Download What Other Things Do Members Pay For?

(Chorus Name)
Member Handbook
Instructions
The Member Handbook provides basic information about Sweet Adelines
International plus specific content about your chorus and region.
As each chapter and region has its own activities, events, traditions,
personality and procedures, you will want to customize the handbook.
Most sections provide sample wording that may be useful to you. If
particular information fits your chapter, include it; if not, edit it to fit your
purpose. For instance, spell out your costume and makeup information.
Include the specific dates for shows and other activities.
The Member Handbook is created with the text font Helvetica. Main
headings are point size 22, section headings are point size 14, subheadings are point size 12 and body text is point size 11. Please note that
italicized items in parentheses are for your information only and should be
deleted before final distribution.
The information in this handbook is intended to be a resource to new
members. We have taken care not to include too much in this first edition,
as new members may feel overwhelmed if they receive more than is
necessary. As time goes by, consistently deliver information in other ways,
such as through Big Sisters or a buddy system, special orientation
sessions, or by using your chapter Web site, e-mail and publications.
Periodically update the handbook’s information and utilize it as one of your
many tools in membership retention.
Special Thanks:
In creating this Member Handbook, the International Membership
Committee asked for help from many chapters. We examined a number of
chapter membership materials, and appreciate the creativity and
knowledge reflected in each. Thank you to these chapters, in particular,
whose membership handbooks served as models for this one:
Bay Area Showcase Chapter, San Jose, California, Region 12
Dogwood Blossoms Chapter, Mt. Vernon, Ohio, Region 17
Houston Horizon Chapter, Houston, Texas, Region 10
Spirit of Liberty Chapter, Willow Grove, Pennsylvania, Region 19
Toast of Tampa Show Chapter, Tampa, Florida, Region 9
Mission
(Use this page after the title page, insert your chorus' mission statement/vision
statement. See Guide to Real Growth, Section One)
Sweet Adelines International is a worldwide organization of women
singers committed to advancing the musical art form of barbershop
harmony through education and performance.
Handbook Contents
People in Our Chapter
Roster
Chapter Structure
About Our Director
Structure of Sweet Adelines International
Chapter Organization
Chapter Activities
Regional Organization
Regional Activities
International Organization
International Activities
Nuts and Bolts
Financial Information
Bylaws and Standing Rules
Chorus Goals
Calendar
Policies
Job Descriptions
Protocol
Terminology
Performance Readiness
Learning Music
Learning to Perform
Attendance Guidelines
Costuming
Makeup
Chapter Show
Regional Conventions
International Conventions
Membership Information
Membership Requirements
Leave Request
People in our Chapter
This section helps us get to know one another better. The roster of chorus
members enables us to connect between chorus rehearsals. Knowing how our
Sweet Adeline chapter is organized will help you know who to contact with
various questions or concerns. A little background information about the director
is included so that you can become better acquainted with our musical leader.
Because our chorus continues to grow and change, this section requires frequent
updating. Add in names of new members as they join. If chorus jobs change,
correct your copy to keep it current. When the handbook is officially updated
each year, you will receive copies of the new pages.
Roster (Chapter Directory)
(insert Chapter Directory here)
Chapter Structure
Describe in words or graphic form how your chapter is governed (by board of
directors or management team) and outline its committees. An organizational
chart is a good way to provide members with this information.
About Our Director
Many choruses write a short informational piece about the director when they
develop show programs. Add a little more information to that document, or use it
as written. Or, consider interviewing him/her and writing a new piece. Ask
questions like: How did you begin your Sweet Adeline career? What part do you
sing? Have you sung in a quartet? What words of wisdom would you offer a new
member? Do you have a career outside the home? Are you active at the regional
and/or international level of the organization? If yes, how so?
Structure of
Sweet Adelines International
Throughout the world, Sweet Adelines are singing four-part harmony. Tied
together by our love for this unique art form and by the friendships that develop
around it, we have grown into an organization that enriches the lives of its
members and its audiences. This section of the handbook will acquaint you with
the structure of the Sweet Adelines International organization.
