MUST READ TO CONTINUE* Chorister Handbook 16-17

Chorister Handbook 2016-2017

SDCC Handbook 2016-17

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION & MISSION STATEMENT Page 3

CHOIR OFFICE HOURS & LOCATION Page 4

STAFF DIRECTORY Page 4

CHOIR GOALS Page 4

CHOIR LEVELS Pages 4 - 6

PROMOTION Page 6

MEMBERSHIP Page 6

LEAVE OF ABSENCE & RESIGNATION Page 6

TUITION POLICIES AND FEES Pages 6 - 8

FUNDING SOURCES Page 8

PARENTS ASSOCIATION Page 8 - 9

CHAPERONING Page 9

TOUR FUNDRAISING & TOUR ACCOUNTS Page 9

PARENT/GUARDIAN RESPONSIBILITIES Pages 9 - 10

COMMUNICATIONS AND GROUPANIZER Page 10

PERFORMANCE ATTIRE Pages 10 - 11

Parents AND Concert and Chamber Choristers are to read the following sections

ATTENDANCE & ABSENCE REPORTING Pages 11 - 13

PERFORMANCE ATTENDANCE Page 13

PERFORMANCE CODE OF CONDUCT & PROCEDURES Pages 13 - 14

Parents AND Intermediate, Concert and Chamber Choristers are to read the following sections

CHORISTER RESPONSIBILITIES Pages 14 – 15

CHORISTERS AS AUDIENCE ETIQUETTE Page 15 - 16

HOME PRACTICE Page 16

CONCLUSION Page 16


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INTRODUCTION

Welcome to the San Diego Children’s Choir! This handbook will provide you with information about the Choir, its structure, and current policies. Please read it carefully. In this handbook you will find guidelines about rehearsals, performances, scheduling, and choir activities. If you have questions, please contact the Choir Office at 858.587.1087 or email [email protected]. Founded in 1990, the San Diego Children’s Choir (SDCC) is dedicated to providing San Diego County children and youth with the opportunity for artistic and personal growth through choral music performance. Choir programs are divided into two categories, auditioned and non-auditioned. The youngest members of the Choir begin their choral journey in the non-auditioned training program, which consists of Early Years 1 for ages 4-5, Introductory Choir for ages 6-7 and Preparatory Choir for grades 1-3. Auditioned choirs consist of Intermediate Choir for grades 3-6, Boys Concert Choir from grades 6 through the voice change, Girls Concert Choir for grades 6-9 and Chamber Choir for grades 10-12. Additional non-auditioned outreach programs are offered to the community through site-based elementary school choir programs and a middle/high school choir called Youth Choir. The SDCC prepares and performs a wide cross-section of repertoire. Music is drawn from all periods of history, representing many styles – from medieval to modern, classical to folk and gospel – to enhance the musical growth of the choristers. By nurturing the musical sensitivity of each chorister and developing the self-discipline needed in the practice of this performing art, the Choir provides an intense training ground for professional musicians. The Choir has a very active performance schedule, which includes professional appearances with the San Diego Symphony, the San Diego Master Chorale, and the San Diego Civic Organist at the Organ Pavilion in Balboa Park. SDCC encourages the active participation of its choristers and choirs in a wide variety of civic and charitable events. Concert and Chamber choristers also have opportunities for regional, national, and international touring. Past excursions have included tours to New Orleans, Quebec, Italy, France, Germany, England, Australia, and a choral cruise to Alaska. Our choirs also participate in international festivals such as the Ludlow Music Festival (England), Pacific Rim Festival (Hawaii) and the Golden Gate International Children's Choral Festival.

MISSION STATEMENT

The San Diego Children’s Choir provides children with choral music education and performance opportunities that foster performance excellence and collaboration at the highest artistic level, nurturing individual development and creating a foundation for lifelong success. The Choir enriches the cultural fabric of San Diego County through the transformative power of music.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

The San Diego Children's Choir is a non-profit organization, overseen by an independent volunteer board of directors and the executive director that governs the San Diego Children’s Choir and oversees its management.


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OFFICE HOURS & LOCATION Choir Office (Mission Valley) 123 Camino De La Reina, Suite 202 South San Diego, CA 92108 sdcchoir.org • 858.587.1087 Office hours are Monday–Wednesday and Friday 8:00am-4:30pm, and Thursday 9:00am-5:00pm. If you would like to drop by, please call first to be sure someone will be in the office as hours can fluctuate. The office is closed during rehearsals unless an office staff member is present.

