RANDOLPH – The Chandler has announced auditions for the second annual Next Generation performance on Tuesday March 30.

Auditions are open to area high school students 18 years and younger who are seriously studying classical music of all genres - instrumental, ensemble, or vocal, as soloists or groups. Inspired by the successful 2007 performance at Chandler Music Hall in Randolph of National Public Radio's youth showcase, From the Top, presenters at Chandler created a look-alike program called The Next Generation. In May 2009 fourteen talented teenagers from the Champlain Valley, Central Vermont, and the Upper Valley made this new idea a smash hit, performing classical music as pianists, vocalists, a piano/violin duo, and a string quartet. By popular demand this program is becoming a staple of Chandler's season of programming.

Students should come prepared to audition the piece they would perform on May 21. In the interest of providing a performance opportunity for as many qualified students as possible, no more than one movement of a major work may be presented. Instrumentalists and vocal soloists need to provide their own accompanist. The Steinway concert grand available, and the auditions and performance will take place on Chandler’s main stage.

Chandler Music Hall is appreciated not only as a venue for fine performances, but also as community arts organization that is valued for the performance and arts education opportunities it provides area students. Its annual Mud Season Variety Show and Mini Mud Show have given scores of students an opportunity to perform. This newest venture celebrates young students' exceptional talent in the area of classical music and their inspiring dedication to its pursuit and development.

Please contact Betsy Cantlin, Chandler's Community Outreach Manager, for more information about this performance or to schedule an audition. She can be reached outreach@chandler-arts.org 802-431-0204. The deadline for audition registration is March 23.