5 Songs from Les Misérables That Make Great Group Audition Pieces
- Garry Anderson
- Jun 19, 2025
- 6 min read
When it comes to group auditions, finding a musical number that showcases every performer can be tricky - but Les Misérables offers the perfect solution. With its sweeping melodies, layered harmonies, and rich character contrasts, Les Mis gives groups the chance to act, sing, and connect all in one go.
Whether you're auditioning a full cast, prepping for a showcase, or running a musical theatre workshop, these group songs are dramatic, dynamic, and flexible - giving every participant a chance to shine.
In this post, we'll explore five standout Les Misérables songs that work brilliantly for group auditions - plus tips on how to break them down into audition-friendly chunks.
Let's dive in.
Why Choose a Group Audition Piece from Les Mis?
With decades of productions behind it and a reputation for unforgettable music, Les Mis remains one of the most popular choices for audition panels - and not just for soloists. Its ensemble numbers are packed with variety, meaning you can showcase multiple performers in a way that feels cohesive, dramatic, and musically impressive.
Here's what makes Les Misérables a standout option for group auditions:
Strong Harmonies and Vocal Contrasts
From soaring soprano lines to rich baritone harmonies, Les Mis offers built-in vocal variety. Its ensemble songs are structured to highlight different ranges, which is perfect for showing off the group's collective talent while keeping the musical texture full and engaging.
Built-in Drama and Storytelling
You don't need fancy costumes or staging - the drama is in the music. Every group number is Les Mis carries a clear emotional arc, whether it's defiance, despair, hope, or unity. That makes it easy to turn an audition into a mini-performance with just a bit of direction.
Multiple Solo Lines = Opportunities For All
The songs in Les Mis naturally include interwoven solo moments. This allows you to give several performers a spotlight moment while keeping them connected to the overall group sound. It's a great way to showcase individual strengths without losing the ensemble dynamic.
What to Look for in a Group Audition Piece
When selecting a group audition song, it's not just about how good it sounds - it's about how well it showcases your group's range, energy, and connection. You want something that feels complete, even in a short extract, and leaves a clear impression of what your team can bring to a production.
Here are three key elements to look for:
Range of Character Parts
A strong group piece should offer contrasting character voices - maybe a leader figure, a narrator-style line, a voice of dissent, or a unified chorus. The more diverse the character moments, the more your group can show their acting choices, tone variation, and personality.
Balanced Vocal Distribution
It's essential to find a song where everyone gets a moment - not necessarily equal length, but enough for each voice to be heard. This allows directors to get a sense of the individual strengths within the group while also evaluating the overall blend.
Opportunities for Staging and Dynamic Delivery
Even the most stripped-back audition benefits from a little movement and interaction. Look for songs with built-in call-and-response, tension, or pacing shifts that let your group explore stage presence, dynamics, and ensemble awareness.
The Top 5 Group Audition Songs from Les Misérables
Whether you're auditioning as a friendship trio, a mixed ensemble, or a full cast, Les Mis has some of the most powerful group numbers ever written. These songs showcase everything from layered harmonies and solo moments to urgent ensemble energy - making them ideal for group auditions where you want to leave an unforgettable impression.
Here are five standout picks that give every group member a moment to shine, all while proving you've got the vocal chops and the dramatic flair. Let's dive in.
1) One Day More
Why it works:
Arguably the most iconic ensemble number in musical theatre, One Day More is a vocal and emotional powerhouse. It intertwines nearly all the major characters' themes, creating a dramatic build with layers of melody, harmony, and counterpoint - all within just a few minutes.
Why it's perfect for group auditions:
Lots of Solos! Each voice type gets a moment: high tenors (Marius), strong altos (Éponine), baritones (Valjean, Enjolras), and even comic character parts (Thénardiers).
Dramatic shifts in tone, pacing, and emotion give your group a chance to showcase versatility.
Choral power in the final section allows your full group to belt as one - perfect for ending on a high.
Pro Tip: Be very careful with your staging and movement. Even just standing in formation with dramatic turns can sell the performance without overcomplicating things.