STAFF DIRECTORY

GOALS SDCC’s goals for all choirs are to enable its members to:

Express themselves through a high standard of choral performance and artistic communication

Develop individual vocal, musical, aural and analytical skills, and benefit from age-appropriate training of the maturing voice as part of a comprehensive choral music education

Develop an appreciation for classical and traditional music from the world's cultures

Develop understanding and respect for others from different racial, religious and ethnic backgrounds

Develop responsibility, self-confidence and a love for singing

Understand the importance of his or her individual contribution to the success of the group

Participate in a program that is an exemplary model for a community-based arts organization

CHOIR LEVELS Training Choir Programs (non-auditioned)

Early Years (Ages 4-5) Early Years introduces children to purposeful play and interactive music making, instilling music appreciation in children early on. Each session incorporates music paired with games, singing, dancing, and rhythm instruments.

Carrie Musick Cottriall Executive Director

[email protected] 858.587.1087 x104

Kelsey Young Operations Assistant


Margie Orem Music Director

Early Years, Preparatory and Intermediate Choirs

[email protected]

Michele Tondreau Operations Manager


Ruthie Millgard Music Director

Intermediate, Girls Concert and Chamber Choirs



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Introductory Choir (Ages 6-7)

Introductory Choir introduces children to the beginnings of music reading with games and rhythm instruments. Children are eased into choral performance by learning several short songs over the length of the course to be performed for parents and family in the final class.

Preparatory Choir (Grades 1-3)

This beginning choir introduces basic vocal technique skills, music reading, rhythmic skills, solfege and musical concepts (melody, rhythm, form/structure). The Preparatory Choir performs with the other choirs for the SDCC Winter and Spring concerts, as well as independently, including appearances at community events. Learning to focus listening skills, develop self-confidence, and work as a team is part of this training experience.

Auditioned Choir Levels

Intermediate Choir (Grades 3-6)

Intermediate level choristers must be able to match pitch, be competent readers and be sufficiently socially developed to function comfortably in group activities. This choir focuses on basic posture, breathing and vocal technique, developing a greater degree of musical independence through part-singing, and the continued development of sight-singing/solfege and aural skills. Choristers learn to read music and work in 2-3 voice parts, strengthening vocal independence. Intermediate Choir primarily performs locally, but members also participate in a one-day mini-tour each spring. Previous mini-tours include San Juan Capistrano and a live performance on San Diego television station, KUSI.

Girls Concert Choir and Boys Concert Choir (Grades 6-9)

Girls and Boys Concert Choirs are SDCC’s premiere treble choirs. Choristers at this level are expected to sing independently in three parts, display solid vocal technique and a healthy vocal tone, and use advanced solfege skills. Choristers will comfortably read musical scores in three or four vocal parts and perform music successfully in a variety of languages and styles. Advanced sight singing and aural skills, an understanding and analysis of the choral score, a secure sense of vocal independence and adaptability as a performer are emphasized. Concert Choir members may join summer national or international tour. Participants in Boys Concert Choir are coached through navigating the changing voice. All Concert choristers are required to attend an overnight retreat at the start of the fall semester.

Chamber Choir (Girls grades 10 - 12, Boys with changed voices)

Chamber Choir provides an opportunity for choristers to sing through their remaining high school years with the SDCC and explore mixed-voice repertoire. Choristers at this level are expected to exhibit advanced musical independence and be able to sing mixed-voice choral works with confidence. Emphasis is placed on advanced choral score reading skills, as well as analytical skills in identifying melodic, tonal and harmonic relationships, significant structural elements, and details of the choral score. Each chorister’s role in individual preparation for the rehearsal and performance becomes more important, as the Choir develops leadership skills in these senior high choristers. Chamber Choir members participate both in local performances and may also participate in the summer national or


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international tours. Chamber choristers are required to attend an overnight retreat at the start of the fall semester.

PROMOTION Promotions to higher-level choirs, although influenced by age and grade, are ultimately dependent upon musicianship, vocal development, attendance and social maturity. The music director makes the decision to promote a chorister to a particular choir. Promotion to Concert and Chamber Choirs require an audition with the music director and will also include passing a music literacy exam with 80% accuracy.

