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.  Now in their 13th year, these auditions 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, some of 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 nine 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. No other accompanists are allowed to play.  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 held in the California Theater in San Jose CA.  Moving the auditions to San Jose from San Francisco was made in 2006.  Participating companies appreciate hearing singers in a bona fide theater, a real plus compared to the small rooms where auditions are held in New York.

The California Theater is a recently renovated theater (2004) in which both Opera San Jose and Symphony Silicon Valley regularly perform. With 1150+ seats, this setting allows the participating 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.

Getting into and out of San Jose via plane (the  airport is five minutes from the theatre), car and even train, to the California Theater is easy and the hotel that is used for out-of-town participants is across the street from the theatre.  Hotel information is posted on the Fact Sheet including information on reduced rates.  Be sure to check there for the latest details.  If you have additional questions,  please feel free to contact us:  Joanne Barnes, 415 928-0380 or info@westcoastauditions.com.