Information for potential singers - 2025-2026

Mission Statement: Caritas Chamber Chorale serves the poorest of the poor through the art of sacred music.

Caritas Chamber Chorale is comprised of approximately 20 singers from throughout central New Jersey. Through freewill offerings at concerts, the Chorale supports the Adorno Fathers' African Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo, specifically, a nursery school, a primary school, and an orphanage.

Chorale Schedule: The Chorale typically holds two sessions per concert season in the fall and spring, with a break in between. Each session includes 8-10 weeks of Friday evening rehearsals with occasional sectionals and other rehearsals held on Tuesdays. The session culminates in three performances at different venues throughout central NJ. The Chorale currently rehearses in Martinsville and Far Hills.

Repertoire: The Chorale sings sacred and classical repertoire, mostly short a cappella motets, anthems, and spirituals. The repertoire is varied, drawing from Renaissance motets to contemporary works.

Expectations: Singers come to Caritas Chamber Chorale with experience in choral music, through participation in school, college, and church choirs. They are generally devoted and dedicated amateurs. There is no remuneration for singing, neither is there a tuition. Music is made available ahead of a session, as are online examples for listening. Director's notes are often sent via email. Each singer is responsible for learning and practicing the music, participating in rehearsals, and incorporating the director's notes.

What differentiates Caritas from other choruses? Caritas Chamber Chorale is unique in that it is a small community choir where every voice counts. The a cappella sacred music it performs is challenging, but it is also spiritually enriching. And, Caritas Chamber Chorale sings not only for the enjoyment of its audiences, but for the benefit of the poorest of the poor of our brothers and sisters.

Who is a good fit for Caritas Chamber Chorale?

A good candidate for Caritas Chamber Chorale will ...

Enjoy a cappella sacred music, and the challenge it presents.

Appreciate the importance of the work the Chorale does in supporting the African Mission.

Possess vocal skills and choral experience and have a desire to perform their best.

For the 2025-2026 season, Caritas Chamber Chorale especially seeks interested tenors and altos.

How to audition for Caritas Chamber Chorale

For more information, or to schedule an audition with Caritas Chamber Chorale, contact the Director, Barbara Sanderman.

Bring a song with you to sing at your audition. This could be an art song, a popular song, or even a hymn. Be prepared to vocalize your entire range and to do some sight reading. The audition will also entail getting to know one another a bit.

We look forward to singing with you!