Before their upcoming performance season begins later this year, the Valley Concert Chorale is currently searching for a number of experienced and talented people to sing among them in upcoming shows.

The group will be conducting auditions for its 2023-24 season, "Music to Soothe Your Soul", throughout this month. Tryouts are set for the next two Mondays (Sept. 11 and Sept. 18) at the First Presbyterian Church in Livermore.

VCC is looking for seasoned singers with sight-reading abilities, as well as those who enjoy performing "exciting and challenging music".

Interested vocalists are encouraged to reach out and book an audition appointment by calling the group's general information line at 925-866-4003. During the 15-minute appointment, singers will be asked to sight-read a page of motet, perform a clapping exercise and have their vocal range designated.

In a typical season, the chorale performs three concert sets out of a wide variety of music styles, ranging from modern to classical to contemporary.

This season's performances are set to kick off with the annual holiday concert held in December, called "The Miracle of Christmas". The group will then follow up with a series of performances in the spring of 2024.

"The March concerts will include Faure's 'Cantique de Jean Racine', Mozart's 'Ave Verum', Durufle's 'In Paradisum' from his 'Requiem' and of contemporary choral composers Ola Gjeilo and Peteris Vasks," chorale members said in a statement.

"May's concert, titled 'On the Lighter Side', includes songs by Nat King Cole, Billy Joel, Elton John and Disney's Movie Magic," they added.

VCC has been active in the region for over 60 years.

The nonprofit vocal group has maintained its goal to engage audiences through the power of music -- continuing to operate completely on volunteers and through donations, fundraisers and ticket sales.

Artistic director and conductor, John Emory Bush, has commanded the chorus since 1998. Bush, who was trained at the Juilliard School of Music, also plays piano, organ and harp.

More information on the audition process or upcoming shows of the chorus can be found at www.valleyconcertchorale.org.