5:05 p.m., May 24, 2007--UD's Community Music School is starting a Children's Choir, under the direction of Linda Wardell, as part of the Department of Music's choral music education and performance program.

Any qualified child, from second to eighth grade, with a treble (unchanged) voice and a desire to sing in an outstanding choral ensemble is invited to audition.

Singers will be auditioned to evaluate pitch matching and both rhythmic and melodic reading abilities.

Placement is based on musical and vocal readiness, emotional maturity, consistency of focus, attitude and leadership. The choir will be a performance-based extension of the music education children receive in school.

Auditions at the Amy E. du Pont Music Building are slated for 5-6:30 p.m., Tuesday, May 29; 3:30-5 p.m., Monday, July 30; and 3:30-5 p.m., Wednesday, Aug. 1.

To schedule an audition and request a brochure, call (302) 831-1527. For more information, visit [http://cms.music.udel.edu/childrenschoir.html].

Cost is $350 per year for 30 weeks with a $25 registration fee, which will be waived for applications received by Aug. 15. Rehearsal times are 5:15-6:45 p.m., Tuesdays, beginning in early September and coinciding with the school calendar. All rehearsals will be held in the Amy E. du Pont Music Building.