & Adult Chorale Combined Rehearsal: Saturdays 9:30a-12:30p
Continuo (Changed Voice TTBB): Tuesdays 6:30-8:30p

Is prior music or voice training necessary?

No. Although prior music experience is helpful, boys will have lessons in music theory and receive vocal training. There are also free musicianship classes for all singers, and we have several voice and piano teachers on staff if your child wishes to take private lessons (additional fees apply).

Does my son have to give up the school or church choir or his other activities?

Absolutely not!  Boys are encouraged to stay actively involved in their other activities including choirs, sports and clubs.  We try to be flexible with scheduling and attendance, and we truly want you to remain active in your home programs.

What is the cost to be in the program?

For the 2026-2027 season, tuition is as follows:
Prelude: $1,350
Cadets & Performing Choir: $2,190
Junior Chorale: $1,450
Additionally, there is a $50 annual attire fee.
Members of the adult chorale are volunteers with the organization and are not charged tuition.

Please note we have a robust financial aid program for those of limited means.

When does my son get his signature red blazer?

The Choir’s signature red Blazer will be awarded upon acceptance into the Performing Choir.  In addition, to complete the uniform, parents will need to buy a white dress shirt, white pants, black belt, black socks, and black dress shoes.

What are the performance and travelling opportunities?

Philadelphia Boys Choir & Chorale performs regularly across the Greater Philadelphia region. The Choir has also performed at many national and international venues. These include Carnegie Hall, the Sydney Opera House, Good Morning America, and Saturday Night Live. Every year, we have the chance to perform in the Nutcracker with the Philadelphia Ballet. PBCC also embarks on an annual international tour in the summer. In the past, we’ve gone to Australia, China, Argentina, Egypt, South Africa, Spain, and many other countries – in 2024, we traveled to India for the first time in our history.