Audition for Orphei Drängar

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Orphei Drängar is one of Sweden’s leading male choirs, with roots dating back to 1853. Join a choir with a rich musical heritage, an international reputation, and a passion for artistic excellence.

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On one hand, OD is an internationally acclaimed male choir that tours the world, collaborates with leading artists, and releases acclaimed recordings.

On the other, we are much more than a choir. We are a community where almost every member contributes beyond the music itself, bringing unique skills, experience, and commitment to the organisation.

Both aspects of OD demand dedication, musical ability, and time. But few choirs offer so much in return—inspiring musical experiences, lifelong friendships, and unforgettable moments on stage.

Would You Like to Join OD?

We welcome new singers every year. Auditions are usually held in late January and again in late August or early September.

During your audition, you will meet several members of the choir. Conductor Cecilia Rydinger Alin and vocal coach Lars Johansson Brissman lead the audition, together with an additional five to seven choir members. We allow plenty of time for every candidate and aim to make the experience as welcoming and relaxed as possible—even though we know auditions can feel demanding.

To get to know you and your voice, the audition consists of the following elements:

Vocal Range – You'll sing a series of scales to demonstrate your vocal range.
Aural Test – You'll sing intervals and other exercises played on the piano.
Solo Performance – Prepare either a song of your own choice or one from the audition repertoire sent to you in advance.
Sight Reading – You'll sing your part in a piece of music you've never seen before.
Quartet Singing – You'll perform your part together with three OD singers in a piece provided beforehand.
Interview – We'll ask a few questions about you, your musical background, what you do outside music, and your future plans.

The next auditions will take place on Sunday, 6 September 2026.

Please submit your application no later than Thursday, 3 September 2026, using the application form below.

Auditions are held in Uppsala, and successful applicants will be notified within approximately two weeks.

Please note that OD has a retirement age of 55.

We look forward to welcoming you to OD.

Application Form

Would you like to know more? Contact our Secretary at secretary@od.se.

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Said about OD

I had incredibly high expectations of OD. They exceeded every one of them. Spontaneous and professional. Wild and beautiful. Generous, warm, and an absolute delight!

Per Andersson
Comedian

Frequently Asked Questions About Singing with Orphei Drängar

Who can apply to Orphei Drängar?

Any man who enjoys singing—whether in a choir, as a soloist, or simply at home—is welcome to apply. What matters most is that you have a good voice, a love of singing, and the time to commit. We welcome applications from both tenors and basses.

Do I need formal musical training?

No. Your singing ability is what matters—not your résumé. Some of our members have sung all their lives without formal education, while others are professional musicians. That diversity is one of OD’s greatest strengths.

What does the audition involve?

The audition consists of several vocal and musical exercises that allow us to assess your voice, intonation, musical ear, and ability to sing in an ensemble. Final admission is decided by a vote of the choir following the audition.

How much time does choir membership require?

We rehearse every Tuesday evening from 7:00–10:00 PM, except during the summer and Christmas breaks, amounting to approximately 35 rehearsals each year. Before concerts, an additional four to six rehearsals are normally scheduled.

Where does OD rehearse?

We rehearse in Uppsala. Living or working within reasonable travelling distance is therefore a practical requirement for participating regularly.

Said about OD

Orphei Drängar is an explosion of intellect, emotion, intensity, and precision.

Peter Sellars

Director

OD possesses a rare combination of strength, energy, and a spirit of discovery.

Esa-Pekka Salonen

Conductor and Composer

Finally experiencing Caprice with OD – now I feel so much better!

Helen Sjöholm

Singer

I had incredibly high expectations of OD. They exceeded every one of them. Spontaneous and professional. Wild and beautiful. Generous, warm, and simply an absolute joy.

Per Andersson

Comedian

Just seeing them is exhilarating. Then they start to sing, and it's pure bliss.

Petra Mede

Comedian

With OD behind me, I felt invincible.

Ola Salo

Singer

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In the presence of OD, beautiful music comes to life. Their singing spreads warmth and light. OD has a permanent place in my heart!

Kristin Amparo

Singer

They really got to the depths of Sibelius music. I cannot think of any other choir to perform Sibelius with.

Santtu-Matias Rouvali

Chief Conductor, Gothenburg Symphony Orchestra

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OD is a national treasure with the most beautiful male choral sound in the world!

Malena Ernman

Mezzo-soprano

A truly unforgettable experience, both musically and spiritually, that I will carry with me for many years to come.

Andreas Nilsson

Actor

Working with this wonderful group of incredibly kind, immensely talented, and exceptionally handsome gentlemen was one of the most enjoyable experiences of my career!

Anne Sofie von Otter

Mezzo-soprano

OD is like a dream (with a great many tailcoats)!

Henrik Dorsin

Comedian and Revue Writer

A dream come true to sing alongside 80 such handsome men!

Rickard Söderberg

The Gay Tenor

Since 1853

This is Orphei Drängar

Tradition

3,322 singers in an unbroken chain since 1853. Each generation has added its own voice to those before it. That is how our legacy lives on.

Renewal

We commission new choral works, bring together seasoned voices and younger singers, and continue to find new paths for the male choral tradition.

The Sound

115 active singers. Mature resonance meets youthful energy, creating a richness and complexity that can only truly be experienced live.

The Stage

From the steps of Carolina Rediviva to the world’s leading concert halls. 253 tours across 28 countries — and every performance is a new premiere.

Our partners

Experience one of the world's most distinguished male choirs.

We would be delighted to meet you on your stage, in your concert hall, or around your table.

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