Chapter Organization
When you joined Sweet Adelines International, most likely you joined a chorus, or
chapter of the organization. Guided by a set of bylaws, which are consistent for
all, each chapter develops its own standing rules to help the chorus function
effectively. Members vote on any revisions to these rules, as chapter needs
change. Some choruses elect a board of directors to guide the chorus; others
choose a management team. A board of directors governs our chorus.
(Note: Change last sentence if a management team governs your chorus.)
2009-2010 (Insert correct year) Board of Directors (or Management
Team) for (Chorus)
Chapter Activities
Our chorus, like other service and arts organizations, is an asset to the community.
We entertain at civic events and charitable functions, and participate in many other
activities such as ways-and-means projects and social events. Following is a brief
description of the activities you will enjoy as a member of our chorus:
Annual Chapter Show
Our annual show provides a main source of income for the year. It is an
opportunity to entertain local audiences and may motivate interested women to
join the chorus.
Because show production requires many months of planning and committee work,
all of us are involved. Not only is our annual show a primary fundraiser for the
year, but it also is a catalyst for friendships formed as we work together. Our next
show will be (add current information).
(Add other chapter activities here.)
Regional Organization
Sweet Adelines International choruses are divided into geographic regions, each
governed by a management team. The team of elected and appointed
coordinators is responsible for guiding the smooth operation of the region. Our
chorus is part of (Customize this information to fit your chorus' region.)
Together, the regional management team performs the following duties:
 Serves as middle management and liaison to the international organization.
 Oversees activities of the region.
 Develops education focus for the region.
 Assesses the educational needs of the region and plan programs to meet
those needs.
 Develops long-range plans based on the goals and values of the regional
membership.
 Oversees and evaluates the implementation of long-range plans.
 Accepts fiduciary responsibility for the region; monitors regional financial
processes.
 Develops a structure of task-oriented groups (teams, committees, staffs)
that are responsible for devising strategies to implement plans determined
by the management team.
 Monitors chapter compliance with corporate and regional bylaws,
international policies and administrative procedures.
 Provides counseling to individual chapters.
 Ensures open communication at all levels of the region.
 Oversees election/appointment process.
Following are brief descriptions of each position:
Communications Coordinator (Regional Appointment) Maintains internal communication channels among the region, chapters, and
individual members and receives and disperses communications from the
international organization to the region.
Directors' Coordinator (Elected by directors in the region) –
Assesses and communicates directors' needs within the region and represents the
interests of the region's directors on the Regional Management Team.
Education Coordinator (International Appointment) –
Plans curriculum for educational events such as seminars and workshops and
develops, coordinates, and monitors regional education programs.
Events Coordinator (Regional Appointment) –
Facilitates securing appropriate venues for regional programs and events,
including site inspections and negotiation of contracts.
Finance Coordinator (Regional Appointment) –
Ensures that all financial resources of the region are accounted for in an effective
and efficient manner.
Marketing Coordinator (Regional Appointment) –
Develops and provides marketing and public relations programs that promote
chapter and regional events, and membership growth and retention.
Membership Coordinator (Elected by members in the region) Plans and implements membership growth and retention programs, guides
prospective chapters through the Steps program, and assists chapters in
revitalization.
Team Coordinator (Regional Appointment) Facilitates meetings of the Regional Management Team, maintains the region's
long-range plan document, and reviews and approves all chapter standing rules.
2009-2010 (Insert correct year) Regional Coordinators for Region (Insert
Region # and Name)
(Note: Type in the names of your regional coordinators, placing the names before
the titles; i.e., "Mary Brown, Chapter Coordinator.")
Communications Coordinator
Directors' Coordinator
Education Coordinator
Events Coordinator
Finance Coordinator
Marketing Coordinator
Membership Coordinator
Team Coordinator
Regional Activities
Each year, our region conducts special activities and events, which are publicized
on the regional Web site (insert Web address), regional newsletter and through
regional mailings. The educational opportunities these activities provide are the
strength of our organization, and the friendships you'll form through attendance will
enrich your Sweet Adeline experience. Following is a brief description of the
activities you will enjoy as a member of the region:
Regional Convention and Competition
Each spring, our regional convention showcases choruses and quartets from
around the region. By competing, we not only have fun, but we also raise our level
of performance by working toward specific musical goals. The performances we
hold for the public throughout the year become better and better as a direct result
of these competition preparations.
