Dedicated to the study and performance of classical and contemporary choral music
John Wilson / Director • Carol Walker / Accompanist
If you can sing, you should sing with us!
Choral Art Society of NJ is a community chorus dedicated to the study and performance of choral masterpieces. Under the direction of Dr. John Wilson, the choir performs two concerts each year, usually with orchestral accompaniment.
CAS is an avocational ensemble; we do not hold formal auditions, though singing and basic music reading ability are required. We always welcome new singers, and we hope you'll consider joining us!
Hear from our previous director, Martin Sędek, about why you should consider joining CAS!
Questions & Answers
If you love to sing and are passionate about sharing the joy of live music, check out the information below to see if CAS is the place for you!
Q:
When and where do you rehearse?
A:
We rehearse on Tuesday evenings from 7:30 – 10 pm between the months of September and May. We also typically have two additional dress rehearsals prior to our concert. Rehearsals are held in the chapel of the Presbyterian Church in Westfield, located at 140 Mountain Avenue. There is a large parking lot adjacent to the entrance to the chapel.
Q:
When do you perform?
A:
Our next concert will be on Sunday, January 26, 2025, at 3 pm in Westfield. We will also have a concert in early May. Additional performance opportunities – on a volunteer basis – sometimes arise for community outreach.
Q:
So, I don't have to audition. But what expectations are there regarding my singing ability?
A:
CAS is an avocational group; the range of ability within the group is quite wide. Some of our members have been singing in choirs their entire lives. Others even have degrees and professional experience in music. But the majority of our singers are people from all vocations who simply have a love of singing in common.
As a CAS singer, you need only have some experience singing (though prior choral singing is helpful), and you should be able to read music. Most importantly, you should share our desire to learn and grow as we pursue our passion for performing live choral music for the Central New Jersey community.
Q:
When does your next season begin?
A:
We begin rehearsing for our winter concert in September. Rehearsals for our spring concert usually start around late January. New singers typically join at the beginning of each season.
Q:
Can I visit and attend a rehearsal before I decide to join?
A:
Absolutely! We encourage it! At the beginning of every season, we host two open rehearsals for interested singers. You are welcome to borrow the music and sing with us for the evening – no commitment, no pressure! If you missed an open rehearsal date, contact us so that we can arrange for you to visit us during a later rehearsal.
Q:
What expenses are associated with membership?
A:
Like most choral organizations, ticket sales do not cover our expenses. We rely on business and personal patrons, grants, fundraisers, and membership dues to help us cover the costs associated with our performances, including paying for rehearsal space, the concert venue, orchestral musicians, professional soloists, licensing & insurance fees, etc.
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Membership dues are $200 for the full year, plus the cost of music (approx. $25/concert). As a member, you are also expected to sell a minimum of 2 tickets to each concert. Members should provide two personal patrons per year. (Patrons can donate any amount, and donations are completely tax deductible.) Members are also encouraged to pursue business patrons to buy ad space in our concert programs. Details are contained in the CAS Membership Agreement.
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If the financial obligations associated with membership present a personal hardship, arrangements can be made. CAS will always work to ensure that no member is prevented from participating based on financial circumstances. Also, singers under the age of 18 and singers who are full-time college students are exempt from membership dues.
Q:
Do you do anything else besides rehearse and perform?
A:
We most certainly do! In addition to being a choral group, we are a social group as well. The first Tuesday of every month, we have an extended break to enjoy refreshments and catch up with each other. This past year, we’ve had an auction fundraiser, a “best costume” Halloween competition, and our annual end-of-year celebration before the beginning of summer. More is in the works for the coming season. Of course, in the end, music is and always will be the core of what brings us all together.
Q:
This all sounds great! How can I join?
A:
We’d love to have you! Please use our contact page to inquire about joining!
Still have questions?
If your question hasn't been answered here, please use our contact page to tell us what you'd like to know, and we'll get back to you as soon as we can.
A Social Society
CAS membership offers experience and education in vocal arts in a friendly, supportive, and very social environment. We are truly a society, and membership in CAS quickly offers a wonderful second family!
Halloween rehearsal and costume contest
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Hanging with our Director
Rehearsal breaks with great snacks
Rehearsal breaks make time for friends!
Rehearsal break selfie
CAS Members Auction Fundraiser
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Rehearsal Memorial Day Event
CAS End of Season Party
Inviting other singers - like the NJ Youth Chorus - to perform with us