Judith Clurman's Essential Voices USA (EVUSA) promotes the love of music and the art of ensemble singing. Hailed by The Sondheim Review as a "world-class chorus," the group has a flexible roster of professional singers, auditioned volunteers, and high school students who perform a wide range of musical genres and styles. The group’s size varies according to the musical needs of each project. EVUSA is currently in residence with the New York Pops at Carnegie Hall and also produces its own classical concerts, workshops, and recordings. As part of its mission, EVUSA is committed to improving children’s lives through music, and has involved over one hundred high school students in concerts at Carnegie Hall and Symphony Space.

During their 2010-2011 season, EVUSA participated in the Bernstein celebration at Symphony Space, sang world premieres in the Shulamit Ran Composer Speaks, at Hebrew Union College, and performed as part of the 80th Birthday Carnegie Hall concert honoring Stephen Sondheim. The group was also featured at the Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting and participated in the Sing Out Mr. President vocal series National Public Radio. That series, which reached over 26 million listeners worldwide, will soon be available on the recording Reason to Be Thankful along with celebrated Broadway stars Kelli O’Hara and Brian Stokes Mitchell, pianist Tedd Firth, and members of the instrumental group Appoggiatura. This spring, Ms. Clurman will conduct members of EVUSA in a recording for Marvin Hamlisch’s children’s book Marvin Makes Music (November 2012 release) and in The Composer Speaks programs featuring the music of Bruce Ruben, Larry Hochman and Paul Schoenfield.

Membership

Different groups of singers are chosen according to the repertoire and venue. All members are passionate about singing, have previous ensemble experience, are able to sight read and memorize and willing to help promote performances.

Membership as a volunteer singer in EVUSA requires more than just performing. There are semi-annual membership dues, volunteer commitments, and some ticket sales requirements for self-produced concerts only.

Auditions

To apply, please email auditions.evusa@gmail.com with the following information: Vocal/choral resume or short summary of your musical experience. If you are invited to audition, we will contact you via email. Please prepare two contrasting pieces. Auditions will also include vocal and ear training exercises, and an interview. Professionals will also be chosen by a contractor.

To learn more about EVUSA and membership requirements, browse our website or find us on Facebook.

For further information, contact EssentialVoicesUSA@gmail.com