(Include specific information about your region's convention.)
Regional Weekends
Several times a year, educational seminars are the focus of our regional
weekends. Skilled faculty teaches classes in every aspect of barbershop harmony,
including visual performance (choreography, make-up, costuming), vocal
production, the judging categories, music arranging, and leadership training. The
networking sessions for chorus presidents, membership chairs, public relations
chairs, and others also are held. In addition, traditional performing events occur
during these weekends.
(Include specific information about your region's educational weekends plus any
additional regional activities.)
Leadership Training
Many leaders are created in the Sweet Adelines organization. Although all
members bring with them a unique set of skills when they join, there is ample
opportunity to extend those skills and develop new ones. Musical leaders are
offered coaching, special classes, and weekend events devoted to honing their
skills. Administrative leaders also have opportunities for training.
Other Regional Activities
(Add other regional activities here.)
International Organization
Barbershop harmony is one of four types of music indigenous to the United States.
The enjoyment of singing four-part harmony in this unique a cappella style has
assured its worldwide popularity. Singers from many countries benefit from
membership in Sweet Adelines. We, the individual members, are the foundation
for the structure of this nonprofit organization.
The International Board of Directors (IBOD) sets policy for the organization,
maintains fiduciary responsibility, and oversees its strategic plan. Under its
leadership, various committees are directed to develop and implement the
programs of Sweet Adelines International. Additionally, the IBOD directs our
headquarters executive management team and staff, who are employees of the
organization.
Twelve members make up the international board. Ten members are elected by
the general membership to serve three-year terms. Two additional members are
appointed annually to serve one-year terms.
2010-2011 (Insert correct year) International Board of Directors: (Note:
Type in the names of International Board members, placing the names before the
titles; i.e., "Mary Brown, Board member.")
President
President-elect
Vice President
Secretary
Treasurer
Immediate Past President
Board member
Board member
Board member
Board member
The headquarters executive management team and staff conduct the business
of the nonprofit corporation and assist in the implementation of programs, as
directed by the International Board. The headquarters office, owned and operated
by Sweet Adelines International, is located in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Be sure to visit
our building when you are in Tulsa.
International Activities
Just as your chapter and regional organizations sponsor events, so does the
international organization.
International Convention
Held in the fall, international convention brings together Sweet Adelines from all
over the world. Convention activities educate, entertain, and nourish worldwide
friendships. Front and center are the choruses and quartets who have qualified to
compete in the international contests that occur at this convention.
Share in the excitement of the Harmony Classic Competition as the ten best small
and mid-sized choruses present entertaining 12-15 minute performance packages.
Women aged 25 and younger who enjoy singing in barbershop quartets may
perform in the Rising Star Quartet Contest. Whether audience or competitors,
participants thrill at the top-level performances exhibited each year.
This year's international convention will be held (add current information).
Nuts and Bolts
This section of your handbook includes the rules of the organization. It provides
the financial information you need to plan ahead, as well as describes the goals
of our chapter, the calendar (long-term and short-term), and the policies and
protocol for situations unique to our chorus or to Sweet Adelines and the
barbershop culture. This section also explains the work various chapter leaders
do to help the chorus function, and provides a glossary of terms you'll hear
frequently. If you have questions about any of this material, just ask your chorus
leaders.
Financial Information
Following is a summary of the financial commitments associated with being a
member of the (Chorus Name) of Sweet Adelines International.
As you review this information, please keep in mind that not all amounts are due
right away. Some expenses will occur much later in the year, and some are
optional. This information is provided to allow you time to budget your expenses
and to discuss any questions or concerns you may have with the membership
representative or the chorus treasurer.
