Sing with Blue Heron
Thank you to all who have sent materials since our listing May 2023
(read the call for materials below).
At this time, we are no longer requesting materials
due to an overwhelming response.
info@blueheron.org
CALL FOR MATERIALS- May 22, 2023
Blue Heron, a professional vocal ensemble based in Boston, seeks materials from singers who wish to be considered for its artist roster. We are especially looking for countertenors and high tenors, but all voices are welcome to apply. In addition, musicians who have not yet embarked on a professional career in ensemble singing, but would like to be considered for an apprenticeship and training program (currently in development) are encouraged to contact us.
Blue Heron is an equal employment opportunity ensemble and welcomes performers of all ethnicities, gender identities, ages, and those who are alternately abled, to submit their materials.
Combining a commitment to vivid live performance with the study of original source materials and historical performance practices, Blue Heron specializes in Western polyphonic repertoire from the 15th-17th centuries. The ensemble presents five concert programs each year on its concert series in Cambridge, Massachusetts, as well as making a limited number of touring appearances across the U.S. and Canada and in Europe. Read more about Blue Heron >
Concert and touring rosters vary according to the program, and artists are hired on a concert-by-concert basis by Artistic Director Scott Metcalfe. Each of the five Cambridge concert programs requires a commitment of 5-7 rehearsal days before the concert date. Touring programs typically align with these concerts and usually require less additional rehearsal time. View dates for our 2023-2024 concert season >
Artists chosen to be a part of the Blue Heron roster will be featured on the Blue Heron website, may be invited to perform select concert programs in coming seasons, or may be added to a list of substitute performers. Read more about Blue Heron artists >
Applicant Requirements
Blue Heron artists are vocalists who make their primary living as solo and ensemble singers.
- Musicianship: Sight singing, early music performance practices.
- Familiarity with music from Europe 1300-1600 preferred but not required.
- Skilled in performing in various languages, especially Latin, French, Italian, English, and Spanish.
- Ability to interpret texts set to music and tell a story through music.
- Strong chamber ensemble skills.
- All Blue Heron artists must be vaccinated against COVID-19 and up-to-date on any available boosters.
To Apply
Email the following materials to Blue Heron’s Artistic Director, Scott Metcalfe, at info@blueheron.org.
- Resume & biography
- 2-3 References (email and phone number) who might speak to your work in small ensemble singing or early music.
- 2-3 video or audio samples of your singing, preferably repertoire written prior to 1750. Video samples should be uploaded to a video platform such as YouTube or Vimeo and shared via separate unlisted links in your email. MP3 files may be attached to your email directly.
Pay
Pay is according to Blue Heron’s schedule of fees per service, which is available upon request. Travel to the Boston area is reimbursed and assistance with housing is available for non-local artists. Fees include an additional per diem for traveling artists. Artists are hired as independent contractors and will receive a 1099.
Applications and inquiries should email Scott Metcalfe, Artistic Director
Applications are accepted any time.
