I'm not a trained musician. Would I still be able to audition for the Chorus?
Our members come from a wide variety of backgrounds. Some are trained and working as music educators and choir directors, but the majority have developed a love of singing during their school years and have continued to find an outlet for it through church choirs and community choruses.
While we don’t ask that members be proficient in sight-reading, we do expect our members to read music and understand musical notations and dynamics.
What kind of music does the Chorus perform?
The Chorus performs the classical repertoire typically found in a Symphony program. We also perform Christmas Pops programs and occasionally other popular music. Our emphasis, however, is on the classical choral literature.
Where and when does the Chorus rehearse?
Our rehearsal schedule is driven by the Richmond Symphony’s season programming of choral works. We usually start rehearsals in late August and continue through early December. We resume rehearsals after the start of the new year and continue into April or May.
The Chorus rehearses on Tuesday evenings, from 7:30 to 10:00pm in Rhythm Hall at Dominion Arts Center (formerly Richmond CenterStage), downtown at 6th & Grace Streets. Complimentary parking deck or street parking is available for rehearsals and performances. Rehearsals with the orchestra may be on Wednesday and/or Thursday and/or Friday evenings prior to a performance. Occasionally dress rehearsals are on Saturday.
During the pandemic, rehearsals will still occur on Tuesday evenings, but will mostly be held on Zoom and will typically last from 7:30-10:00pm.
How often does the Chorus perform?
We typically participate in several Messiah and Christmas Pops performances each year, as well as two to four additional performances with the Symphony. These include concerts in the Masterworks series, Pops, Metro Collection, or other special events.
During the pandemic, we will prepare several video projects and possible outdoor popup concerts. More information coming soon.
Are Chorus members paid or do they volunteer?
Although membership is through audition, Chorus members are volunteers. Each member receives one or two complimentary tickets to a performance in which they participate. For rehearsals and performances, members can take advantage of vouchers for free parking at a nearby deck (at 5th and Marshall Streets, behind the Marriott Hotel).
Is music provided or do I need to purchase it?
Music is provided, but members often have the option of purchasing their scores. Members must provide their own black music folder for performances.
What is the rehearsal attendance policy?
We ask that our members attend all rehearsals. However, we understand that work conflicts, family commitments, and illness will occasionally occur, requiring a member to be absent. If absences become excessive, we will ask the member to withdraw from those upcoming performances and resume rehearsals with us after that.