MEMBERSHIP Enrollment in SDCC is a yearlong commitment (September-June). All choristers are expected to be active members for the entire year, and to participate in all scheduled rehearsals and performances. Annual online registration forms must be submitted to keep records current.

LEAVE OF ABSENCE Under special circumstances, choristers may arrange an up to one-year leave of absence with the music director. A letter/email must be submitted to the music director regarding the necessity of the absence. After a leave of absence, choristers will be eligible to rejoin at the beginning of the next full semester.

Tuition will not be refunded in the case of leave of absence. If taking a leave of absence, the chorister may not be able to go on tour (Intermediate, Concert and Chamber Choirs) and may be asked to make an appointment for a voice placement evaluation upon returning.

RESIGNATION Withdrawn status is for those choristers who will not be returning to the Choir. SDCC makes a yearlong commitment to its choristers in terms of programming, staffing and other services. In return, SDCC expects each chorister to make a yearlong commitment to the Choir. If some highly unusual circumstance impedes a chorister’s fulfillment of that commitment during the course of the year, the chorister and parents must arrange for a personal conference with the music director prior to submitting a letter of resignation. Parents should note that they are responsible for the entire tuition cost for the semester, even if the Chorister resigns. Refer to the following Tuition and Fees section for more information.

TUITION AND FEES / PAYMENT POLICIES SEASON REHEARSAL SCHEDULE Fall Semester: Concert & Chamber begins August 26, 2016 / Preparatory & Intermediate begins September 4, 2016. Fall semester ends December 3, 2016 Spring Semester: January 22 - June 5, 2017

The first tuition payment for the fall semester is due by September 1, 2016. Full tuition payments made by August 1,

2016 will receive an early payment discount of $40 off. Refer to the table below for tuition rates and payment plan


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options. Payments may be made online or by check or cash. A $25 late fee will be applied to payments made after the

deadline. Tuition, registration fees, & installment fees are non-refundable.

TUITION & FEES

CHOIR LEVEL GRADES TUITION RATES & PAYMENT OPTIONS

Preparatory (1 hour/week)

1 - 3

$605.00 per year, OR:

$315.00 per semester (2 payments)*

$113.50 per month (6 automatic monthly payments)*

Intermediate (1.5 hours/week)

3 - 6 $810.00 per year, OR:


$147.50 per month (6 automatic monthly payments)*

Boys or Girls Concert (2 hours/week)

6 - 9 $975.00 per year, OR:

$500.00 per semester (2 payments)* launch

$175.00 per month (6 automatic monthly payments)* $95.00 Fall Retreat: Mandatory overnight retreat to begin the Fall semester.

Chamber (formerly Youth) (2 hours/week)

10 - 12 $975.00 per year, OR:


$175.00 per month (6 automatic monthly payments)* $95.00 Fall Retreat: Mandatory overnight retreat to begin the Fall semester.

Special Discounts Early payment discount: $40 off full payment received before August 1, 2016. Sibling rate: $25 off each sibling after the first enrolled.

Registration Fee: An additional non-refundable fee of $45 is due at the time of registration every year a chorister registers for SDCC. Fall Retreat Fee: An additional Fall Retreat fee of $95 is due at the time of registration for Concert and Chamber Choirs. Installment Plans & Schedule: Semester/monthly payment plans include a $12.50 per transaction processing fee. Note: A history of delinquent payments will result in the loss of using the installment payment plan option.

*Semester Payment Plans are divided into 2 payments and are due 9/1/16 and 1/1/17. The spring semester invoice will be emailed.

*Monthly Payment Plans are divided into 6 payments, due on the 1st of each month (9/1/16, 10/1/16, 11/1/16, 1/1/17, 2/1/17, 3/1/17). Selecting this option requires authorization to set up automatic payments.

Online Tuition Payment: Tuition may be paid via PayPal at www.sdcchoir.org/tuition-payments. Check or Cash Payments: Please include the following information for check or cash payments:

1. The reason for the payment (in memo section of check), i.e. "September tuition" or "uniform" 2. The chorister’s name, including the last/family name, if different from that of the remitter. 3. The chorister's Choir level.

