Sing with Harmonia STellarum!

Harmonia Stellarum Houston (HSH) seeks materials from singers who would like to be considered for our vocalist roster. All voices are welcome to apply.

Modeled after the great European court chapels of the 17th century, Harmonia Stellarum is an ensemble of vocal and instrumental virtuosos who seek to inspire, entertain, and enlighten audiences with meaningful, historically informed performances of well-known as well as newly discovered musical masterworks. 

We present between five and seven programs per season in Houston and are developing our activity beyond our home city. Our 2023/24 season spans from Heinrich Schütz’s Historia der Geburth Jesu Christi and Monteverdi’s Selva morale e spirituale to Mozart’s Missa solemnis in C, K. 66. In most cases, solos are performed by members of the ensemble. We also feature our members in chamber music settings. Rosters vary according to the program and artists are hired on a concert-by-concert basis by Artistic Director Mario Aschauer. Typically, each project requires a commitment of 4 rehearsal days before the concert date.

Artists chosen to be a part of the HSH roster will be featured on our website, may be invited to perform select concert programs in coming seasons, or may be added to a list of substitute performers. Pay is according to HSH’s schedule of fees per service, which is available upon request. Travel to the Houston area is reimbursed and assistance with housing is available for non-local artists. Artists are hired as independent contractors and will receive a 1099.

Applicant Expectations

  • HSH vocalists typically make their primary living as solo and ensemble singers

  • Specialization in and experience with basic concepts of early music performance practices (including pre-modern notation, straight-tone singing, coloratura, mezza di voce, just intonation, etc.) 

  • Experience with various languages (particularly Latin, Italian, and German)

  • Willingness and ability tell a story through music

  • Enthusiasm to be an active member of the ensemble

  • All HSH vocalists are expected to arrive fully prepared (particularly notes, pronunciation, text translation) to the first rehearsal

Applications are accepted any time. To apply email the following materials to HSH’s Artistic Director, Mario Aschauer, at mario.aschauer@harmoniastellarum.com:

  • CV

  • 2–3 video or audio samples, preferably repertoire composed before 1750. Video samples should be uploaded to a video platform such as YouTube or Vimeo and shared via separate (unlisted) links in your email. MP3 files may be attached to your email directly.

HSH is an equal employment opportunity ensemble and welcomes performers of all ethnicities, gender identities, ages, and those who are alternately abled, to submit their materials.