Here's what to expect when you visit the San Diego Chorus.

The San Diego Chorus welcomes visitors year-round, and encourages full participation in rehearsals from day one. Rehearsals always begin with physical movement, which helps us to shake off the day, 'warm up' our instruments and shift mental focus toward effective rehearsal practices. Please come in comfortable clothing and shoes that allow you to move freely. You'll have guest access to digital music and learning tracks. Following an initial vocal assessment to determine which part best suits your range and voice, you'll be assigned a riser position and participate fully in rehearsal. 

Our New Member Team

From the first moment you arrive and at every event thereafter, the San Diego Chorus New Member Team is standing by to answer questions and guide you through our rehearsal format and requirements. Section Leaders and our Director keep Guest familiarity levels in mind throughout rehearsals and special events. In no time, you'll be well on your way to learning our Chorus repertoire and understanding the foundational aspects of a cappella singing and the barbershop sound. Along the way, we'll offer glimpses of the rich history of Sweet Adelines International and the San Diego Chorus. 

We're Committed to Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging

The San Diego Chorus believes that every voice matters. We welcome singers of all ethnic and racial backgrounds, people with disabilities, members of the LGBTQ+ community and people from varied religions. Learn more about our intentional approach to a creating a diverse, inclusive and welcoming culture.

Our Audition Process

Our year-round, soft audition process helps you take the next steps toward membership with the San Diego Chorus at your own pace. Starting with an informal, private vocal assessment we'll share some details about the characteristics of each voice part in Barbershop Music and help you identify which is the best fit with your range. Prospective members receive digital access to music and learning tracks. After about 3 to 4 weeks of attendance, you'll make an informal recording on the risers while singing with the chorus as your Riser Audition. At around six weeks, you're ready for your quartet audition. Pass both and you're eligible to apply for membership in the San Diego Chorus.

Rookie Team

You came, you sang, and you want to join! Now what? Never fear - our amazing Rookie Team has a full year of events and opportunities designed to support and equip you with musical production skills, chorus etiquette, connections and fun social events to help you navigate year one.

Chorus Mentors

New Members of the San Diego Chorus are paired with a personal mentor. You'll have an opportunity to build a personal relationship with a Chorus veteran. This is one more way we ensure that you always have a friendly face, encouragement and someone nearby to guide you.

Chorus Membership 

The San Diego Chorus is a dues based non-profit organization. We actively fundraise to offset member costs, primarily through performances. Members are responsible for monthly dues and incremental costs which may include costume-related deposits and purchases and the individual registration and travel costs associated with competitions and events. Members are expected to follow organizational guidelines and attend rehearsals, coaching sessions, sectionals and performances. Members are encouraged to support the music development and business needs of our Chorus by serving on project-based committees and special appointments.

Out of Towner (OOT) Membership

The San Diego Chorus also offers an "Out-Of-Town" (OOT) Membership. We're proud to have members that join us virtually and in person from throughout Southern California, Arizona, Nevada and Hawaii. Weekly rehearsals are live streamed and available for viewing at your convenience. Timely submission of qualification recordings to your section leader and visual coordinator as requested are mandatory. Quarterly attendance and real-time participation in Recharge Coaching weekends and other key events are required.