Open audition for Springfield Symphony chorus slated for Jan. 5

Date: 12/28/2009

SPRINGFIELD - Choral music is alive and well in Western Massachusetts according to Springfield Symphony Chorus director Nikki Stoia, but she wants to make it even stronger. So the chorus is scheduling auditions for those interested in joining the 120-plus voice group.

Auditions will take place on Jan. 5 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Springfield YMCA, 275 Chestnut St.

Candidates are invited to bring a favorite piece of music, but no preparation is necessary. Ability to read music is required. To schedule an audition time or for additional information, e-mail Janet Parslow at janet.parslow@comcast.net or call 537-7946.

The orchestra and chorus are under the leadership of Springfield Symphony Orchestra Music Director Kevin Rhodes who Stoia said enjoys a reputation for supporting choral music in a number of concerts with the full symphony orchestra in Symphony Hall each season.

"We participated in the 'Traditional Holiday Pops' and the new 'Family Holiday Festival' concerts this December. In March the chorus will join the orchestra at the Mozart and Beethoven concert, and in May at the orchestra's season finale - Beethoven's 'Symphony No. 1 and 9,'" she said.

This is Stoia's fourth season as choral director. "If you enjoy singing in a welcoming and experienced chorus that performs a wide variety of good music in beautiful venues, come audition for us," Stoia said.

The multitalented Stoia is also a pianist and professor of music at the University of Massachusetts. A Springfield native, she attended Classical High School and earned a scholarship to Smith College. Stoia is also a senior lecturer in the UMass Department of Music and Dance, music chief undergraduate advisor and Associate Dean in the College of Humanities and Fine Arts.