Membership in Cappella is by audition only.  Choristers receive sizable scholarships for their successful and faithful participation in rehearsals, vespers, Mass, and sectionals each week.  Primary consideration for scholarship funds will be determined by the end of February.  The class (MUS 229/429) meets Monday through Thursday in the afternoon (3:00-4:30pm, followed by vespers).​ Scholarship awards are based on musical talent and potential contribution to the ensemble.  Scholarships can be stacked with most academic awards and may be renewable for up to four years.  Cappella is not tied to any particular major, minor, or academic program.  Any student on campus is eligible to audition if they are able to commit to the required time. 

 

Important audition elements:  vocal quality and experience, sight-reading skill, independent musicianship, the ability to recognize and repair mistakes, a desire to improve, strength of character, and the ability to contribute to the community.  Ability to follow directions and attention to detail is required, including as demonstrated through the audition process.

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We encourage you to schedule your audition (first, by filling out form on this page) in conjunction with a visit to the University of Mary so you can see us in action, worship with us at Mass, experience a rehearsal or performance, attend a music class, and meet with the conductor, Dr. Rebecca Raber. We hold live auditions during the academic year.  Contact rlraber@umary.edu to schedule an audition. If you live more than 250 miles from campus, we can arrange an audition via Zoom, although a live audition on campus is always preferred (and is easier for the student).

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The audition deadline for live auditions & uploads is

FEBRUARY 13, 2026.

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Your audition should demonstrate:  technical and musical levels that show promise of successful college-level study, pleasing tone quality, expression, and musicianship. Please remember that any communication skills you demonstrate as well as proper/professional dress & deportment also contribute to your overall consideration.  Again, attention to detail and ability to follow directions independently are required components of a good audition.

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AUDITION REQUIREMENTS:

1. Complete your live audition (at UMary or via Zoom)...registration required prior to scheduling.

2. ​UPLOAD your audition materials​ (videos and personal statement)

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SINGERS:  (please submit video recordings)

Prepare these materials to upload:

• Ave Maria (chant, a cappella)

• Choose ONE:  Steal Away  or  By an' By  (spiritual, with accompaniment)

• 1 classical solo of your choice (art song or aria, with accompaniment)

• Personal Statement on sacred music (submit in audition form).  There is no particular length required, but the statement should adequately express the student's desire and devotion to sacred music).

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* We are aways searching for fine student organists, who would also receive a scholarship award to both accompany and sing with the choir on a cappella works. Organists play for Wednesday and Sunday Masses (including special music). We will always have a primary organist and others to help supplement the schedule, depending on skill and experience.

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ORGANISTS:

Prepare these materials to upload:

• Organ solo (meditative, appropriate for Communion)

• Organ solo (festive, appropriate for Postlude)

• Heritage Mass (Gloria, Sanctus/Benedictus, Amen, Agnus Dei)

• Responsorial Psalm (play and sing)

• Personal Statement on sacred music (submit in audition form).  There is no particular length required, but the statement should adequately express the student's desire and devotion to sacred music).

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Email rlraber@umary.edu for organ audition music.

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If you have any questions about Cappella,

please email rlraber@umary.edu or call 701.355.8374 for more information.​​