2023 Madrigal Auditions

We are so excited to welcome back our annual Madrigal production in December of 2023. The Lincoln-Way East Madrigals consist of costumed vocal and instrumental ensembles who perform Medieval and Renaissance music. Along with the musical entertainment, Shakespearean actors muse the audience with humor and medieval stories. Please join us this year as we celebrate a great tradition of excellence here at Lincoln-Way East! ​

When are auditions? 
Madrigal auditions will take place on Tuesday, August 22nd from 3-6pm in the choir room for both actors & vocal groups. 

What do I have to prepare for auditions? 
Vocalists must prepare the first verse only of Now is the month of maying. Tenors should learn BOTH the 3rd & 4th lines (tenor & baritone). Basses should learn BOTH the 4th & 5th lines (baritone & bass). Both repeats (at measure 8 & measure 16) should be taken. The first time around, page 1 should be sung forte, and the repeat should be sung piano. Page 2 should then be sung forte and then piano. 

This reference recording is in a different key, but it will give you an idea of what the piece sounds like. 
Here is another reference recording of the King Singers in the correct key. 

This is a soprano practice track in the correct key. 
​This is an alto practice track in the correct key. 
​This is a tenor practice track in the correct key. 
This is a tenor 2/baritone practice track in the correct key. 
​This is a bass practice track in the correct key. 
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Actors may choose to read for either the Steward, Jester, Wench, King or Queen, though students may be asked to read for more than one character at auditions. 

Audition forms must be submitted prior to auditions, no exceptions. Please review the Madrigal calendar prior to filling out the form to ensure you can attend rehearsals, tech week, and performances. You must include any conflicts on your audition form. 

​Access the audition form here. 
Access the calendar here. 

Can I audition for a vocal ensemble and actors? 
Yes, you will be asked on your audition form which group you prefer to be a part of; however, you will be considered for both. 

To be considered for a vocal ensemble, you must be enrolled in a curricular choir class.

When do the Madrigal groups rehearse? 
Vocal ensembles will typically rehearse on Tuesdays from 3-6pm and Thursdays from 3-5pm. Students auditioning must be sure they can attend all rehearsals for the full time. We do work around the marching band schedule, and we understand that LWMB students may have to leave early for practice. 

Please consider conflicts (other clubs/activities, appointments, etc.) before deciding to audition. Thoroughly review the calendar with your parent(s)/guardian(s). Please note that outside performances* are not yet included. If students are absent for more than 2 rehearsals (barring emergencies), their participation in the Madrigal production will be reconsidered. 

Actors will receive their schedule upon submitting their conflicts to Ms. Gina the first week of school. Most of the time, we are able to work around everyone’s schedules. 

*See next question

Are there any other obligations outside of rehearsals? 
YES. Outside of our Tuesday/Thursday rehearsal schedule, it is required for Madrigal students to be present at the full-cast run throughs (November 7th, 8th, & 9th), Madrigal set-up (November 20th), tech week rehearsals and performances (see calendar). Madrigal vocal ensembles also tend to have outside performances at local libraries, churches, etc. Those performances are not decided upon until the fall, and we usually consider students’ availability prior to booking these performances. 

How many vocal groups will there be this year? 
The structure of vocal groups is unknown year to year; it really depends on audition turnout and voice part distribution. 

How can I get help with the music? 
We will be hosting a 2 Madrigal prep sessions during the first week of school. 

Tuesday, August 15th from 3-5pm in the Choir Room at Lincoln-Way East 
Thursday, August 17th from 3-5pm in the Choir Room at Lincoln-Way East 

Is there a fee associated with Madrigals? 
Yes, and please note the fee increase for the upcoming school year. As we have reintroduced Madrigal dinners and prices for meals, cleaning, and apparel have increased, the fees for each group are as follows: 

$125 vocalists 
$100 actors 
$75 instrumentalists 


What if I have more questions? 
Please direct any questions you have to Ms. Samawi at hsamawi@lw210.org, and do not hesitate to ask! 

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