Late Payment Fees A $25 late fee will be applied to tuition or tour payments not received within 10 calendar days of the due date. Checks returned for non-sufficient fund with incur a $25 penalty. The amount overdue must be remitted within twenty-one calendar days of the due date, or the chorister will be suspended from the choir until payment is made. The SDCC makes


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many financial and contractual commitments annually at the beginning of the choir year, and late payment negatively affects our operations. Late Pick-Up Fee

Unexpected problems can delay pickup and dismissal, which is why we build in a fifteen-minute pick-up window at the

end of each rehearsal or event. After fifteen minutes, however, not only is the chorister kept waiting, but SDCC staff

member(s) also stay late to ensure your child’s safety. Should late pick-up occur, a fee of $10 fee will be assessed for

every additional fifteen minutes tardy.

Lost/Damaged Music Fee Printed music is costly and time consuming to replace music, some of which may now be out of print or priced higher than when originally purchased. In addition, many publishers have minimum order requirements making it impossible to order one or two copies. Furthermore, postage/handling costs must be paid. Be aware, therefore, that the price you see on the music is not the full replacement cost. A $15 fee will be charged to replace an entire folder’s worth of lost or damaged music, $3 per individual piece. To avoid the hassle, take good care of your music.

Scholarships The San Diego Children's Choir Scholarship Fund provides financial support to young singers and their families for the

purpose of helping these young musicians participate in choir activities that might not be an option due to financial

circumstances.

Scholarships are need-based and are funded partly through our annual appeal, fundraising events, grants and private

donations. As requests for scholarships greatly exceed our resources, parents must meet all filing requirements and

deadlines for consideration. For more information, please contact the Choir Office.

Withdrawal & Refund Policy

Tuition, registration fees, installment fees, and tour payments are non-refundable. Withdrawal from the Choir does not result in a refund, nor will it excuse payment obligations of monthly or semester payment plans.

FUNDING SOURCES

Tuition covers 40 percent of the cost of training each chorister. Additional funds are raised through public support, ticket sales and contracted performances. The Choir also receives funding from San Diego businesses and corporations, foundations, the City of San Diego’s Commission for Arts and Culture, and the County of San Diego. To make a 100% tax-deductible donation, please visit sdcchoir.org/support-us or call 858-587-1087.

PARENTS ASSOCIATION The Parents Association is parent driven, and every parent is automatically a member of the Parents Association. Parent

volunteers are essential to the success of the choir and all parents are expected to contribute 10 volunteer hours per

year. The purpose of the Parents’ Association is to:

a. Accompany the Choir as chaperones at performances, events, camps, and tours.

b. Facilitate communication to parents from the Choir regarding policies, activities and plans.


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c. Provide tour account fundraising opportunities for members of the Choir.

d. Coordinate the Choir’s social activities.

e. Provide a structured mechanism for parents to offer suggestions and/or recommendations for the Choir, staff,

or direction of the Choir. The Parents Association President and Treasurer are members of SDCC’s board of directors and report regularly to the board. Any parent interested in taking a leadership role should contact the Parents Association President at [email protected].

CHAPERONING Chaperones are an important part of the San Diego Children’s Choir team, and work with and accompany the Choir at local performances and events, camps and tours. SDCC Chaperones are selected for a variety of specific skills, but they share a deep commitment to the choristers in their charge. Their primary concern at all times is to create a positive, supportive, and safe performance environment. SDCC Chaperones agree to be part of a volunteer chaperone pool for the entire choir year. In order to qualify to become a Chaperone, parents must attend one orientation & training seminar at the beginning of either the Fall and/or Spring semesters. During the training seminars, chaperones familiarize themselves with chaperone tasks and select areas of expertise.

TOUR FUNDRAISING AND TOUR ACCOUNTS

The Choir’s Parents Association provides fundraising opportunities for choristers to earn money for going on tour. Choristers may start raising money as soon as they join the Choir, even though they may not go on tour until they reach an advanced level. All money raised by a chorister participating in an upcoming tour is held by the Parents Association and will automatically be deducted from individual tour payments. Money earned by a chorister is only for use by that particular child or their sibling; it is not transferable to any other chorister. Many times, the entire payment for a summer tour will be due by early spring; only money already raised by that deadline may be applied to that particular tour. Money raised after the payment deadline will be held in the chorister’s fund for future tours. If a chorister withdraws or graduates from the Choir, all money in the individual’s tour account will automatically go into the Parents Association’s General Fund, which is used where needed most. The Parents Association also raises money throughout the year to lower the cost of tour for student participants. This money has also been used in the past to pay for tour scholarships, to provide buses to transport choristers, and to help pay for unexpected tour costs.

