INFORMATION FOR PERFORMERS

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Dress Code

The purpose of a dress code is to enhance the Chorus in concert, and to direct the focus of the audience to the music and the architectural setting, rather than the performers. Obviously the singers are the most dynamic ingredient in most performances, but we should not intentionally distract the listeners with our appearance. It is also essential that singers not impair or distress their colleagues, which can sometimes occur through apparently harmless behavior.

 

Frequently the buildings in which we perform will not have adequate facilities for changing into concert attire. Therefore it is prudent to arrive at the warm-up rehearsal already changed. Whether or not you are able to change clothing at the concert venue, you must be in concert dress 30 minutes before the start of the concert in order to participate in the concert warm-up.

 

Men 

Black tuxedo jacket and trousers

Plain black shirt (no frills) with turned down collar, buttons or studs, if discreet, buttons or cuff links

NOTE: No tie is worn

Black or Navy Blue cummerbunds may be worn, but no waistcoats

Suspenders may be worn, if hidden

Patent (shiny) or plain black shoes, with black, dark gray or navy blue socks

 

Women 

Black full length dress (long sleeved) reaching the ankles

- or -

Black matching shirt/blouse (long sleeved) and long black skirt or pants that reach the ankles

Black nylons or stockings

No jewelry, brooches or necklaces

Plain black shoes, preferably flat. You may have to effect smooth and fairly rapid entrances and exits, often using stairs

 

Jewelry, Badges and Emblems

To sing in a choir is to subsume your individuality within the wider context of a group—the audience should attend to the choir, not to particular singers. Since we are all prone to pick out marks of distinction in the appearance of others, you are asked therefore not to wear jewelry or other distinguishing features such as large ear-rings, white or colored handkerchiefs, or brooches.

 

To Smell or Not To Smell?

Obviously it is unpleasant to sing with someone who has not used a deodorant, especially since concerts can become 'sweaty occasions,' but it is important for performances that singers use non-perfumed anti-perspirants and not wear fragrances. This may have a comic ring to it, but it's no joke to those who are allergic to certain perfumes and colognes. So please be thoughtful and avoid upsetting your fellow singers.

 

Taking Care of Valuables

Some of the venues in which we sing have experienced theft and cannot guarantee the security of your valuables. Therefore you are entirely responsible for your own possessions. Where possible, a locked room will be found in which to store valuables, but it would be sensible to leave your property with friends in the audience or locked in your car.

 

Lost or Damaged Music Scores

Since the music library represents the Chorus's single most important material asset, it is essential that it be maintained efficiently and that lost or damaged copies be replaced immediately. Therefore it is the policy of the Board to charge singers who are at fault for any copies which, in the opinion of the Artistic Director, must be replaced. The exact amount to be charged is set by the Artistic Director, and includes any relevant taxes, import duties and mailing costs. Any outstanding charges will be deducted from future concert fees.