A FEW WORDS ON HOW TO “DO” SMALL GROUPS
(from Cheri and Sari)

1. It’s a lot of hard work. Be prepared! If you have trouble getting to the regular Wednesday rehearsals, keep in mind that a small group adds at least half again as many rehearsals to your schedule. Be fair and self aware in deciding whether you can pull off being in a small group, as well as the regular choir schedule.

2. You should have your music picked no later than the end of October; and this means you have the sheet music in your hot little hand. It is even better if you have it earlier. It helps if the music is already in the parts i.e., duet, trio, quartet or double any of those (a double quartet is how the octet is done); or you work out the parts yourself (if you have that talent/skill).

3. If you want to be in a small group, always keep your eyes peeled for something that grabs you; don’t wait until the session starts to begin looking. The earlier you have your music; the better chance of getting whatever help you might need from Cindy.

4. It will make your entire experience easier and fun if one person is the leader of your group. This doesn’t mean they’re a dictator, just the person who spends the time to make sure that everyone has music, that they know when rehearsals are going to be held, where, etc. The Driving/Organizing Force, if you will. Usually, this is the person who started the group.

5. Cindy is very willing to help with all aspects of your performing. But it IS NOT her responsibility. She will help you find music, if you need it. She will help you with practice tapes (thank-you gifts of chocolate, almond roca, etc. go a long way to giving her the energy to keep up). She will help you with some rehearsals. But, it is YOUR group. Remember that chorus needs come first (practice tapes, etc.), so see number 2.

6. When picking the people you want in your group, think of blend, personalities and singing ranges. It helps to have a strong singer paired with a quieter or more hesitant singer (if you have more than one person on a part). You want to have fun with this; don’t make it more difficult than it has to be.

7. Start practicing (listening to tapes or plunking on the piano) immediately upon receiving your music. Don’t wait. Set up rehearsal times, even if you have only had the music for a week. Practice individually, too. If your group is large; set rehearsal times even if only a few people can make it. DO NOT just set times when everyone can be there. You will just be very, very frustrated and nothing will get done. Don’t worry if you can’t find a time when everyone can be there. The people who can be there will be able to support those who can’t make as many rehearsals. (again, see #1)

These are the things that we have found help getting a group together.
I hope it will help any of you who are thinking of singing in one. Merry Singing.