Dues and Per Capita Fees
Our chorus dues are $___ per month, payable quarterly ($___ per quarter),
for a total of $____ per year. You submit your first month's dues with your
membership application. After your application has been accepted, you should
contact the Financial Coordinator or Chorus Treasurer to set up your payment
plan for the remainder of the year. You may pay quarterly (May 1, August 1,
November 1, and February 1) or yearly (our fiscal year begins on May 1).
In addition, Sweet Adelines International collects a per capita fee of $___ per
year from each member to support the programs managed at the international
level. This fee is due in full when you apply for membership, and annually
thereafter, during your anniversary month.
Members age 25 and under pay half the amounts stated above, or $___ per
month for chorus dues and $ per year for per capita fees.
Once you become a member, you can set up an escrow (pay-in-advance)
account to accumulate the $ per capita fee payable on your next anniversary.
The escrow account is fully refundable if you leave the chorus. Sweet Adelines
also offers a lifetime membership available for $___. If you become a life
member, you won't have to concern yourself with per capita fees or escrow
accounts again. Also, Sweet Adelines International offers multi-year discounts.
(Customize this dues information to your chapter’s dues payment amounts and
schedule of payments.)
What Happens to the Money?
Your international per capita fees are sent to Sweet Adelines International
headquarters, which uses them to provide educational programs, member
services, publications, training and accreditation of judges, and staff to handle
the logistics of a 25,000 member organization.
A portion of your chorus dues also is sent to the region, which uses the funds to
support education, membership development, and administration of the activities
and programs provided by the region. Our chorus receives support from the
region to help defray some of our outside coaching costs as well as other
expenses involved in preparing to represent the region at an international
competition.
The remainder of your chorus dues supports chorus operations such as paying
for rehearsal facilities and risers, paying a nominal fee to our director, paying for
our music and covering all the administrative, telephone, and printing costs
associated with our busy chorus life. Other expenses incurred by the chorus,
such as outside coaching, costume materials, refreshments, etc., are paid for
from other monies (not dues). We raise such funds through performances,
shows, and fundraising events and projects. In creating our yearly budget, we
follow the guideline that at least 75 percent of our total funds will be used to
support the musical program of the chorus.
(Customize this information to your chapter’s funding allocations.)
What Other Things Do Members Pay For?
Despite keeping our dues at a level to cover chorus operations and spending a
minimum of 75 percent on the chorus musical program, some optional expenses
still have to be paid by members. If you only attend chorus rehearsals, then you
will not incur any additional expenses, though you might miss out on some of fun
and exciting learning and performing opportunities.
(Explain what the other expenses are: explicit information on costume expenses,
makeup, hairstyling, retreats, regional weekends and convention, and
international convention.)
Paying Your Expenses
Every effort will be made to announce upcoming expenses well in advance of the
due date. The chorus operates on a "pay-as-you-go" basis, meaning that
payment is expected at the time you sign up for an activity or item. Checks
should be made payable to " Chorus Name." Please be sure to indicate on the
check exactly what items or events you are paying for, especially if you are
combining several into one check. If you have questions or concerns, please talk
to one of us.
(List appropriate personnel that can answer financial questions.)
Bylaws and Standing Rules
Our chapter is governed by two sets of rules: Standard Form Chapter Bylaws
(either Board of Directors or Management Team as determined by the chapter)
and Chapter Standing Rules.
Standard Form Chapter Bylaws are set by our international organization, and
they are the framework upon which all chapters are structured. These bylaws
may be amended only by a two-thirds affirmative vote of the International Board
of Directors.
Chapter Standing Rules are the rules we set for ourselves, using guidelines
provided by the international organization. Standing rules are flexible, and
should be reviewed frequently to ensure that they continue to meet our needs.
When a standing rule no longer serves us well, we can change it, provided it
does not conflict with Chapter Bylaws. All chapter members vote on proposed
changes to the Chapter Standing Rules.
