About Joining DWC
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General Information
Does the group have practice materials available?
The Chorale uses Choir Genius, an internet site, where singers have access to practice recordings provided for each part. In addition, the app Playback Genius is available at a nominal cost and provides mobile phone access to the part recordings.
What if I need extra help learning the music?
In addition to the Monday night rehearsals, members attend 2-4 sectional rehearsals each season, led by their voice part Section Leader. These are held at a member’s home on an agreed-upon date. These outside sectionals help singers master pitches, timing, and rhythms. In addition, casual practices are held weekly at members’ homes.
What other musical activities are available to the Diablo Women’s Chorale members?
Special workshops may be scheduled where members work with a noted music clinician. There are also opportunities for optional outreach performances
Auditions
What is the Diablo Women’s Chorale looking for in singers?
First and foremost, the Chorale seeks team players who will commit to our high artistic standards and regular rehearsal attendance. Singers must be able to maintain pitch and learn the music in a timely fashion. Sight-reading ability is not required but is helpful.
How do I prepare for the audition?
Prospective singers are auditioned/interviewed by the Music Director. Singers might be asked to vocalize, sing scales a cappella (without accompaniment), or present a prepared piece of your choice; the Membership Chair will advise you on the specifics. Each audition takes approximately ten minutes.
How do I know which part I sing?
During your audition, the Music Director will work with you to determine your vocal range and the part you might sing.
Do members have to re-audition each season?
Continuing members do not have to re-audition. Past members who return after taking a break of more than one season will be asked to re-audition.
When will I know the results of my audition?
Potential members typically are notified within 24 hours, but always before the following rehearsal.
Fees
How much does it cost to sing with the Diablo Women’s Chorale?
Members currently pay $275 per season which covers dues, sheet music and provides access to the voice part recordings. The amount is subject to change based on expenses and fundraising efforts. Miscellaneous expenses may be incurred during the season to cover small purchases such as costume accessories. The chorale has a needs-based scholarship program for continuing or returning members.
Performances
Do I need to buy a performance costume?
The basic concert attire consists of "performance black," the particulars of which change from time to time. Seasonal accessories are sometimes provided by the chorale or purchased with approval by the membership.
When are the concerts held?
Fall concerts are held in early to mid-December. Spring concerts are held in mid to late May or early June.
Are there dress rehearsals?
Dress/technical rehearsals are typically held in the week preceding the performance, often as the last scheduled rehearsal of the season. Singers are required to wear their concert attire.
Repertoire
Since this is a secular community chorus, do you sing holiday songs? Do you have an affiliation with the houses of worship where you perform?
Our music is selected from the broadest range of compositions and the repertoire often includes holiday music from different faith traditions. Pieces are selected for their musical qualities rather than for any religious message. The Diablo Women’s Chorale has no affiliation with the houses of worship where we rehearse or perform. Locations are selected based on our acoustical and practical requirements, such as budget, audience capacity, and parking.
Are there solo/small group opportunities?
Yes. These opportunities vary widely depending on the program. Some will be auditioned, and some will be assigned.
Rehearsals
What happens at a rehearsal?
Singers are expected to be in their places at 7:00 pm. The Music Director leads us in physical and vocal warm-ups to prepare us for singing. The Music Director selects several pieces of music for the evening’s rehearsal from our season’s repertoire. There is a 5- to 10-minute break during the rehearsal.
What is the rehearsal attendance policy?
Members are expected to attend all rehearsals. We understand that illness or obligations will occasionally conflict, causing a member to be absent. More than three absences in a season is considered excessive.
How long is the rehearsal season?
Rehearsals usually begin in mid-August for fall seasons and mid-January for spring seasons. Seasons conclude following the concerts.
Required Activities
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Are members expected to volunteer?
Yes. The chorale is a volunteer-based organization. It is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors and members participate by volunteering in various activities such as finance, publicity, marketing, development, concert planning and fundraising.
Do I need to practice outside of the weekly rehearsals?
We perform "off-book" at our concerts, and the Music Director establishes the “memorize by” schedule for each song. While there is no specific requirement, each singer is expected to spend time each week rehearsing on their own, as needed.
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