I want to join a USC Choral Ensemble. What do I do?
Fill out the Choral interest form for more information, or if you're ready to join:

• University Chorus is open to all students without audition. Register for MUSC 129.

• Concert Choir and Carolina Alive require auditions. Call (803) 777-5369 to schedule an audition.
• Men’s Chorus is open to all tenors and basses without an audition. Register for MUSC 130H. (May be taken for 0 or 1 credit)
• Women's Chorus is open to all sopranos and altos without an audition. Register for MUSC 130X (May be taken for 0 or 1 credit)
• Graduate Vocal Ensemble is open to graduate choral conducting majors, interested graduate voice majors, advanced undergraduate singers, and other interested students by permission of the director of Choral Studies.

How much time is required to participate in ensembles? 


• Concert Choir meets 4.5 hours per week and tours during the weekend before Thanksgiving and sometimes during spring break. Foreign tours occur during the break between semesters or during spring break.
• University Chorus meets 4.5 hours per week
• Carolina Alive has three 50-minute rehearsals per week
• Men’s Chorus meets for 2.5 hours per week.
• Women's Chorus meets for 2.5 hours per week.
• Graduate Vocal Ensemble rehearses 2.5 hours per week

What does it cost to participate in an ensemble? 

Students in all ensembles are asked to provide their performance attire. Each ensmble has a prescribed outfit. Details are made available in class. Depending on the ensemble, cost ranges from $84.00-$110.00. Music is provided at no extra cost to the student.

What expenses are incurred for touring?
Tours in the United States require little or no cost from students other than meals. Tours abroad, though partially subsidized by the University, require students to pay a portion of the cost. Tours are not mandatory but students are asked to make a commitment early. Donors sometimes help students in need with expenses.

Do non-music majors sing in choral ensembles?

Yes! In fact even our most select ensembles are approximately 25% non-music majors. Overall about 35% of our participants are nonmusic majors.