Chorus Goals
(Include the chorus' goals or strategic plan)
Chorus Calendar
(Include the calendar of rehearsals and events for the upcoming year, as well as
an outline of long-term plans. Most choruses try to plan coaching sessions,
shows, and retreats up to three years ahead.)
Policies
Policies are decisions made by the chapter board or management team about
how to handle situations that arise frequently, but which may not be specifically
defined in the chapter's standing rules. For instance:
Escrow of Per Capita Fees: Escrow (paying per capita fees in advance and
having them held in the chorus treasury until they are due) is an option for chorus
members. Paying dues in advance or holding them in escrow helps keep the
chorus financially healthy.
(Include pertinent chapter, regional and/or international policies)
Chorus Job Descriptions
(Include chorus job descriptions here)
Protocol
Protocol defines the "appropriate" way to handle situations or behave in our
organization. Some of the policies your chapter embraces may suggest certain
protocol. For instance, it is important for members to know whom to talk with
when they have concerns. If she doesn't understand something about the
director's interpretation of a song, how does she go about communicating her
problem? Protocol also includes courtesies that may be unique to our
organization; such as fifth wheeling, or singing as a fifth member of a quartet, is
not considered polite. New members need to know about our organization’s
etiquette and intricacies.
(Include chapter protocol here)
Terminology
Afterglow
All-in-One
Break a Leg!
Chest Voice
(Register)
Chorus Position
Cast party after a show or performance
Undergarment worn under costumes
Said to wish someone well in performance
Lower range of voice
Downstage foot slightly in front of the other foot, facing the
director
Cluster Chord
When more than four parts are being sung (someone singing
a wrong note)
Cone
Balance of barbershop sound
Coning
The art of adjusting to maintain the proper balance of a
barbershop chord
Coronet Club
Association of all past International Champion Quartets
Diphthong
Two vowel sounds sung on one note, with greatest stress on
first vowel (A =Ay-ee, O = Oh-oo, I = Ah-ee)
Double
Two parts on the same note, usually an octave apart (bass on
low F, lead on F above middle C.)
Downstage
Toward the front of the stage
Dynamic Contrast Planned volume changes to enhance performance of song
Embellishment
Swipe or other musical addition to song for added interest
Fanny Rails
Rails attached to top riser row
Forward Motion
Sense of lyrical flow, with vocal line moving toward something
in
anticipation, especially in ballads
Hang Ten on
Standing forward to the front edge of the riser
the Risers
Hard Palate
Firm part of the roof of the mouth
Head Voice
Upper range of voice
(Register)
Inside Smile
Lifting of the soft palate
Interval
The distance between two notes
Intro
First part of a song
Key
Letter name of the scale in which a song is written. This note
is blown on the pitch pipe (tonic)
Mask
Facial muscles under the eyes into the temples, around the
nose, in the lip, and from the temples down to the chin
Off the Paper
Being able to sing your part without referring to the music
Overtone
Unsung tone heard above the highest tone of a properly
balanced and matched chord
Patter
Harmony parts singing different words while lead sings melody
Physical
Warming up of body to provide a suitable environment for the
Warm-Ups
singing mechanism to operate
Pickups
Beginnings of phrases sung by only one voice
Pitch Pipe
Cookie-shaped musical instrument used to help singers begin
in the same pitch; electronic pitch pipes also are used. Also,
The Pitch Pipe is the name of the magazine published by
Sweet Adelines International.
