Auditions Are Now Closed

Thank you to everyone who applied!

Our next round of auditions will open in August 2026.

We were delighted by the incredible talent and enthusiasm shown during this season’s applications.

If you’d like to be notified when auditions open again, please sign up for our mailing list below.

Stay connected with us on [Social Media Links] for updates, events, and performances.

FAQ

Who can audition for the UP Youth Choir?

Any talented and passionate young singer between the ages of 14 and 18 is welcome to audition. You must live in the greater Tshwane area of Gauteng and be enrolled in a secondary school.

While the ability to read music is helpful, it is not a requirement. We are looking for vocal potential, passion, and a willingness to learn and grow as a choral musician.

You’ll be asked to perform a short prepared piece of your choice (any genre), complete a few vocal exercises to assess your range and tone, and possibly take part in a brief aural or rhythm test.

Choose a song that showcases your voice, practice your pitch and rhythm, and bring your authentic self. We want to see your personality, passion, and love for music.

Auditions are free.

Should you be accepted, there may be a nominal annual fee to help cover choir-related costs, but sponsorships or financial assistance may be available for those in need.

We perform a wide range of music – from traditional African pieces to contemporary pop, classical choral works, and original compositions. Our repertoire celebrates South Africa’s diversity and heritage.

General rehearsals are held every Friday from 15h00 to 19h00. We communicate weekly with members and parents to confirm the rehearsal schedule, which may be adjusted depending on upcoming tours, concerts, or special events.

As part of the University of Pretoria’s multi-choir model, we generally use venues on the university’s campuses. The exact location is communicated to singers and parents every week to ensure everyone is informed and prepared.

Yes! The choir often performs locally and has the opportunity to travel nationally and internationally for festivals and tours. Being part of the UP Youth Choir is a cultural and musical adventure.

Tips on Auditioning

Preparation
  • Know your song by heart.
  • Practice in front of a mirror.
  • Record yourself and listen back on headphones.
  • Warm up beforehand, drink some water and don’t forget to breathe!
  • Make it fun; smile a lot, and you’ll feel the way you look!
  • Remember, it always sounds less energised than you think, so make sure your diction and rounded vowels are on top form.
  • Always sing with expression – communicate, tell the story, explain the “emotion” intended.
  • People connect to emotion.
  • Don’t be scared to perform, use your body, use facial expression – a vocal coach once asked me:
    Would you rather look stupid or sound stupid? It’s a good question.
  • Singing and music is as much a discipline as a fun thing to do!
  • Work hard and play hard!
  • A good audition, like a good performance, comes from diligent preparation beforehand.
  • A hidden truth behind all this is that the conductors do want you to succeed; otherwise, they wouldn’t have bothered to tell you how