About
Chorus
The South Dakota Symphony Orchestra Chorus is the official vocal ensemble of the South Dakota Symphony Orchestra. As a volunteer chorus, its members are committed to the rehearsal and performance of the greatest masterworks of the choral and operatic repertoire. The season traditionally includes annual presentations of Handel's Messiah and the popular Christmas with the Symphony: 'Tis the Season concerts. In the spring, the Chorus typically prepares major oratorios, operas and other major works for chorus and orchestra. Recent seasons have included Bach's St. Matthew Passion, the world premiere of Malek Jandali's A Candle, Beethoven's Symphony No. 9, Mozart's Requiem and Great Mass in C minor, Brahms' A German Requiem with GRAMMY® Award-winning conductor John Nelson, and Mahler's Symphony No. 3. The Chorus also participated in the revival performance and world-premiere PENTATONE Music recording of Douglas Moore's Pulitzer Prize-winning opera Giants in the Earth.
The 2026-27 season includes Handel's Messiah, Christmas with the Symphony: 'Tis the Season, the world premiere of Susie Ibarra's Kuwentong Karst, and Beethoven's monumental Missa solemnis.
Auditions
The South Dakota Symphony Orchestra Chorus is led by Dr. Timothy Campbell. The Chorus looks for members with a strong work ethic and musical background, as well as a joyful spirit of collaboration. Auditions are competitive and are required for all members.
SDSO Chorus 2026-27 Season Audition dates:
Thursday, September 10
Monday, September 14
Monday, September 21
Auditions are a 4-step process:
1. Review the 2026-27 season schedule
2. Fill out the audition information form
3. Schedule your 10-minute audition
4. Prepare items 1 & 2 below prior to your audition, which will consist of the following:
- Any song/aria/hymn of your choosing up to 2-3 minutes in length. An accompanist will be provided, and memorization is not required. Please bring two copies of your music (one for the accompanist, one for yourself). You may instead sing "My Country Tis of Thee"-a copy will be available at the audition.
- Prepare thoroughly the two excerpts from Messiah linked below. Please note the specific instructions and measures written atop each movement. A copy will be available at the audition.
EXCERPT 1 EXCERPT 2 - Vocalization
- Sight-reading examples
Audition results are typically communicated by email one week after your audition. If you are unable to make either date, please email timothy.campbell@sdsymphony.org
2026-2027 CHORUS SCHEDULE AUDITION FORM SCHEDULE AN AUDITION