Frequently Asked Questions
Your questions, answered
When are auditions held?
Training Choir, for singers in grades 3, 4, and 5, rehearses from February to May each year. Singers in grades 5, 6, and 7 who are interested in auditioning should send us an email.
How much does it cost to sing in the SJBC?
SJBC families make a pledge each year to cover some or all of the cost of their singer’s participation. Each family pledges what they’re able to, and the rest is offset by grants, scholarships, and fundraisers. Additionally, each year’s tour comes with a fee. More about this year’s (2024-25) parent pledge and tour fees here.
Note: No singer is ever turned away due to financial reasons, and scholarships are available upon application.
Is the SJBC a religious organization?
No. We were founded by Br. Paul Richards and the monks of Saint John’s Abbey in 1981 and became an independent non-profit in 1993. While we’re grateful for our close relationship with the Abbey and Saint John’s University, we are a separate organization.
Our singers don’t have to practice any religion, and religion is not part of our tradition – other than providing music for a few church services throughout the year, both at home and while on tour.
What are the benefits of joining the SJBC?
We’ll let our families chime in here:
“The SJBC truly teaches incredible life lessons that singers carry with them for the rest of their lives.”
“The SJBC helps boys build confidence while supporting their emotional needs”
“The SJBC is way more than just about singing in a boys’ choir. It is also about learning, growing, and maturing into young men who know how to work as a team, manage their time, and act in a professional and respectable way to become productive members of society in their community.”
“The SJBC develops character, dedication, and a sense of pride in hard work.”
Does my singer need to be an expert musician in order to join the SJBC?
No! We welcome singers of all abilities to audition, and we’re here to guide them on their singing journey. During the audition process, we look for an aptitude for learning and an excitement about music.
Does my singer need to be recommended by their music teacher in order to audition?
Nope! Any singer is welcome to audition.
If my singer joins, how will I stay up to date with all the information I need?
Our weekly email newsletter for SJBC families is a one-stop-shop for all details regarding rehearsals, concerts, tours, wardrobe, fundraisers, and more.
What about transportation to rehearsals and concerts?
We invite all families to carpool to rehearsals and local concerts, and we have regular Parent Association meetings and a Facebook group to help facilitate those connections.
For concerts that are further away from home, the SJBC transports singers by bus.
Can singers in the SJBC participate in other extracurricular activities?
Yes! Our singers are involved in lots of things. While our singers stay busy enough, our rehearsal and performance schedule doesn’t prevent involvement in sports and other activities.
