The BCS brings singers together to perform wonderful music to a high standard on the greatest stages in Brussels and beyond. But membership of the choir brings many other benefits.
Performance and musical discovery
The BCS programme planning blends the great choral masterpieces of the baroque and romantic periods with music from other genres. Even the most experienced singers are likely to encounter works that they have not sung before.
Developing your musicianship
Learning, rehearsing and refining pieces develops each singer’s vocal ability and their capacities as a musician. Regular rehearsals are supplemented by annual vocal coaching workshops, allowing accomplished guest choral directors to add their experience and knowledge.
Working with renowned artists
The Brussels Choral Society works with a range of professional orchestras, skilled soloists and conductors. This diversity offers members the chance to learn from several maestros during the season, maintaining freshness and vibrancy.
For the sheer enjoyment of it all
Whilst the choir takes its work very seriously, our strength lies in the cohesion and friendship between singers. We enjoy each other’s company, we learn and perform together, and we are always ready to hear the call “au bar” on a Thursday evening.
About BCS membership
Rehearsals
The choir rehearses on Thursdays from 19:30 to 22:00 at École Saint Boniface, rue du Conseil 59, 1050 Ixelles. We take a break in the summer between late June and mid August. You are more than welcome to come along to a rehearsal and get a first impression of our choir.
Singers are required to attend all rehearsals, although we understand circumstances can make this difficult. Each voice part has a representative who will discuss any issues with you as they arise and who gives direct input and feedback to the Musical Director.
The commitment
The reward is equal to the work put in. BCS singers are asked to work on their scores at home to familiarise themselves with their parts and to prepare before rehearsals, and this preparation is key to good performances.
Your financial contribution
The membership fee for the Brussels Choral Society is currently set at €160 per year. Members may pay in two instalments, and the choir is more than happy to discuss reductions on a case-by-case basis, for instance for students and those who are not in employment or face restricted finances. As an inclusive organisation, it is the objective of the BCS to ensure that no singers are unable to join for financial reasons.
Members are expected to acquire their own scores for each concert; these are normally sold in advance of rehearsals.
The choir holds an obligatory choral workshop, usually once per year, and members are asked to pay for their accommodation and the cost of the guest workshop leader. From time to time the choir performs outside of Brussels, and members will be asked to contribute to travel and accommodation costs in these instances.
Interested in joining us?
New member auditions are held throughout the season, and skilled choral singers in all voice parts will be considered. Prospective members are requested to attend at least one rehearsal prior to auditioning to get a feel for the choir. For the audition, prospective members should prepare a single, simple piece – ideally something they know well – that demonstrates vocal range and colour, intonation and musicianship. A pianist will provide accompaniment. Tonal recall and sight-reading exercises will complete the audition. A member must re-audition every five years to maintain his or her place in the choir.
We want you to be yourself and to sing the way you really sing! We really want you to pass the audition, so give it a go and we will be as helpful as possible.
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Rehearsals
Thursdays, 19:30-22:00
Institut Saint Boniface
Rue du Conseil 59
1050 Ixelles
