Fans of the sounds and styles of the 1940s are invited to join the Monmouth Civic Chorus on the evening of Saturday, April 30 for the annual Spring Soirée, presented under the theme “From Big Band to Broadway: Music of the 1940’s.” Hosted at the Navesink Country Club in Middletown, the evening includes a gourmet dinner, with entertainment by Chorus members in a cabaret setting. Guests will enjoy cocktails at the cash bar while bidding on the silent and chance auctions.
More than 100 guests attended last year’s gala, which raised over $11,000 to support concert production expenses. Auction offerings included vacation weekends, original artworks, handmade jewelry and scarves, local restaurants and entertainment, gourmet chocolate and coffee, yoga and spa sessions, gift baskets for babies and pets, and more. Early-bird reservations for the 7 p.m. event are $80 per person if received by April 25. Late reservations are $90, and may be accepted if seats are available; no reservations will be accepted at the door. Go here or call (732)933-9333 for reservations and additional information.
Also on April 30, the MCC will hold its annual scholarship auditions for vocally talented New Jersey high school seniors planning to pursue higher education. Application deadline for auditions (available by appointment only) is April 23, with an application fee of $10. For information or an audition appointment, call (732)933-9333, e-mail [email protected], or visit the MCC website and click Sing.
A total of $2500 in scholarship funds is available to be awarded to students of outstanding vocal promise. Contestants must be prepared to perform two selections from the standard vocal repertoire (opera, operetta, art songs, oratorio or Gilbert and Sullivan), with at least one selection in Italian, French or German. Show music is not acceptable. Contestants will be judged on technique, choice of material, poise and musicianship. An accompanist will be provided if needed.
Last year, First Place went to Nicole Toms, Point Pleasant Borough, who was awarded $2000. Second Place was shared by Mary Roberts of Milford and Selena Siri of Parlin, who were each awarded $500.