Progression
A sequence of chords
Quartet Etiquette Displaying courtesy by not singing along with a foursome
Queens of
Harmony
Ringing Chord
International champion quartet
When a barbershop chord is balanced, overtones are
produced and an exciting "ringing" sound results
Ripple
Choreographed move that starts at one side of the chorus and
travels to the other side (the same principle as a wave)
Soft Palate
Soft, squishy part behind hard palate
Stage Left
The performer's left, when onstage facing the audience
Stage Right
The performer's right, when onstage facing the audience
Stagger Breathing In chorus singing, taking a quick breath in other than a
planned breathing place, usually within a word or by omitting a
word
Swipe
Two or more chords used to embellish a melody note, sung on
one word or syllable
Tag
Last part of a song
Take It From
Start at the beginning of the music, or "take it from the top"
the Edge
Tidley
Tiny swipe done by one part
Traffic Pattern
Designated and carefully timed path followed by choruses and
quartets on competition day
Tuning
Refers to the ability to sing both "in key" and "on pitch"
Upstage
Toward the back of the stage
Unison
Two or more voice parts singing the same note
Vocal Warm-Ups Getting the voice ready to sing
Woodshedding
The art of singing barbershop "by ear," without a written
musical arrangement
Performance Readiness
What does it mean to be ready to perform? How do I go about becoming
performance ready? Who can help me? How long does it take? What kinds of
performances does the chorus do? These and other questions will be answered
in this section.
Learning Music
Chorus members learn their music in many different ways. Although our musical
leaders provide tools and experiences that help us learn, ultimately it is up to
each of us to make the learning happen. Regular attendance is an important
factor in learning our music. It is at chorus rehearsals that our director helps us
learn the interpretation of the new song.
Before a new song is introduced, members are given the sheet music ahead of
time. Some members like to study it or play it on a keyboard. If you do not read
music or do not play an instrument, never fear! Recordings of the song are
usually available, featured with your part predominant.
When it is time to learn a new song - be ready! Carry a pencil with an eraser in
your chorus bag so that you can mark the breathing places and make notes
about dynamics on your sheet music. Bear in mind that the interpretation may
change as the chorus progresses; be flexible...and don't write those marks in ink!
Section rehearsals help our four-part harmony develop. When a song is new,
section leaders often teach individual sections to "sing the part smart" using
techniques particular to the voice part and giving attention to troublesome areas.
After rehearsing two or three weeks on a new song, the director will ask the
chorus members to sing the song into personal recorders. After recording, each
member will give her recording to a section leader or recording checker to review
for notes, words, and correct breaths. This system helps provide individual
coaching to each member, and results in a musical performance we're proud to
present to our audiences.
As a new member, you will have many songs to learn. Be patient with yourself.
All of us understand the dilemma, for we remember going through it, too. Take
advantage of small group sessions, use your recordings and your sheet music,
and realize that it normally takes six months to a year to learn the whole
repertoire. Most people find that concentrating on one song at a time works
better than trying to learn several at once. Ask your section leader or the director
for guidance about which songs to learn first.
Learning to Perform
If you're like most of us, one reason you joined the chorus is because you want to
perform. Performing barbershop harmony requires teamwork. When we sing,
we try to present a musical story to our audiences, involving ourselves
emotionally in the message and delivering it in a unified, coherent way. That
unified approach takes many hours of practice. First, we have to understand the
story as our director has interpreted it. Then, we must communicate it through
our music, facial expressions, and body language. Other aspects that enhance
communication are: costumes, choreography, makeup, staging and scripts.
Learning to perform the music is another reason why regular attendance is
essential. Although individual practice at home is necessary, practicing as a
whole group helps us become a performing unit. Together, we learn the nuances
of emotion embedded in the musical story, we develop the skills to deliver that
musical message, and we experience the "goosebumps" of the ringing chord.
Attendance Guidelines
Although each of us finds it necessary to miss rehearsal now and then,
barbershop music relies heavily on regular attendance. New members often ask,
"What happens if I have to miss a rehearsal before the show, or before a
contest? Will I still be able to perform?" The answer is, "It depends."
First and foremost, you must be performance ready in order to participate in a
show, contest, or community performance. Mastering your music and
choreography, obtaining your costumes, and acquiring chorus make-up comes
only from regular attendance. Songs are often refined and reinterpreted long
after they are first taught. Songs you passed long ago need to be practiced
regularly to remain vibrant.
The chorus standing rules in the Nuts and Bolts section of this handbook contain
additional information about attendance requirements. These rules have been
developed to help us present the very best performances possible.
