Fall 2026 Auditions Have Closed
For more information on the next audition cycle, email [email protected].
What to Know Before You Audition
Auditioning is just the beginning. Here are a few important things to know about the rehearsal commitment, costs, and what life as an SFGMC singing member looks like.
Rehearsal Commitment
SFGMC rehearses every Monday from 7:00–9:45 p.m., along with sectionals and other special rehearsals as needed. The season also includes two out-of-town weekend retreats and at least one San Francisco retreat.
Membership Costs
Singing members should plan for several membership-related expenses:
- Dues: $33.34 per month
- Wardrobe: approximately $100–$150 one time
- Retreats: typically $225–$350, depending on accommodations
Financial Assistance
Finances should not prevent someone from joining SFGMC. Ryan’s Fund provides financial assistance in exchange for volunteer hours. Application information is provided upon acceptance into the Chorus.
Your First Rehearsal
Before rehearsal, you’ll receive an email with downloadable music and guidance for getting started. Download your music ahead of time and come ready to sing.
All About Auditions
Everything you need to know about preparing for and completing your SFGMC audition.
Who can audition for SFGMC?
Auditions are open to people age 18 and older who can sing in the tenor, baritone, or bass range, irrespective of gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, or race.
Singers should be able to comfortably sing between C3 and C4. Those who comfortably sing higher may be placed in tenor parts, while those who comfortably sing lower may be placed in bass parts.
Do I need previous choral or musical experience?
No. SFGMC members come from a wide range of musical backgrounds, from people who had never sung in a chorus before joining to singers with advanced musical degrees.
The goal of the audition is to understand your vocal range, musical ability, and where your voice may fit within the Chorus.
What should I prepare for my audition?
Prepare at least 16 measures of a song that you feel comfortable singing. Your selection can be classical, choral, pop, opera, Broadway, or another genre.
You may sing in any language. Choose something that shows your voice comfortably rather than something intentionally difficult.
Bring printed piano accompaniment in the key you intend to sing. The accompanist cannot transpose music during your audition. You may also accompany yourself on an instrument or use a pre-recorded instrumental track, but you must provide your own speaker and the track cannot include accompanying vocals.
What should I bring and wear?
Bring printed sheet music for the accompanist in the correct key, or the equipment you need if you are using another approved form of accompaniment.
Wear whatever makes you feel most comfortable. There is no audition dress code.
What happens during the audition?
Your audition includes a brief interview with the New Member Committee, your prepared song or a portion of it, and several exercises that help the panel assess vocal range and ability. The entire audition takes only a few minutes.
The panel may include SFGMC’s Artistic Director, section leaders, and other Chorus leaders. You will not audition in front of the other auditionees.
Where are auditions held, and when should I arrive?
Auditions and rehearsals are held at The Chan National Queer Arts Center, home of the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus, at 170 Valencia Street in San Francisco.
Please arrive no more than 15 minutes before your scheduled audition time. Audition evenings can be tightly scheduled, and there may occasionally be a short wait.
I’m an SFGMC alum. Do I have a different audition process?
No. Alumni and new prospective members audition on the same dates and follow the same requirements, including the prepared solo. However, members currently classified as inactive do not need to re-audition.
How and when will I receive my audition result?
Audition results are sent by email shortly after the final audition date.
What if I’m not accepted?
You are always welcome to audition again. Many SFGMC members auditioned more than once before joining the Chorus.
You can also participate as a non-singing volunteer. SFGMC is a volunteer-driven organization and welcomes people who want to contribute their time and talents in other ways.
A Window Into Rehearsals
Wondering what it's like to be part of SFGMC? Take a peek behind the music.
Where the music comes together.
Before the lights go up and the curtain rises, it all begins in the rehearsal room. From learning new music and perfecting harmonies to sharing laughter and building friendships, rehearsals are where our singers find their voices together.
What to Expect
Weekly Rehearsals
Mondays, 7:00–9:45 p.m.
Additional Rehearsals
Sectionals and special rehearsals as needed.
Retreats
Two out-of-town weekend retreats and at least one San Francisco retreat each season.
Still have questions?
We’re happy to help. Email [email protected] with additional questions about the audition process.
