Ready to join the family? Audition for us!

WELCOME TO OPEN CALL AUDITIONS!
Dischord is holding Open Call Auditions this Sunday (Sept 1) and Monday (Sept 2) in Williams Hall Room 203. Sign up for a 10 minute time slot and fill out the audition form using the links below or come scan the QR codes on our door! The only other thing you have to do beforehand is prep a verse and a chorus (or a portion of similar length) of ANY song of your choosing. We can’t wait to meet you!

STEP 3

Below you will find answers to common questions about auditioning for Dischord! If you have any other questions, please feel free to send us a message at the bottom of this page. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Q: What is Dischord A Cappella?
Founded in 1998, Dischord is Penn’s premier Pop and R&B all-gender a cappella group. We put on two shows every year, one each semester, and also perform at various gigs and events across Penn campus and Philadelphia! In addition to Pop and R&B we perform a variety of other genres, and pride ourselves on the fact that every semester each member gets to audition solos/duets of their choosing. We believe this helps us create set lists that reflect the unique tastes and talents of our members. We’re more than our music, though: our motto is 49% music, 51% family.

Q: When/Where are your auditions?

Open call auditions for Dischord are in Williams 203 on Sunday, Sept 1 and Monday, Sept 2 from 12pm-10pm!

Q: How do I audition? 

Come to Williams 203 sometime during open call. On our door you will find two important QR codes, which will be labelled. One code will take you to a virtual sheet where you can sign up for a 10-minute time slot. The other code will take you to our Audition Form where you will answer a few questions before your audition begins.

Q: What is the audition process like? 

The audition process includes 3 main parts.

1. First, we will give you information about our group and ask some questions to get to know you better. 

2. Then, we will ask you to complete some ascending and descending scales and a few pitch-matching exercises. 

3. Finally, you will perform a short section of any song of your choosing (whatever you think showcases your voice and tastes best!). Typically, auditionees will sing a verse and a chorus of their chosen song. 

At the end of your audition, we will be sure to give you all the information you need about next steps! 

We understand that the audition process can be an intimidating and anxiety-inducing experience for some, but we encourage you to come just as you are! We truly appreciate anyone who takes the time to audition for our group, and we are excited to meet you!

Q: Where can I see performances by Dischord?

Please check out our social media to get a sense of our music and personalities! All of our show videos can be found on our YouTube, and you can find more information about us on our Website, Instagram (@penndischord), and TikTok (@dischordacappella)! Please also feel free to listen to our recorded albums wherever you listen to your music! These links can also be found in our Linktree.

If you would like to see us live, please come to the Student Performing Arts Night (SPAN) on August 29th at 7:00pm. More information can be found on this site. In addition to Dischord’s performance, you will be able to watch performances from many a cappella and other groups on campus. It’s always a wonderful event for all interested in performing arts on campus!

Q: What is your rehearsal schedule like? 

We have two 3-hour rehearsals every week. This year our rehearsals are tentatively on Wednesdays from 6:00-9:00 pm and Sundays 1:30-4:30 pm in the Platt House. At every rehearsal we start by catching up on each other’s lives, then we warm up and practice our music. 

Throughout the semester there will be other obligations, such as gigs or recording songs for our albums! The week leading up to our show will also feature more rehearsal time (tech week!). 

Q: What voice parts are you looking for? Do you accept new beatboxers?

We welcome you to audition for our group regardless of your voice part, and yes, we would love to hear your beatboxing skills if you’re interested!

Q: Do I need to have any prior vocal experience or training?

Absolutely not. We simply look to get to know your voice, musical perspective, and personality. No training or prior experience required! Some of our members have never had any musical training, while some play several instruments and have a background in vocal performance. What unites us all is our love for music, singing, and community.

Q: I’m interested in arranging music–what should I know?

We always welcome and encourage members to participate in the arrangement process if they are interested! Whether you have prior experience with arranging or not, we can equip you with the tools and support needed to get involved. Several of our members without any prior experience with arranging have had the chance to learn, hone their skills, and express their creativity in our arrangements. 

Q: I am not able to audition in-person either of the days of open call (Sept 1st and 2nd). Can I audition virtually?

We ask that you audition virtually only when completely necessary, but no auditionee will be penalized for auditioning by video. To audition virtually, you will complete all the same components as an in-person audition. Please contact us at penndischord@gmail.com to learn more. An important note: your virtual audition will be asynchronous, and must be received by us during the open call period to be considered.

Q: I have a question I don’t see answered here. How should I reach out?

Please, we would be happy to answer your questions. Feel free to leave us any comments or questions below!