Costuming
Just as you probably had fun playing "dress-up" as a child, we think you'll enjoy
wearing chorus costumes onstage! Our costumes are designed to present a
visual image that will enhance the musical product. Sometimes they are glitzy,
sparkly gowns that make us feel glamorous. Other times they may be period or
character costumes, or simple, informal outfits that unify our appearance as
chorus members.
The costume chair and her committee will work with you to help you obtain wellfitting costumes. Each member requires a complete chorus wardrobe so that she
is ready to perform in every type of venue. Sometimes the chorus' inventory may
contain the costumes you'll need. Other times, it will be necessary to create a
new costume for you. The committee will provide you with complete instructions
about obtaining your costume, and will provide ready assistance.
Costuming costs are handled in different ways. Sometimes, the chorus treasury
pays part of the expense; other times individual members pay the entire amount.
In either case, the committee strives to create reasonably priced costumes.
Information about new costumes is communicated well in advance of
construction so that members have time to plan for the expense.
Chorus costumes should be worn only for performances, or as directed by the
costume committee.
Following is a listing of our current costumes, including the member's cost: (add
current information)
Makeup
As with costuming, chorus makeup helps us feel glamorous onstage. However,
the real purpose of wearing stage makeup is to allow our faces to carry the
message of the music to the audience. Under bright stage lighting, our own
coloring fades. Faces are pale, eyes and lips disappear. Even our hairstyles
seem to shrink in size.
Barbershop harmony requires us to "sell" the songs, using facial expressions and
body language. If the audience cannot see our facial features, the musical
message is less meaningful. Stage make-up helps us enhance the music.
Our makeup chair and her committee will help you obtain the materials, and will
provide whatever help you need as you learn to apply it. Wait until you see what
fun we have in front of the mirrors at show time!
Following is a list of the makeup supplies and related costs: (add current
information)
Chapter Show
Chapter shows allow us to introduce ourselves to our community once again, and
to sing our songs in a package we've designed especially for the event, complete
with colorful costuming, stage sets, and a script to tie it all together. Shows
require months of planning, and involve the help of many people. As a new
member, show planning is a time when you can help with myriad tasks. We
welcome your assistance and value the chance to get to know you.
Being performance ready for the show means that the music has been mastered,
choreography learned, and all costume and makeup requirements met.
Following is the information about our next show: (add current information)
Regional Convention
Each spring, our chorus participates in a regional convention. If we are
competing in the regional contest, we will sing two songs, an uptune and a
ballad. Many of our rehearsals will be devoted to preparing for this performance.
Performance requirements are the same as for other chorus performances:
mastery of notes, words, breaths, and choreography in each song, with
appropriate costuming and makeup.
You will probably feel as excited about competing as the rest of us; it's great fun!
However, please know that it is a challenging time, particularly for new members
who are working on learning an entire repertoire. If you decide to wait a year
before taking part in the competition, please know that it is okay. Please plan to
go along with us to the convention. We'll be anxious to share the fun with you!
Our next convention will be held (add current information).
International Convention
International convention is held each fall. Choruses are eligible to compete in
international competition a year and a half after winning regional competition.
Regional chorus champions prepare for many months at regular chorus
rehearsals, as well as at weekend retreats. Sometimes extra rehearsals and
coaching sessions are scheduled. Regular attendance at rehearsals helps
members develop stamina, better vocal production skills, and the artistry and
finesse needed for excellent performance. The end result is a product that the
chorus is proud to present to all audiences, not just the contest attendees. In
fact, the most important reason for competition is to hone barbershop skills that
produce better choruses. Performance requirements are again the same.
Some of us attend international convention even when we are not competing, for
its fun-filled educational activities. It also provides another opportunity to learn
from watching other great choruses.
The next international convention will be held (add current information)
Our chorus will/will not be competing at that convention.
Membership Information
As members of a Sweet Adelines International chapter, each of us has
responsibilities to the chorus as a whole. This section describes those
responsibilities.
Membership Requirements
(This section would be an excellent place to include a copy of your
Director/Chorus agreement. If the chorus has specific attendance requirements,
you can add those as well.)
Leave Request
(Describe when and how a member goes about requesting a leave of absence.)