PARENT / GUARDIAN RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Thoroughly read and adhere to the procedures in the Chorister Handbook.

2. Choristers must arrive to rehearsal at least 5 minutes early, and to performances at least 15 minutes early.

Prompt arrival is essential for the Choir’s success. Transportation arrangements are chorister parent’s

responsibility. A list of other choristers in your area is available on Groupanizer.

3. Choristers must be picked up promptly at the conclusion of rehearsals. See the Tuition and Fees section for

information on a Late Pick-up Fee.

4. Preparatory, Intermediate and Concert choristers must not be left alone at rehearsal sites more than 15 minutes

before their rehearsal begins or without an SDCC staff member or music director present.

mailto:[email protected]


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5. Parents are welcome to observe weekly rehearsals quietly from the back of the room. Please keep in mind that

talking or moving around during rehearsal is distracting to choristers. Parent interaction with chorister during

rehearsal is discouraged. Please do not use staff work stations, computers, desks or belongings.

6. There are many opportunities to attend Choir performances throughout the year and ticket information will be

sent home regarding these concerts. Unfortunately, parents are not allowed to attend certain performances due

to event or venue restrictions. Parents wishing to be present for these performances are encouraged to join as

chaperones. See the Chaperoning section for more information. Performance details will be noted on the call

sheet. Parents will not be permitted to attend private performances.

7. Choristers will bring home call sheets or handouts for upcoming performances, and updates on rehearsals or

other Choir activities. Please review the material in your child’s music folder after each rehearsal.

8. Music directors oversee the musical aspects of the choir and collaborate on aspects of chorister learning and

general programming. Individual problems and concerns of parents or choristers should be discussed with the

appropriate music director by emailing or speaking with them before or after rehearsal.

9. No photography, audio or video recordings are permitted at rehearsals or performances unless otherwise

noted. Recording of musical or theatrical performances is in violation of copyright laws unless appropriate

licensing and permissions have been obtained. The Choir will provide a designated photographer at each event,

when possible, and will post pictures on the Choir's website for download and print. Violations of this policy may

result in the removal of the violator from the rehearsal or performance in question, confiscation of camera or

recording device, dismissal of your chorister from the Choir, and/or liability for any copyright infringement

claims or actions.

COMMUNICATIONS & GROUPANIZER SDCC attempts to keep parents well informed of choir activities in a clear and timely manner. To better communicate with parents and manage chorister information, SDCC utilizes Groupanizer, an online chorister management and communication system. Each parent and Chamber chorister is provided a unique log in name and password. All communication to and from the Choir will be primarily through Groupanizer (e.g. attendance tracking, rehearsal and performance calendars, important documents, etc). Through Groupanizer, a weekly email bulletin will be sent every Monday and will be archived in Groupanizer. Any changes in the chorister's enrollment status should be logged on Groupanizer.

PERFORMANCE ATTIRE As much as the Choir’s sound is important, so is the Choir's appearance. A well-groomed, neatly uniformed choir is essential for a professional and artistic experience. Good personal hygiene is a must for all choristers. Adherence to uniform guidelines is required, including ensuring all uniforms are neatly pressed.

Any Chorister who fails to dress or groom properly for a performance may not be permitted to participate.

Hair and Jewelry

Hair must be neatly brushed and fastened away from the face so that eyes and eyebrows are visible (for the purpose of displaying facial expression) with natural colored barrettes or elastics.


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No bows, ribbons, scrunchies, headbands, or colored barrettes or colored elastics.

Hair color must be natural in color. Any portions of dyed hair must be concealed.

No excessive jewelry will be allowed. Only understated, small earrings, rings will be allowed. Jewelry that cannot be removed must be concealed.

No bracelets or necklaces unless part of the uniform. Please consult a chaperone or someone in the Choir Office and he or she will advise you on the appropriateness of a chorister's jewelry, hair, or accessories. Make-up and Nail Polish

No colored nail polish. Clear, nude, or French manicure is acceptable.

Preparatory and Intermediate Choristers are not permitted to wear any make-up or cosmetics.

Tasteful, natural-looking make-up is permitted for Concert and Chamber choristers.

No temporary tattoos on areas of the body that cannot be easily covered (such as hands and arms). Permanent tattoos must also be covered.

