Questions and Answers
When and Where Are Auditions?
Auditions are held each May for those entering 9th–12th grade.
BackCan I Be In `Til Dawn?
If you are a High School student entering the 9th through 12th grades you are eligible to audition. Members are people who want to learn about music, performing, listening and being a part of an ensemble. The program is tuition based - $125 per month or $1500 per year, however students are never turned away for lack of funds, so please feel free to apply for a scholarship if needed: Scholarship Application.
BackWhat Is It Like to Be In `Til Dawn?
Rehearsals are Monday and Wednesday nights from 6:15 – 9:00 pm at the Youth in Arts Studio in downtown San Rafael, year-round.
The group typically performs 40+ shows a year, some of which are during school hours. The group typically goes on three weekend-long retreats a year to strengthen interpersonal relationships and work on youth development skills.
There are up to fifteen group members. We strive to have as many members present as possible at each performance.
The program satisfies community service requirements at most north bay area high schools.
Performance venues include community events, fairs, festivals, elementary and middle schools, private parties, rehab & health centers, radio and television appearances and public concerts. We perform as many as 20 school assembly concerts each year. These performances are during the school day.
Til Dawn has an annual concert in June and always performs at the first day of the Marin County Fair on Youth in Arts day. Other common public performances include 142 Throckmorton in Mill Valley, The Sausalito Art Festival, Farmers' Markets in San Rafael and Novato, and other festivals around Marin.
Austin Willacy is the music director, program director, booking agent, arranger and staff member of Youth in Arts. Austin has been with `Til Dawn for more than ten years.
BackWhat Should I Prepare For An Audition?
Prepare one minute of one song of any genre, preferably Pop, Jazz, Rock, R&B, Gospel, Folk or Blues.
BackHow Long Are Auditions?
The length of the audition depends on the size of the turnout. That said, it’s best to be prepared to stay even as late as midnight, even though its a "school" night, all auditionees must stay until they have completed all three parts of the audition process.
Please note that this is a once a year late night for the group - regular rehearsals end at 9 pm.
BackWhat Happens At An Audition?
Step One - Sing! Perform a one-minute A Cappella audition piece for the group.
Step Two - Pitch matching. In this step, the music director plays a series of pitches on the keyboard and you sing them back on whatever vowel you want.
Step Three - Group Blending. We’ll teach you a background part to one of our songs and then you’ll sing it in a quintet/sextet with other `Til Dawn members.
BackWhat Should I Bring To the Audition?
Bring a pen. Bring a refillable water bottle. We’ll take a digital photo to remember you by so there’s no need to bring a head shot or resume. We’ll ask you to fill out an application and give us some basic contact information. Bring a little patience too, the audition process can be long but please know that it’s because we want to hear everyone!
BackContact Us!
For further information on auditions, booking or general questions, contact program director Austin Willacy either by email or at Youth In Arts, (415) 457-4878 ex: 20
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