West Virginia Symphony Orchestra (WVSO) Music Director Lawrence Loh invites West Virginia vocalists to showcase their talent during auditions set for Jan. 17 in Charleston.
“My goal is to get a better sense of the incredible talent available in West Virginia that I’ve been hearing so much about,” Loh said. “Knowing what’s available locally will be a tremendous help as we plan future programming for the orchestra that involves two of my biggest passions – symphonic and choral music. I think some of the greatest music combines orchestral music with voice, and we hope to share some of that wonderful music with future audiences across the state.”
Loh, who was named music director in May, earned a master’s degree in choral conducting from Indiana University and met his wife, Jennifer, while conducting the Colorado Symphony Orchestra and she was singing in the Colorado Symphony Chorus.
Loh and West Virginia Symphony Chorus Director David Castleberry have been discussing ways to include more choral music in the WVSO’s 2018-2019 Capitol Conference Center Symphonic Series and to add new voices to the symphony choir. Both are interested in hearing from basses, tenors, altos and sopranos singing all types and styles of music.
Vocalists should prepare two contrasting pieces that highlight their range and talent to perform during the audition. Singers should bring sheet music of their selections in their preferred key. The WVSO will provide an accompanist, however the accompanist will not transpose or improvise. Vocalists may bring their own accompanist.
Auditions will be held between 10 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. on Jan. 17 at Cavendish Hall, 207 52nd St. SE, Charleston (Kanawha City). To schedule an audition time, call Betty King at 304-957-9878. The deadline is Jan. 12.
The WVSO is West Virginia’s premier performing arts organization, presenting classical, pops, and chamber-music concerts annually throughout the Mountain State. Currently in its 78th season, the WVSO is a proud member of the community and enriches the region by providing affordable, high-quality concerts, collaborations with West Virginia arts organizations and a nationally award-winning education program.
