Got Questions? Here are a number of frequently asked questions that we get:
Do I have to be a great singer?
Most of our members are not soloists. Because Barbershop music is sung without instrumental accompaniment, voices in the four parts must blend together to produce ringing chords. The main requirement for barbershop singing, is a voice that can carry a tune, stay on pitch or key and blend with other singers. Memorization is our eventual goal.
How do I learn the songs?
Music and learning CDs are distributed to members. Learning tracks can also be downloaded from our members' only website as mp3 files. Many of our members do not read music. They learn their parts by singing along with the learning tracks. Others prefer to "plunk" their part on a keyboard. When learning new songs, the sections practice in small groups to make sure that the notes are learned correctly and to develop a unit sound in the section.
What is the audition procedure?
A prospective member may typically start the audition process after attending three rehearsals. During the audition, you will sing your part with the other three parts. The director and your section leader will listen to you sing in this quartet. The audition will be conducted away from the rest of the chorus.
How much personal time will it take?
In addition to weekly rehearsals, we participate in a Sweet Adelines regional competition held in the spring of each year. We perform in and around our area for local festivals, business, social, charitable events, and retirement homes. The chorus usually has many performances during the Christmas season from Thanksgiving until about the 20th of December. A couple of times per year there may be extra rehearsals or coaching sessions. Fundraisers are undertaken as needed.
What is the cost?
If you decide to become a member after having passed your audition, monthly dues of $40 plus a one-time fee of $125 will be expected. As in most worthwhile hobbies, there are also other expenses, such as travel, meals, make-up and fun costumes.
Do I have to be a great singer?
Most of our members are not soloists. Because Barbershop music is sung without instrumental accompaniment, voices in the four parts must blend together to produce ringing chords. The main requirement for barbershop singing, is a voice that can carry a tune, stay on pitch or key and blend with other singers. Memorization is our eventual goal.
How do I learn the songs?
Music and learning CDs are distributed to members. Learning tracks can also be downloaded from our members' only website as mp3 files. Many of our members do not read music. They learn their parts by singing along with the learning tracks. Others prefer to "plunk" their part on a keyboard. When learning new songs, the sections practice in small groups to make sure that the notes are learned correctly and to develop a unit sound in the section.
What is the audition procedure?
A prospective member may typically start the audition process after attending three rehearsals. During the audition, you will sing your part with the other three parts. The director and your section leader will listen to you sing in this quartet. The audition will be conducted away from the rest of the chorus.
How much personal time will it take?
In addition to weekly rehearsals, we participate in a Sweet Adelines regional competition held in the spring of each year. We perform in and around our area for local festivals, business, social, charitable events, and retirement homes. The chorus usually has many performances during the Christmas season from Thanksgiving until about the 20th of December. A couple of times per year there may be extra rehearsals or coaching sessions. Fundraisers are undertaken as needed.
What is the cost?
If you decide to become a member after having passed your audition, monthly dues of $40 plus a one-time fee of $125 will be expected. As in most worthwhile hobbies, there are also other expenses, such as travel, meals, make-up and fun costumes.
