Carolina POPS Search for a Star 2006

The Carolina POPS is searching for new stars!

A talent search will be conducted this year to find potential new stars, who will be invited to perform on-stage with the Carolina POPS, if qualified.

The Search for a Star competition is open to all musicians who play standard orchestral instruments or sing.

How To Participate...

Apply to audition:

• Print, complete, and return the Search for a Star application. Application deadline is Tuesday, February 28, 2006.
• There is a non-refundable $15 application fee. Checks should be made out to the Greensboro Symphony Orchestra, with "Search for a Star" and the applicant’s name clearly written on the memo line.
• Applications must include the video/CD, completed application form, and the $15 application fee.
• Applications will be reviewed by Principal POPS Conductor Michael Berkowitz. Evaluation criteria will be based on experience, suitability of repertoire, (see "Choosing an Audition Piece") and other considerations unique to this program such as variety and audience interest. Qualified applicants will be invited to audition live on Saturday, April 1, 2006.
• Search for a Star is open to any musician performing POPS repertoire: Broadway, Big Band, film music, jazz, beach music, and showpieces.
• The Search for a Star competition has no age limit.

Auditions:

• Musicians invited to audition will be notified by mail before March 13, 2006.
• Musicians invited to audition will receive complimentary tickets to the Carolina POPS concert on March 31, 2006.
• Auditions will be held on April 1, 2006 in Greensboro, NC, location TBA.
• All auditions must include piano accompaniment. Contestants may bring their own accompanist, or we can arrange to provide accompaniment.
• Memorization is not required but may be a factor in the judges’ decision.
• With the exception of the piano accompanists, all auditions are closed to the public. The decision of the judges is final. No verbal or written comments will be given.

Grand Prize:

• The winner of the Search for a Star competition will be invited back to perform on-stage with the Carolina POPS during the 2006-2007 season. The Carolina POPS will arrange for round-trip transportation and hotel accommodations for this appearance.

Choosing an Audition Piece:

• Instrumentalists may audition with any standard concert piece, or other repertoire appropriate for POPS orchestra, such as music from Broadway, big band, jazz, beach music, or film.
• Vocalists may select a standard opera or oratorio aria. However, selections from Broadway, big band, jazz, beach music, or film are highly encouraged.

Your Video or CD:

• You must include an unedited video or compact disc recording with your application. The video or CD must be no longer than 20 minutes. Videos may be in either DVD or VHS format.
• Clearly label your video or CD with your name, address, and the title of the piece performed.
• Videos and CDs will not be returned.

Questions?

• Email questions to Gina Pezzoli at gpezzoli@greensborosymphony.org.
  Type "Search for a Star" in the subject line.

Timeline Synopsis:

• February 28, 2006: Search for a Star Application Deadline
• March 1 - March 13, 2006: Applications reviewed, audition invitations issued
• April 1, 2006: Live auditions in Greensboro, closed to the public
• Late April, 2006: Winner(s) announced
• 2006-2007 season: Winner(s) perform on-stage with the Carolina POPS