About Joining DWC
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GENERAL INFORMATION
What kind of music does the Chorale sing?
The Chorale sings a range of music in two-, three-, and four-part harmony, with an emphasis on modern American music. Songs are sung a cappella, with piano, and also with a rhythm section or small jazz ensemble, and include solos and small group ensemble opportunities. We perform at least two public concerts each December and May. We also occasionally perform for various community organizations.
Since this is a secular community chorus, do you sing holiday songs? Do you have an affiliation with the houses of worship where you perform?
Our music is selected from the broadest range of compositions and the repertoire often includes holiday music from different faith traditions. Pieces are selected for their musical qualities rather than for any religious message. The Diablo Women’s Chorale has no affiliation with the houses of worship where we rehearse or perform. Locations are selected based on our acoustical and practical requirements, such as budget, audience capacity, and parking.
What is expected of members?
While not professionals, our members are enthusiastic musicians with a great love of music, a devotion to the group, and an enjoyment of the process of learning together. Before you decide to join, please determine that you will be able to commit to the rehearsal and concert attendance as well as plenty of independent practice. Voice part recordings are provided to facilitate learning the music, and the programs are mostly performed “off book.”
Are members expected to volunteer?
Yes. The chorale is a volunteer-based organization. It is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors and members participate by volunteering in various activities such as finance, publicity, marketing, development, concert planning, and fundraising.
AUDITIONS
What is the Diablo Women’s Chorale looking for in singers?
DWC seeks team players who will commit to our high artistic standards and regular rehearsal attendance. Singers must be able to maintain pitch and learn the music in a timely fashion. Some sight-reading ability is preferred, but not required.
How do I prepare for the audition?
Prospective singers are auditioned/interviewed by the Music Director. Singers might be asked to vocalize, sing scales a cappella (without accompaniment), match pitches, and present a prepared piece of your choice; the Membership Chair will advise you on the specifics. Each audition takes approximately ten minutes.
How do I know which part I sing?
During your audition, the Music Director will work with you to determine your vocal range and the part you might sing.
Do members have to re-audition each season?
Continuing members do not have to re-audition. Past members who return after taking a break of more than one season may be asked to re-audition.
When will I know the results of my audition?
Potential members typically are notified within 24 hours, but always before the following rehearsal.
FEES
How much does it cost to sing with the Diablo Women’s Chorale?
Members currently pay $290 per season which covers sheet music, online access to the voice part recordings, and costume accessories, in addition to supporting rehearsal space and personnel costs. They are non-refundable. The amount is subject to change based on expenses and fundraising efforts. Payment plans are available, and the chorale has a needs-based assistance program.
LEARNING THE MUSIC
Does the group have practice materials available?
The Chorale uses the internet site and app Choir Genius, where singers have access to practice recordings provided for each part.
Do I need to practice outside of the weekly rehearsals?
We perform "off-book" at our concerts, and the Music Director establishes the “memorize by” schedule for each song. While there is no specific requirement, each singer is expected to spend time each week rehearsing on their own, as needed.
What if I need extra help learning the music?
In addition to the Monday night rehearsals, 2 to 4 sectional rehearsals are held each season, led by each voice part Section Leader. These are held at a member’s home on an agreed-upon date. These outside sectionals help singers master pitches, timing, and rhythms. In addition, casual practices are held weekly at members’ homes.
REHEARSALS
What happens at a rehearsal?
Singers are expected to be in their places at 7:00 pm. The Music Director leads us in physical and vocal warm-ups to prepare us for singing. The Music Director selects music for the evening’s rehearsal from our season’s repertoire, generally according to a schedule provided at the beginning of the season. There is a 5- to 10-minute break during the rehearsal.
What is the rehearsal attendance policy?
Members are expected to attend all rehearsals. We understand that illness or obligations will occasionally conflict, causing a member to be absent. More than three absences in a season is considered excessive. More than four absences is subject to approval by the Music Director.
How long is the rehearsal season?
Rehearsals begin in mid-August for the fall season and mid-January for the spring season. Seasons conclude following the concerts.
PERFORMANCES
Do I need to buy a performance costume?
The basic concert attire consists of "performance black," the particulars of which change from time to time. Seasonal accessories are usually provided by the chorale.
When are the concerts held?
Fall concerts are held in early to mid-December. Spring concerts are held in mid-to-late May or early June.
Are there dress rehearsals?
Dress/technical rehearsals are typically held in the week preceding the performance, often as the last scheduled rehearsal of the season. Singers are required to wear their concert attire.
Are there solo/small group opportunities?
Yes. These opportunities vary widely depending on the program. Some will be auditioned, and some will be assigned.
What other musical activities are available to the Diablo Women’s Chorale members?
There are opportunities for optional community outreach performances. In addition, non-auditioned workshop programs are offered in the summer and are open to the public.