Briar (Rose & Thorn) Choirs

The Briar Chorus — made up of the Rose Choir (tenor/bass) and Thorn Choir (soprano/alto) — offer a high-level ensemble experience with a unique focus on individual vocal development. PSU’s largest concert choir rehearses twice weekly and performs frequently at community sings and concerts throughout the academic year.

While they maintain their distinct identities, Rose and Thorn are true counterparts. They rehearse in tandem and frequently join forces to perform a rich, diverse repertoire that utilizes the full spectrum of choral color.

The Briar Chorus offers a unique environment specifically designed for voice students who are serious about their individual craft.

Auditions are required and open to all students regardless of major.

Audition & Participation Information

Auditions are required for all participants each year and are held throughout the 2 weeks before fall term begins and during the first week of winter and spring terms. 

How to Audition

1. Review the audition details below and prepare in advance.
2. SIGN UP FOR AN AUDITION→ (sign ups open each year in September) If there are no audition slots available, attend our first class session on the first Tuesday of the term at 1:30 PM in Cramer 453.
3. Fill out the audition form before your audition appointment.
4. Arrive at your audition appointment in LH 243D at least 5 minutes before your scheduled time warmed up and ready to sing!

Audition Details

The choir director will be listening to tone quality of the voice, pitch matching, tonal memory, ear training, and sight reading. Priority placement is given to students who can participate in the choir for all subsequent terms in the academic year.

The audition lasts approximately 10–15 minutes and assesses:

1. Vocal Range: Simple vocalizing to determine your voice part and range.
2. Ear Training: Melody memorization exercises.
3. Literacy: Sight-singing and rhythm reading.
4. Prepared Excerpts These are added when audition dates become available.
5. Solo Song: Prepare a short excerpt (30–60 seconds) to be sung a cappella (no piano or backing track). This can be Classical, Musical Theater, Folk, Pop, or the genre of your choosing.

Notification Process

Audition results are given in the audition or posted the weekend before the start of the term.

Requirements & Expectations

Choir members should demonstrate positive, respectful behavior in all classes and school related activities, maintain academic excellence (passing grades) in all classes at all times. The schedule for the year will be provided at or before the first class meeting. Attendance is mandatory at all class meetings, rehearsals, and performances. The first class meeting for both Rose and Thorn Choirs each term is in Cramer Hall 453. 

Performances
Minimum of 1 performance per term that is required, but varies each term and can include up to 3 performances per term. The schedule is provided at the start of the academic year.

Courses
The ensembles meet twice weekly for intensive sessions focused on vocal pedagogy, sight-reading, and ensemble blend. Upon a successful audition, students should register for the appropriate course level:

Past Performances

PSU's Music programs are accredited by the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM).