SCH Performing Ensembles

Schola Cantorum on Hudson (SCH) is the critically-acclaimed 30-voice mixed ensemble which is the core of the SCH organization. Singing membership is a mix of recent college and conservatory graduates, well-qualified amateurs, and seasoned professionals, each of whom is selected by audition and interview. SCH presents three primary concert series each season, each of which is performed at least twice—once in Manhattan, once in New Jersey. Repertoire represents a wide variety of musical styles that encompass Renaissance through newly-commissioned works, a cappella and orchestral repertoire, and through its annual Ethnic Celebration Series, music of many nations. Many SCH singers are active professional or amateur soloists, and all soloists for SCH concerts are drawn from within membership. Independent preparation of musical material is an expectation of SCH members.

Schola Repertory Singers (SRS) is a chamber ensemble of 16 to 20 voices selected from within the SCH membership on the basis of more extensive audition in sight singing, alternative intonations, and vocal flexibility. Singers participating in SRS are those interested in the challenge of additional, and often more intricate, musical material. This group has premiered a number of highly challenging compositions. Preparation is almost entirely independent, as rehearsal time is quite limited. SRS makes some repertoire contribution to most SCH concerts, and also takes on additional performing opportunities outside of the SCH season, and in a variety of locations. Most of Schola’s Repertory Singers are professionally trained.

The Schola Sings Solo (SSS) cast of singers is the group of professionally trained singers from within SCH membership interested in solo recital presentation. The cast develops a traveling show each season, which is a unique blend of arias, art songs, and show tunes. Audition requires presentation skills in a variety of dramatic styles. Designed to market and showcase Schola’s professional voices, and to nurture and cultivate high-level solo performance skills, Solo offers its cast coaching in dramatic skills. Cast size is flexible, based on ability and interest in this additional unique realm of activity; typically ten to twelve singers.