New Choral Group for Middle School Students Launches in Pasadena

A new choral group for middle school students is launching in Pasadena, offering a free opportunity to learn a variety of choral music and to perform them during public events.

The High Notes, a new program of Pasadena Chorale, will hold auditions for students with soprano and alto voices in grades 6-8 on Monday, Aug. 21, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Altadena Community Church. Middle schoolers from all Pasadena area schools are encouraged to audition.

Pasadena Chorale aims to create a supportive and inclusive environment where young singers can develop their vocal skills, music theory, ensemble singing and stage presence under the direction of Jeffrey Bernstein, the founder and director of Pasadena Chorale.

“The High Notes meets the growing capacities of middle school students with the challenges that come with high-level choral singing, including music theory, vocal technique and experience with foreign languages,” Bernstein said. “All this takes place in a fun and supportive environment where students build friendships outside of school and experience first-hand the joy of singing well with other people.”

The High Notes plans to rehearse weekly on Mondays from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at Altadena Community Church and perform at least twice a year with Pasadena Chorale.

A community choir serving the Pasadena area since 1985, Pasadena Chorale is a nonprofit organization that promotes choral music education and appreciation through concerts, workshops and outreach programs. 

It has about 80 singers from diverse backgrounds and ages who perform a range of choral repertoire, from classical to contemporary.

For the audition, students don’t need to prepare anything. All returning and auditioning High Notes singers will vocalize and rehearse together, learning new songs and practicing listening and blending. Auditioning singers will then sing individually for the conductor.

Parents are welcome to stay during auditions and are welcome to drop off and pick up their children.  

Audition results will be announced via email on Tuesday, Aug. 22.

For more information about The High Notes or to register for auditions, visit www.pasadenachorale.org or call (626) 793-4231.