By Christopher Wilkins, Akron Symphony Music Director

We have had two rounds of chorus auditions this fall. The chorus positions are now 95% filled. I am thrilled beyond words at the quality and enthusiasm of our chorus. Without a doubt, it will be one of the most distinuguished professional choruses ever assembled in the Akron area. The lead roles of Porgy, Bess and Crown were offered at the outset to Alvy Powell, Marquita Lister, and Lester Lynch. They are all considered the top artists in the world for this opera. Lester Lynch, as it turns out, is also a native of Northeast Ohio.

We have also heard about 20 people compete for the many remaining solo roles in Porgy and Bess. Several of these singers were invited subsequent to their successful audition for the chorus. The roles still available include Sportin’ Life, Serena, and Clara, among others. A second round of soloist auditions will be held this coming weekend. To this point, we’ve heard fine singers of all levels of experience at these auditions: well established professional singers, young artists just beginning their careers, and exceptional students from schools in the area, including several highly accomplished musicians from the University of Akron.

The Akron Symphony’s production of Porgy and Bess is sponsored by a grant from the John S. and James L. Knight Foundation and will hit the stage at The University of Akron’s E.J. Thomas Hall on Saturday, April 16, 2011. Tickets are available from $20-$40 by calling (330) 535-8131 or online at Ticketmaster.com.