I’ve recently met several young singers in Berlin who are simultaneously earning money singing in the opera chorus on a professional stage, and working on developing a solo career. There used to be a pretty rigid divide between the two but things are different now and there are advantages for both sides. Singers gain valuable professional experience and often find learning the language is easier in a group. There are numerous types of employment including part time. This, along with the benefits and protections of a permanent contract make this an attractive and practical option. Choruses in turn have benefitted from an influx of young talented singers and overall quality has often improved.
I learned much of this from a ZAV agent who places chorus as well as solo singers
He’ll provide me with the latest forms which I’ll pass along as well as advice about how and when to audition.. He has worked as both a soloist and in the chorus so understands the jobs from both sides. I’ve known him for decades and he had a lot of interesting information to share which you’ll get on this site, so stay tuned!