This is a document I have put together outlining expectations for the choir.
I think it is important to almost state the obvious and it has not come about from a need but more due to discussion I was involved in on my choral directors course over the summer (yes, in Leeds Malcolm!! 😊 ) to clarify – so members old and new are all ‘singing from the same song sheet’ !!
Conductor and Singer Responsibilities
My responsibilities include choosing the appropriate repertoire for this group, teaching the musical components of the pieces, helping you with vocal productions and techniques, leading rehearsals, providing you with resources for learning your music, and preparing the group for performances.
Your responsibilities include taking individual notes, staying vocally healthy, learning your part, working within your section for group unity, making notes in your music, attending the required number of rehearsals and performances and practicing your music at home.
Rehearsal Expectations
The purpose of our weekly rehearsal is to teach the music at the ensemble level; working on techniques such as unity, blend, tuning and intonation, vocal production, musical expression and having fun. Improving your individual parts should be done outside of rehearsal (see practice expectations below).
Rehearsals will start with a combination of physical and vocal warm-ups followed run-throughs of the music all together. During warm-ups, we will focus on vocal technique and production and confidence as singers including socialising exercises. The run-through section will help with solidify your part as it fits within the overall ensemble.
Singers are required to bring their music, a pencil and water to every rehearsal. If you are unsure of how to mark your music, please ask for help.
During rehearsals, please feel able to ask questions if you do not understand a musical point or what you are being asked to do. Please do not feel your query is too trivial- it may be what the rest of the section is thinking too!
Practice Expectations
Practice doesn’t make perfect, but it certainly makes improvements! As choir members, it is your responsibility to practice your music at home. I have provided you with listening tracks on the website to make this process as simple as possible.
By putting in time to practice at home, you will begin to learn your music at a faster pace, enhance your vocal production skills, and improve the musical abilities of the chorus.
The necessary practice time depends on the individual. I recommend planning thirty minutes to one hour a week for at-home practice, but any practice time will make a difference! Set up a weekly appointment in your calendar for practicing your music to help develop healthy practice habits and hold yourself accountable. A quiet environment alone is typically the most conducive for practicing. Consider section or small group practices with your fellow singers in the week between rehearsals.
Please ask for any additional help needed.
Happy practicing!!!
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