Performing Boys Choir

Philadelphia Boys Choir

After successfully completing the Advanced Cadet program or at the discretion of the Artistic Director, boys are invited to become candidates for the Performing Choir. They need to memorize and demonstrate proficiency on their voice part in approximately ten songs from the standard repertoire in order to earn their red blazer and become a member of the Performing Choir. Usually, candidate invitations are extended in June so that candidates have time over the summer to prepare their audition music.

We develop a varied repertoire every year that all Choir members must learn, including songs in the languages of the host countries for that years' international concert tour. This repertoire is the basis for all performances of the Choir in a season. It consists of a combination of classical, traditional, spiritual, popular and patriotic songs, with a focus on the music of American composers.

The Artistic Director evaluates each Choir member two to four times every year for musical progress and to check if his voice has changed. Once a boy’s voice begins to naturally change, usually between the ages of 12 to 15, he is graduated from the Choir in one of two “retirement” ceremonies held during the year. He is welcome to audition for the Men’s Chorale once his voice stabilizes, which generally occurs in his late teens. Approximately one quarter to one third of Choir members retire each year due to voice change, which allows for younger members to move up from the Cadet programs.

The Choir sings at numerous private and community functions throughout the year, as well as at our Thanksgiving Community Concert, performances of the Nutcracker with the Pennsylvania Ballet and our Holiday and Spring Concerts. Additionally, the Philadelphia Boys Choir & Chorale embarks on an international concert tour each year for two weeks.