2) At the End of the Day
Why it works:
This number explodes with urgency, rhythm, and raw emotion. It captures the desperation of the working class, making it ideal for showcasing group cohesion, vocal layering, and acting through song.
Why it's perfect for group auditions:
Distinct vocal sections for women, men, and soloists give everyone a chance to shine.
Sharp ensemble vocals show off rhythm, diction, and musical timing - excellent for gauging group precision.
Built-in drama makes it easy for performers to connect emotionally, even without complex staging.
Pro Tip: Use the natural shifts in the music to build intensity - start tight and reserved, then gradually grow into the defiant final chorus. It's a full-arc performance in under four minutes.
3) Master of the House
Why it works:
Cheeky, character-driven, and full of energy, this classic comic number lets performers show off their comedic timing, and larger-than-life stage presence - all while singing in sync.
Why it's perfect for group auditions:
Two standout solo roles (Thénardier and Madame Thénardier) offer great chances for confident performers to take the spotlight.
Loads of ensemble responses and opportunities for background acting let the full group stay engaged.
Fun physicality and staging potential make this ideal for groups that want to play with movement and props.
Pro Tip: Lean into the humour. Encourage over-the-top expressions and bold character choices - the more ridiculous, the better (within reason). It's a great test of commitment and ensemble chemistry.
4) Lovely Ladies
Why it works:
Dark, gritty, and rich with character moments, "Lovely Ladies" provides a striking contrast to more traditional group numbers. It challenges performers to embody complex roles and handle layered vocal parts - all while staying emotionally present.
Why it's perfect for group auditions:
Features a wide range of solo lines, allowing different vocal types and character interpretations to shine.
Offers opportunities for atmospheric ensemble work, both vocally and physically - think layered harmonies, movement sequences, and facial storytelling.
Ideal for groups who aren't afraid to explore grittier, more emotionally charged material.
Pro Tip: Use minimal but intentional movement or staging to convey the chaotic street environment. Focus on emotional expression and characterisation - it's not about polish, it's about presence.
5) Do You Hear the People Sing?
Why it works:
An iconic anthem of unity and resistance, "Do You Hear the People Sing?" is instantly recognisable and incredibly moving when performed by a passionate group. Its simple melody and powerful lyrics make it easy to learn but emotionally impactful.
Why it's perfect for group auditions:
Unifying group vocal that lets everyone sing together - perfect for gauging how well a cast blends.
Ideal for testing dynamics and control - a group that can go from intimate to explosive shows real promise.
Provides a platform for ensemble storytelling - a director can see leadership, cooperation, and stage presence in action.
Pro Tip: Focus on delivering it like a rally cry. Let the energy build as the voices join together - it's about collective strength and purpose.
Bonus Tip: How to Break These Into Audition-Ready Excerpts
Group numbers are fantastic for auditions, but they often run long or include sections that don't highlight your cast's full range. The key is to trim smartly - preserving the drama, character moments, and vocal balance while keeping it tight and focused.
Here's how:
Choose the Heart of the Song
Pick the segment that best showcases contrasting vocal parts, solo moments, and ensemble power. For One Day More, this might be the final overlapping section. For Master of the House, choose the chunk where all key characters get a few lines.
Limit to 1-2 Minutes
Audition panels want to see your best - fast. Aim for a 60-90 second segment that gives a taste of character work, harmonies, and group cohesion without dragging.
Assign Roles Strategically
Make sure every performer in the group gets at least a line or two. Spread the solos thoughtfully and ensure the ensemble moments allow for blend and energy.
Don't Forget Staging
Even in a small room, give the group simple blocking - interactions, reactions, and purposeful movement can bring your excerpt to life and help performers stand out.
Final Thoughts
Les Misérables is more than just an iconic show - it's a goldmine of audition material for groups looking to make an impact. With rich harmonies, bold characters, and built-in drama, these ensemble numbers let performers show off their voices, their acting, and their teamwork all at once.
Whether you're preparing a group callback, school production audition, or showcase piece, choosing the right song (and the right excerpt) can make all the difference. Look for balance, variety, and moments where every performer can shine - and don't be afraid to get creative with your staging!