Uniforms Each choir level has its own specific formal concert uniform detailed in each choir's uniform description sheet, including purchase information. Uniform description sheets can be found at sdcchoir.org/choir-uniforms. All choir levels have the same casual uniform. The yellow call sheets for each performance will indicate which uniform is to be worn.

Uniform Care

Call sheets provide instructions about uniform requirements for each performance or workshop. It is recommended choristers try on a uniform a week before a performance to allow time for adjustments to be made, including new uniform purchases.

Shoes

Detailed shoe requirements for each choir level are outlined in uniform description sheets. General shoe requirements include:

Boys – All Levels Black, lace-up or Velcro dress shoes (no athletic shoes or shiny leather). Rubber soled shoes preferable. Preparatory and Intermediate Girls Plain, flat black, Mary Jane style dress shoes with the strap higher up on the foot (above the bridge). No patterns, designs, colors, bows, buckles, patent leather, high heels or platform shoes. Rubber soled shoes preferable. Concert and Chamber Girls Refer to uniform guidelines for specific shoe style and purchasing information.

ATTENDANCE

Membership in the Choir is a commitment to faithful, consistent and punctual attendance in order to develop musical skills, learn repertoire, and benefit from and contribute to the ensemble. It is expected that every rehearsal take a high


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priority in each chorister's life. Choristers are expected to attend all rehearsals. This includes special rehearsals and final rehearsals prior to a scheduled performance. Attendance will be taken at each rehearsal. No more than three absences per semester for Preparatory, Intermediate and Concert Choir, and no more than two absences for Chamber Choir of any type, excused or unexcused, pre-arranged or emergency, are permitted in a given semester. Any more than the allotted absences will trigger a conference between the chorister, his/her parents, and the music director. Lack of rehearsal preparation puts the Choir at risk of compromising the hard work of all the other singers. Poor rehearsal attendance may, at the music director’s discretion, result in:

Not being able to perform

Provisional membership

Dismissal from the Choir Exceptions may be made only in extreme circumstances. Once good attendance habits have been re-established, the singer may earn the privilege of participating in subsequent performances.

Late Arrivals Rehearsal start-time is when rehearsal starts. By rehearsal start time, all choristers are expected to have signed in, are in correct standing/sitting positions, have used the restroom, and have their music and a pencil. To ensure starting rehearsal on time, choristers are expected to arrive to the rehearsal location at least 5 minutes early. Choristers must arrive 15 minutes early to all performances.

Mandatory Rehearsals All final or “dress” rehearsals are mandatory. If a chorister is absent from the final rehearsal without the prior approval of the music director, the chorister will be unable to participate in the associated performance. These choristers should therefore not arrive at that concert with an expectation of performing.

Tardiness/Early Dismissal In the interest of child safety, a written note is necessary for late admittance to or early dismissal from a rehearsal. Parents must submit a written excuse for each tardy or early dismissal. Please note that if a chorister is tardy in excess of 20 minutes or more to a specific rehearsal, that rehearsal must be made up, since a major portion of the learning will have been missed.

Absence Reporting

Excused absences from rehearsals include: illness, scheduling conflicts with significant family, school, community service or religious responsibilities. To be excused from a rehearsal, the chorister’s parent or guardian may call the Choir Office at 858-587-1087 or email [email protected]. Concert and Chamber Choristers are expected to email their music director directly.

Illnesses Choristers should stay at home if he or she has a significant or severe cold, flu, or other contagious illness. Follow the


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absence reporting instructions above. Singers may return to rehearsal when they are feeling better, have been fever-free for at least 24 hours, and are attending school again. If choristers have minor symptoms, such as a slightly runny nose, cough or sore throat, they are expected to come to rehearsal, but may be asked to sit off to the side rather than in close proximity to other choristers.

PERFORMANCE ATTENDANCE When a chorister is absent from a concert, not only does that chorister miss out on a wonderful experience, the rest of the choir is also negatively affected. This is especially true of Concert and Chamber Choirs. Attendance at all dress rehearsals and performances is mandatory for all students. Performances are the culmination of an entire semester’s hard work. Choir members may be excused from a performance only for illness, significant religious events, or major school events (e.g. graduation, SATs/ACTs, etc.), and important family events. Performances are scheduled months in advance and most conflicts can be rescheduled. Studying, doctor's appointment, and other extracurricular activities should be scheduled to accommodate the performance. Choristers, especially those in Concert and Chamber Choirs, should also plan ahead to maintain their physical and vocal health for upcoming performances. If a conflict prevents the chorister from attending a performance, please inform the music director and/or SDCC staff as soon as possible so appropriate adjustments can be made. The music director will evaluate performance absences on a case-by-case basis, and in more serious circumstances, may result in the chorister’s suspension and/or expulsion.

