The film, being directed by Francois Girard of 'The Red Violin' fame, also will feature Alfred Molina and Kathy Bates in supporting roles.
Hoffman will play Choir Master Carvelle, who runs a boys choir school on the East Coast. The story follows a troubled and angry 11-year-old named Stet who is sent off to the school, said the Hollywood Reporter.
The makers are still hunting for the young lead. Molina will play Drake, a teacher at the school while Bates will portray the school's headmistress.