Auditions can be an insult to students’ artistry and to our own teaching. We should be teaching every one of our students the skills needed to pass our auditions—whether in the classroom or chorus. A failed audition is more a reflection of inadequate teaching than of students’ gifts, or lack thereof. With the exception of those with particular disabilities, every child can be musical. Every child can develop a sense of meter and a sense of tonality. Every child can move musically and engage in movement in every aspect of vocal development. Every child has a lovely voice, just waiting to bloom. If we are doing our job as music teachers, every one of our students would be a musical asset to an ensemble.
Perhaps auditions ought to be redefined to select children who are willing to commit to the expectations of the “auditioned” group, sustaining optimum behavior, attendance, and responsibilities. An “Honors Chorus” can then be made up of students who choose to “honor” the conductor with their presence to meet the standards of the advanced ensemble.