PERFORMANCE CODE OF CONDUCT AND PROCEDURES

The San Diego Children’s Choir performs in a wide variety of venues, many of which are high profile appearances. The Choir has a respected reputation for discipline and professionalism. Prior to each scheduled performance, choristers receive a “Call Sheet” with necessary concert information sheet. These call sheets provide detailed information about location, time, uniform requirements, pick-up and drop off procedures, and other important items. Please check your chorister’s folder regularly for the appearance of call sheets and read each carefully. In addition:

1. Always eat a nutritious meal, drink lots of water, and get plenty of rest before a concert. Choristers may not

bring any food, drink, candy, or gum to dress rehearsals or performances. If sealed water bottles are allowed,

this will be specified on the call sheet.

2. Bring as few personal items (purses, backpacks, etc.) to the performance venue as possible, and make them as

small as possible. Do not bring valuables, including jewelry or items of sentimental value. The Choir will not be

responsible for lost or stolen items. Reading materials such as books may, however, be useful when having to

wait in non-public backstage areas between rehearsal periods or performances.

3. Use of electronic devices is not permitted at rehearsals or performances unless indicated on the call sheet. Cell

phones must be turned off and left in the chorister’s bag – or with a parent - during rehearsals and

performances, not in the chorister’s pocket. If a chorister is seen using his/her cell phone during a rehearsal or

performance, the phone may be confiscated until the end of the rehearsal or performance. When choristers are

taking a break from rehearsing or waiting to perform, it is expected that they will be focused on choir activities.

Concert and Chamber Choristers – The Choir recognizes the increasing need for older choristers to use

electronic devices such as laptops and tablets. Concert and Chamber choristers are permitted to bring these


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items to extended rehearsals or performances only when there is time allotted for homework or reading, which

will be indicated on the call sheet. The Choir will not be responsible for lost or stolen items. Inappropriate use of

electronic devices may result in confiscation of the device.

4. Arrive 15 minutes before the performance call time. Parents/guardians are required to drop off choristers at the

location specified on the call sheet. Upon arrival, choristers must sign in with a chaperone. Late arrivals without

the prior permission of the music director may result in not being able to participate in the performance; the

decision will be made on a case-by-case basis by the music director.

5. Always arrive in proper performance attire as listed on the call sheet, and as detailed on the uniform description

sheet. Choristers who are not in complete performance attire will not be allowed to sing. The music director or

staff representative will make all final decisions about dress code questions.

6. Professional conduct is required at all times. Follow the directions of the music director and chaperones. Wait

quietly in your designated area when your choir is not warming up or performing. Choristers who leave their

designated area without a chaperone may not be allowed to perform, and may be dismissed or suspended from

the Choir. Preparatory and Intermediate choristers may not use restrooms unless accompanied by a chaperone.

Excessive talking or other breeches of performance conduct will be handled by the music director and may

result in dismissal from the performance.

7. It is expected all choristers know their music well. If the music director determines that the chorister does not

know the music at the final rehearsal, the chorister will not be allowed to sing in the associated performance.

8. In an emergency situation, follow the instructions of the music director or designated chaperones. Choristers are

to stay with their choir group until the situation has been resolved.

9. Parents must sign-in and sign-out choristers with chaperones at performances, unless otherwise indicated.

This rule applies to all choristers, except Chamber Choir, who generally are permitted to sign in and out

independently, excluding select events. Pick-up procedures will be specified on each event’s call sheet. Parents

may designate an alternate person for release of their Chorister, but must notify a chaperone when they sign in

their chorister.

10. If a chorister feels ill, a chaperone or music director should be informed immediately. If this occurs during a

performance, the chorister should quietly sit down, and wait to be assisted by a chaperone or music director.

CHORISTER RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Arrive 5 minutes before the designated rehearsal time to sign-in, use the restroom and find a seat before

rehearsal start time.

