CARDIFF POLYPHONIC CHOIR - Guidelines for Choristers

Since its foundation in the early 1960s, the Cardiff Polyphonic Choir has aspired to be one of the finest mixed choirs in Wales. To maintain this status, we rely on a consistent and committed membership. We aim to attract singers who are able and prepared to make a real contribution to the Choir's continued success. The Committee has therefore produced the following guidelines so that all choristers understand the level of commitment expected from them.

1.         Choristers must attend all rehearsals, except when unable to for the reasons given below in point 2. The Musical Director reserves the right to review a chorister's continued membership of the choir if attendance falls below 80% of rehearsals.

2.         Choristers unable to attend a rehearsal must tell Keith or Richard prior to the rehearsal. Absence from rehearsals will only be excused if:

a)         a chorister is ill;

b)         a chorister has unavoidable work or domestic commitments, including holidays; or if

c)         a chorister has sought and obtained the permission of either the Musical Director or the Manager.

3.         The Committee will maintain a register of attendance.

4.         Choristers must be present at 6.50 p.m. so that rehearsals can start promptly at 7.00p.m.

5.         Choristers should not rely solely on rehearsals to learn music. Those who miss a rehearsal are expected to be familiar with the music studied in their absence.

6.         Choir breaks are as follows:

·        From after the Welsh Proms to the first Thursday in September; and

·        From our final concert at Christmas until the first Thursday in the New Year.

The Choir will rehearse in school half-term breaks as a general rule and during the Easter period. Choristers who have made holiday arrangements should pass on their apologies in the usual way if they are unable to attend rehearsals during these times.

7.         Marking of copies in pencil (with eraser) is essential to ensure consistent interpretation of tempo, phrasing and dynamics.

8.         Attendance at all concerts is expected. Non-attendance is acceptable only in exceptional circumstances.

9.         Choristers will not be allowed to sing in concerts if, in the opinion of the Musical Director, they have not attended a sufficient number of rehearsals. Attendance at the rehearsal immediately before a concert is mandatory.

10.       If a chorister anticipates a prolonged period of absence, s/he must seek formal leave of absence from the Manager or Chair. It may not be possible to hold places indefinitely, and the Musical Director may choose to re-audition a chorister wanting to return following a prolonged period of leave.

Other Information

Subs

These are payable either annually (£100) or termly (£35) and are collected by Anne Rees. Subs cover the cost of (amongst other things) the rehearsal venue, hire of music, coach costs where necessary, orchestral musicians and soloists. Please make cheques payable to “Cardiff Polyphonic Choir”.

Concert dress

Gentleman: White shirt, black bow tie, black tuxedo and black shoes.

Ladies: Jewellry should be discreet. Choir dress available from Maggie for a deposit of £40 which is redeemable if you leave the choir. Alterations can be made at Cahoots Dressmakers, Woodville Road, Cathays, Cardiff.

Concert etiquette

Choristers must buy a plain black ring binder folder for concert use.

Leave of absence

From time to time Choristers may need to take extended periods of absence from the Choir for personal or domestic reasons. Choristers wishing to take leave of absence must apply in writing to the choir chair and/or manager in the first instance.