Auditions

WHY JOIN THE TONICS?

I asked many of the Tonic alumni "Why did you join the Tonics?". Most of them responded that they had sang in choir in high school and wanted to continue to sing. Some said that they had always wanted to be in a vocal group, while others said that they just wanted something to do.

Then I asked "Now that you're graduated, if you could do it all over again, would you join the Tonics and why?" All of them quickly responded that they would defintely join the group if they could do it all again. Some even asked if I was serious, as if it were a "no-brainer". As for the "why", they told me that it was the best thing that they had done in their college career, if not their lives. The Tonics, they said, were not just a group, but rather family. Between all the great times, funny memories, harmonious singing, crazy costumes, stupid skits, and just spending time with one another, they would never trade that in for anything in the world.

HOW DO I GO ABOUT AUDITIONING FOR THE TONICS?

Anyone can try out for the Tonics as long as they currently attend SUNY Binghamton. In fact, the Tonics encourage everyone who wants to tryout, to do so. Many people who have been accepted into the group have had no previous formal vocal training. So if you think you sing well and have never been in a vocal group before, don't worry! Come down and tryout for the Tonics. If nothing else, the Tonics make auditioning a fun time!

When and where are auditions?
What does an audition consist of?
What can I do to prepare?
What if I tryout for more than one group?
Are all the a capella groups auditions like the Tonics?
What if I don't get into the group?

Q: When and where are auditions?

A: Auditions for the Tonics are held every semester the day after the Dollar Show as well as the day after our semester show. Posters for the Dollar Show and our semester show should be visible all over campus as well as it being posted on our website. The day after both of these shows (usually it’s a Sunday) we hold auditions in the afternoon in Watters Lobby in the Fine Arts Building, unless postered otherwise.

Q: What does an audition consist of?

A: The Audition Process itself is an easy one. If you are interested in auditioning we just ask that you come prepared to sing any song that shows off your voice. We will ask you to sing that song without any accompaniment, for around 30 seconds. Then, we will ask to test your range and also see if you can repeat tones that we play on the piano. The last step of the audition is the call-back, where we will ask you to learn a brief part of one of our songs to see how quickly and efficiently you can learn a part, as well as how well you can blend with the rest of the group.

Q: What can I do to prepare?

A: Find a song that you believe shows off your voice the best. So, if you are a bass, you probably shouldn't pick a song intended for a tenor, and such. Once you found a song, practice it. Remember, auditions are at the beginning and end of every semester. So knowing this, you should intend to practice so that you are ready for one of those auditions. Another way to prepare would be to play a key on the piano and try and repeat that tone back vocally. Also remember that although we are listening to how you sound, we are looking for someone with a good personality and who's willing to have a fun time.

Q: What if I tryout for more than one group?

A: All people auditioning are free to audition for as many groups as they want. If several groups want to take you, it will be up to you, which group to choose.

Q: Are all the a capella groups auditions like the Tonics?

A: The Tonics Audition Process is similar to other acapella groups on campus, but not identical.

Q: What if I don't get into the group?

A: If for some reason you are not accepted into the group, that shouldn’t prevent you from auditioning again. Many members have gotten into the group on their second or third audition. This happens because the group’s needs are always changing. So we strongly encourage you to come back and audition again. With that said, we hope to see you all at the next audition!

the Binghamtonics

co-ed a cappella since 1987