Auditions' History

The idea for singers to be heard by several western opera companies all at the same time on the same days was conceived in 1998 by Timm Rolek, artistic director of Sacramento Opera, and Joanne Barnes, managing director for Arts Management Services, LLC.   In 2008, these auditions reached their 10th anniversary!  They continue to bring together many artists from all parts of the country to be heard by many companies and the process takes place in a cordial and inviting environment. In fact, companies now include not only opera, but symphony orchestra conductors, choral societies, early music organizations and others.

The Irene Dalis Vocal Competition was added to the auditions in 2007. The competition has become an integral part of the auditions' process.  For many artists, the process is now two-fold:  companies listen to singers towards engaging them for future seasons and, in addition, the companies serve as the preliminary judges for the competition.

Each company participant receives a binder, ordered by time and date. A complete listing of each artist by name, voice type, management (if any) and contact information is a part of materials in the binder. Included on each singer is a resume, biography, photo and aria list. Artists begin with a selection of their own choosing. Actual time for each audition is eight minutes. This is adequate time for the singer to present at least one aria or piece with other selections to be requested from the aria list. One accompanist is provided for the entire 3 days of auditions. A company representative acts as host/moderator for the morning and afternoon sessions, welcoming the artist, asking what will be sung, obtaining a consensus from the other company participants what additionally will be requested from the singer.

The auditions are now held in the California Theater in San Jose CA. The decision to move the auditions to San Jose was made in 2006.  Participating companies are very appreciative of being able to hear singers in a bona fide theater, a real plus compared to the small rooms afforded companies should they hold auditions in New York.

The California Theater is a recently renovated theater (2004) in which both Opera San Jose and Symphony Silicon Valley now perform. With 1150+ seats, this setting allows companies to experience the full range of each singer's instrument and to know whether that artist is a fit for their particular company’s needs.

As in past years, every effort will be made to afford the artist a positive, wonderful audition experience. As a company participant, if you are able to attend all 3 days of auditions and hear all of the auditions, you will qualify to be one of the preliminary judges for the Dalis Vocal Competition.

Getting into and out of San Jose via plane, car and even train, to the California Theater and the hotel is information to be included and sent to participating companies and artists as they respond and are scheduled. The airport is five minutes from the theater and there is a reduced rate at a selected hotel.

Questions: Joanne Barnes, 415 928-0380 or info@westcoastauditions.com