top of page
Pink Feathers
IMG_2371.JPG

The Harmonettes

Founded in 1979, we have continuously contributed to the ever-growing University of Michigan A Cappella community with their unique sound and signature blend. As the first A Cappella group on campus consisting of women and gender non-conforming individuals, these passionate musicians pride themselves on their inclusivity, tight-knit friendships, and innovative music. The Harmonettes, compassionately known as the Harmas, strive to create a community of laughter, support, and collaboration.

Audition FAQ

How do I sign up for auditions? 
  • Sign up for auditions with this spreadsheet! Type your name in one of the empty time slots. 

  • If no available time slots work for you, please contact us using our contact form or email harmonettes@umich.edu!

  • If you are auditioning for multiple groups, make sure to give yourself enough time to get from one audition to another!

When and where will auditions be?

This year, auditions will be taking place: 

  • Monday, September 2nd, 5 - 9 PM

  • Tuesday, September 3rd, 6 - 8 PM

  • Thursday, September 5th, 6 - 8:30 PM

  • Friday, September 6th, 6 - 8 PM

Locations are currently TBD! Check this section or the audition sign-up sheet for updated information closer to auditions. 

Do I need to have any music experience to audition?

Not at all! If you like to sing or beatbox, we would love to hear you. We definitely have Harmas whose only experience was singing in the shower :)

How can I learn more about the Harmonettes? 
  • Come find us at Festifall on August 28th from 6 - 8:30 PM! We will be on Central Campus at table C37. 

  • Come see us perform at Acarush on September 1st! This is a great opportunity to hear every group's sound. After the performances, you can learn more about us and sign up for auditions :) Time is currently TBD. 

What does the audition process look like?

The audition process consists of 4 parts

  • Scales

    • To get a sense of your vocal range and warm up your voice, we will have you sing one ascending and one descending scale on a vowel of your choosing. 

  • Tonal memory

    • We will play a short excerpt on a piano up to 3 times at your request (hint: ask to hear it all 3 times!) and ask you to sing it back to us. 

  • Sight reading

    • We will give you a short line of sheet music and a starting pitch, a bit of time to review it, and then we will ask you to sing it to us. Make sure to keep in mind both pitch and rhythm!

  • Solo

    • Prepare a verse and a chorus (~60 to 90 seconds) of a song of your choosing to sing a cappella! See the “What kind of song should I choose for my solo?” section for more tips.

What kind of song should I choose for my solo?
  • You can choose any song that you would hear on the radio. Just try to avoid musical theatre and classical!

  • Your song should suit YOU. Try to choose a song that is comfortable for your voice and if you’re able, choose a song that shows off your vocal range!

    • Hot Harma Tip: "I went through so many songs trying to think of what would sound super impressive. But in the end it was better to just pick one of my favorite songs! I already knew it so well, and felt good singing it."

Is there anything I should bring?

Just yourself and some water if you’d like!

Should I get there early?
  • Preferably yes! We will have a brief info sheet for you to fill out, so it would be great if you could arrive 5-10 minutes before your time slot

  • We also recommend that you warm up your voice before your audition :)

How long will the audition take?

Each audition typically lasts 10 minutes.

What should I prepare if I want to audition for vocal percussion (VP)?
  • You can either play a song and perc over it or demonstrate your perc abilities without music. 

  • You have the option to do a vocal audition, a VP audition, or both!

What does the time commitment look like for the group?
  • We typically have 2-hour rehearsals 3 times a week.

  • We also perform at several gigs throughout the year! 

  • While you don’t need to spend too much time practicing outside of rehearsal, it’s expected that everyone learns their part

    • Hot Harma Tip: “Going over music on my own time for about an hour every week helps me stay on track!”

bottom of page