When and where do you rehearse?
We rehearse on Monday evenings 7:00 - 9:00 PM at St Mark’s Lutheran, 3051 Putnam Boulevard Pleasant Hill, CA 94523
How long is your chorale season?
Concert season is typically 17 weeks with concerts in mid-Dec and mid-May. We perform at least two public concerts and occasionally perform for various community organizations.
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. You can wear any combination of slacks, tops, skirts or dresses from your own wardrobe as long as they are black. Seasonal accessories are usually provided by the chorale and typically tied to the concert theme.
Are fees refundable?
Fees are non-refundable, but if you have to drop out during the season, you will automatically become a Supporting Member.
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.
Does the group have practice materials available?
The Chorale uses the internet site and mobile app called Choir Genius, where singers have access to practice recordings provided for each part. Sheet music is provided for all songs
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 are subject to approval by the Music Director to perform in the concert.
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.
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.
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 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.
Do you have an affiliation with the houses of worship where you practice and perform?
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. 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.
