Question 1

What are the a cappella groups at WMHS?

Accepted Answer

Voices of Steel - mixed voices, audition-only, competitive pop a cappella group

Mic Drop - mixed voices, non-auditioned, non-competitive pop a cappella group

Question 2

What am I expected to be able to do?

Accepted Answer

As a member of Voices of Steel, you should:
Be able to sing your part independently and confidently
Be comfortable singing in front of an audience
Be able to sing in tune and in time
Be able to move well while singing independently and confidently
Work cooperatively and respectfully in a small group of peers
Remain academically eligible throughout the year
Make a commitment to the group in terms of time, attitude, and work ethic

Question 3

What kind of songs do the groups sing?

Accepted Answer

Both groups sing modern pop songs, from the 50s to today. Here are some recent examples: Come Go With Me (VOS signature song), Stand by Me (MD signature song), Before I Sleep (Joy Williams), Hercules (Sara Bareilles), Jackie Onassis (Sammy Rae), Buddy Holly (Weezer), Still Into You (Paramore).

Question 4

Who can be in the groups?

Accepted Answer

WMHS students in grades 9 through 12
Voices of Steel averages about 16 members
Although it is not required, membership in a curricular choral ensemble is highly recommended
Students who are currently enrolled in school choral ensembles may be given preference over those who are not
Previous experience in a cappella / singing / leadership / dance / theater / sound engineering is encouraged
Private voice lessons are encouraged

Question 5

What is the time commitment for Voices of Steel?

Accepted Answer

VOS rehearses on Mondays from 2:15-4:30 and Wednesdays from 2:15-3:15, with additional or longer rehearsals scheduled during competition season. Rehearsal times are subject to change.
They perform often throughout the year, and attendance at all rehearsals and performances is mandatory.
Major performances are scheduled in advance and additional performances will be added depending on members’ availability.

Question 6

What is the time commitment for Mic Drop?

Accepted Answer

Mic Drop rehearses on Wednesday from 2:15-3:00.
They perform two to three times a year, and attendance at all rehearsals and performances is mandatory.

Question 7

Can I play sports / be in marching band / do theater / take art / etc, and be part of one of the a cappella groups?

Accepted Answer

In a word, YES.

At WMHS, we cooperate and communicate to allow students to participate in their chosen activities. We want students to be able to get the most out of the high school years, or to quote former Asst. Principal Mr. Denis O'Leary, to "fill in their dash."
That being said, here are several things things to consider: 
1) Students are in school to take classes. Extracurricular activities should not supercede curricular ones.
2) Communication is key. If activities conflict, all parties will be more easygoing if excellent communication takes place with lots of advance notice.
3) Ultimately, it may not work. It depends on the student and the activities. Ask Ms. Morel if you have further questions.

Question 8

Do I have to be in Treble Choir / Chamber Singers / Chorale to be part of Voices of Steel?

Accepted Answer

Although it is not required, membership in a curricular choral ensemble is highly recommended and beneficial.
Students who are currently enrolled in curricular choral classes may be given preference over those who are not.

Question 9

I really want to be a member of Mic Drop, what should I do?

Accepted Answer

Email Ms. Morel or come see me in Room 2416. You do not have to audition to be part of Mic Drop.

Question 10

Where & when are auditions for Voices of Steel?

Accepted Answer

Auditions will take place Monday, May 4, starting at 2:30 in the WMHS Chorus Room. More times will be added if needed.

If needed, call back auditions will take place Thursday, May 7, after school in the WMHS Chorus Room (Room 2412).

Question 11

What do I need to do to audition?

Accepted Answer

For your audition, you should prepare a 30-60 second solo: one verse & one chorus of a contemporary pop song.

Choose something that you love to sing and feel good about
Please do not sing jazz, classical, opera, or musical theater.
Please have your solo memorized, including the lyrics.
If your song goes longer than 60 seconds, you may be asked to stop.
You will also demonstrate your range, aural skills, & sight reading skills.
You will be scored according to this audition sheet.
You will be scored by Ms. Morel, other members of the WPS Performing Arts Dept., and/or other a cappella pros.
 
Please arrive warmed-up to your audition, at least 5 minutes before your scheduled audition time.

Question 12

How will I be assessed?

Accepted Answer

Your audition will be viewed and scored by Ms. Morel using this Audition Rubric.

Question 13

What about call backs?

Accepted Answer

Callbacks will be scheduled if necessary, and callback information will be emailed directly to those students.

Question 14

How do callbacks work?

Accepted Answer

If callbacks are necessary, the process will be explained at the time.

Question 15

When & where will the results be posted?

Accepted Answer

The final audition results will be sent in the evening on May 9, by email.

Question 16

What else should I know?

Accepted Answer

Current members of the groups must re-audition each year.
There will be rehearsals which include new members in May and June.

Question 17

What are the User Fees to participate in A Cappella?

Accepted Answer

All students participate in Voices of Steel or Mic Drop will need to pay the $100 Performing Arts Activity Fee to Wakefield High School in September.
 
Fees are due before the first performance.

Question 18

How do I sign up?

Accepted Answer

Sign up to audition by
1) Filling out the Google Form
2) Signing up for a 5 minute time
 
Fill out the Google Form here.
After you submit the Google Form, you will be directed to Sign Up Genius to choose a time.
If you need to change your time after you sign up, please email Ms. Morel directly.

Question 19

I have more questions! What should I do?

Accepted Answer

Please contact Ms. Morel at ana.morel@wpsk12.org.

AUDITIONS FOR VOICES OF STEEL

Audition Information