2. No food, gum, candy or drinks (excluding water) are allowed during rehearsal. Please eat before or after

rehearsal, though choristers are encouraged to bring sealed water bottles.

3. Bring music folder with all music and a pencil to every rehearsal.


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4. Care for choir music appropriately. Keep music in folder when not in use, only make markings in pencil and avoid

getting music wet or crumpled. Chorister folders containing all music must be returned at the end of each

semester in good condition to avoid incurring a fine.

5. Cell phones and other electronic devices must be turned off prior to the beginning of rehearsal. If found using a

cell phone during rehearsal, the device may be confiscated by the music director for the remainder of rehearsal,

to be returned to the chorister’s parent.

6. If a sore throat prevents choristers from singing during rehearsal, attending and listening is still beneficial. These

choristers should arrive early and inform the music director of this decision. Concert and Chamber choristers not singing because of sickness will be asked to fill out a Sick Bay form and submit to the music director at the end of rehearsal.

7. Choristers are responsible for obtaining and learning any music covered when absent. Please call another

chorister, not the office. It is the chorister’s responsibility to catch up on music from a missed rehearsal, and for

asking the music director for handouts or other items.

8. Choristers are expected to be neatly groomed and in correct uniforms for all dress rehearsals and performances.

For clarification and specifics on the uniform policy, please refer to the uniform description sheet. If choristers

are in incomplete uniform, they may be unable to perform.

9. SDCC staff and choristers are guests in most performance and rehearsal locations, please stay in the designated

rehearsal areas and respect use of the space. The site should be left in the same condition as when choristers

arrived. All trash should be appropriately disposed of.

10. Choristers are responsible for giving their parent(s) any handouts that distributed at rehearsals.

11. Choristers are expected to listen attentively to the music director and participate fully in rehearsal activities.

12. Chamber Choristers are expected to provide an email address to the music director, and to check regularly

(several times weekly) for email updates regarding homework or rehearsal/performance details.

13. One of the goals of the SDCC is to foster and encourage the development of leadership skills in its choristers.

Members of the San Diego Children's Choir are strongly encouraged to become leaders in their respective school

music and fine, creative or performing arts programs. If school music programs are successful, we are all

successful!

Failure to observe the above expectations will result in the music director contacting parents. Persistent problems may

result in suspension or dismissal from the Choir.

CHORISTERS AS AUDIENCE ETIQUETTE

It is important for SDCC Choristers to learn about concert hall etiquette, as audience members and not just performers. To nurture appropriate audience etiquette, please observe the following guidelines:

Audience response in the form of applause is a generally accepted practice in formal concert venues. Applaud when the conductor/director has lowered his or her hands.


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Whistling, shouting and yelling are inappropriate reactions in formal concert settings. Vocal reactions by the audience during up-beat Jazz or Gospel pieces, however is often appropriate and appreciated. Choristers can watch the behavior of the music director to know how to behave.

Most concert halls have a strict no food or drink policy in the audience section. Choristers are to refrain from eating or drinking unless given permission by chaperones or music directors.

Electronic devices should be turned off during a concert. Not only is it disrespectful to those performing, but it can be very distracting to other audience members. Any electronic devices being used will be confiscated by chaperones or music directors, to be returned to parents at check-out.

Standing and/or walking down an aisle is only appropriate in between songs (during applause) or during intermission. If returning to your seat in the audience in the middle of concert, wait quietly at the door or back of the aisle until applause occurs.

HOME PRACTICE

Practice at home is expected at all levels. Assigned practice includes approximately between 5-20 minutes a day of vocal exercises and work on specific literature, depending on the choir level. Occasional homework involving written work or memorization of text and/or music should be expected, especially in Concert and Chamber Choirs. Given that choirs meet only once per week, it is important for choristers to review specific pieces of music between rehearsals.

CONCLUSION The Choir depends on the enthusiastic and committed support of all of its members to make its many noteworthy accomplishments possible. Our Choir is a comprised of dedicated singers, parents and professionals who work together to enrich the cultural fabric of our community. We look forward to the contributions and talents of each chorister and family.

San Diego Children's Choir 123 Camino De La Reina, Suite 202 South

San Diego, CA 92108 sdcchoir.org • [email protected] • 858.587.1087

MUST READ TO CONTINUE* Chorister Handbook 16-17

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Transcript of MUST READ TO CONTINUE* Chorister Handbook 16-17