Dr. Ryan Brandau directs members of the Monmouth Civic Chorus during a past concert event. The Red Bank-based arts organization will be conducting scholarship auditions for high school seniors, and hosting its annual gala fundraiser, both on April 29.
Press releases from Monmouth Civic Chorus
A set of auditions for prospective scholarship applicants — and a gala fundraising dinner/auction with a Broadway theme — add up to a busy April 29 for the Monmouth Civic Chorus, the borough-based vocal organization that performed its most recent concert at Red Bank’s Tower Hill Church.
More than $2500 in scholarship funds will be awarded by the MCC this year to vocally talented New Jersey high school seniors who plan to pursue higher education. The Chorus now under the direction of Dr. Ryan Brandau will be conducting auditions by appointment on April 29, with an application deadline of the preceding Saturday, April 22.
Contestants must be prepared to perform two selections from the standard vocal repertoire (opera, operetta, art songs, oratorio or Gilbert and Sullivan), with at least one selection in Italian, French or German. Show music is not acceptable. Contestants will be judged on technique, choice of material, poise and musicianship. An accompanist will be provided if needed, and there is an application fee of $10. Audition time and location will be furnished to applicants by calling (732)933-9333, emailing [email protected], or visiting the MCC website and clicking About and Scholarships.
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The evening of Saturday, April 29 also happens to be the date of the MCC’s annual gala fundraiser, presented this year under the theme Broadway and Beyond – A Musical Journey with MCC. Hosted at in Middletown, the 7 p.m. event features an exquisite three-course dinner, cash bar, auctions (silent, chance and live), and cabaret-style entertainment from chorus members.
More than 120 guests attended last year’s gala, which raised over $14,000 to support the artistic endeavors of the esteemed chorus. During the evening, guests will be entertained by small ensembles of talented chorus members performing selections from shows performed by MCC throughout its history, including Ragtime, Brigadoon, Carousel, Pirates of Penzance, Oklahoma, The Mikado, Most Happy Fella, Kismet and much more.
Auction offerings in the past have included vacation weekends, original artworks, handmade jewelry and knitwear, gift certificates for local restaurants and nights on the town, gourmet food baskets, yoga and spa sessions, and more. Bidders will have the opportunity to place their bid on silent auction items or purchase tickets for the chance auction throughout the evening. The evening is capped off by a live auction on one special item, which last year included a boat tour on the Navesink River and a 5-course gourmet dinner served at two gorgeous riverside estates. Businesses that would like to donate auction items are invited to call for details.
Dress is business casual, and reservations are $80 per person if received by April 12, or $90 by April 24. Seating is limited, and no reservations will be accepted after April 24. Call (732) 933-9333 or visit monmouthcivicchorus.org for reservations and information.
