The Vienna Boys Choir is holding auditions in Korea in search of local talents wishing to join the prestigious and historical ensemble, according to Credia, the choir’s local concert promoter.

The announcement comes just a few weeks before the choir’s upcoming concert recitals in Korea, which are slated to be held later this month.

Starting Wednesday, the Vienna Boys Choir will be accepting the first round of applications for boys aged 9 and older. Successful applicants will be personally selected by Gerald Wirth, the choir’s artistic director, who will also oversee the aspiring choir boys’ singing auditions.

One of the best known choirs in the world, the Vienna Boys Choir was founded in 1498. It wasn’t until 1986 that the first non-Austrian was accepted into the choir, with 2010 marking the first Korean boy to join the choir. The ensemble currently has three Korean members.

The Vienna Boys Choir will be performing its New Year’s recitals at the Seoul Arts Center’s Concert Hall on Jan. 23 and Jan. 24. Ticket prices range from 30,000 won ($25) to 100,000 won. For more information, call 1577-5266.

By Julie Jackson (juliejackson@heraldcorp.com)