What’s the time commitment for the spring session?
Our first regular (2-hour) Monday evening rehearsal is January 5.
Family Day is our only Monday off – regular rehearsal on Easter Monday.
Dress rehearsal on Thursday April 16.
Our spring concerts are Saturday April 18 (afternoon) and Sunday April 19 (evening).
We are also planning to have community performances on the afternoon of Saturday April 11.
Is there homework?
Yes! The director will email an “assignment” of music to review each week. We provide samples of each voice part so that you can more easily learn at home. You are expected to attend all rehearsals and performances, and to sing along with a recording (on YouTube) of any rehearsals that you have to miss.
Why is there a membership fee?
Like all recreational activities, community choirs have dues, and ours are well below average. Running a choir costs a lot! Please see our Support Us page for more details on our finances.
Can I just attend a few rehearsals before I pay my dues?
Anyone can sit in on a rehearsal, anytime, to see what the choir is like. But if you wish to sing with us that session, we require that you register and pay your dues by the first night. You will not receive a music package until you pay them. However, dues are refundable for 2 weeks on return of music (refund deadline for this session: September 22, 2025 at 9 PM). Follow the instructions on the registration form to make your payment, preferably in advance.
Can my child join the choir?
Yes, but if your child is under 16, they must be accompanied to all rehearsals and performances by an adult.
Will I get to keep my music?
No, all music must be returned immediately following the concert, in the condition in which you received it (no holes, pen marks, or highlighting!) Some of it may be borrowed or rented.
Do I need to bring anything to rehearsal?
A water bottle and a pencil are essential. You also need a black folder for your music, that you must use at every rehearsal (unless you cannot hold one, and will be using a music stand for the performance). A regular 3-ring binder will only work if you purchase 3-ring magazine holders for it, because you may not punch holes in our music. We recommend and have a supply of Canadian-made Choralex Compact music folders with double strings (for 20 pieces of music), and sell them for $30. If you would like to purchase one, please send a separate e-transfer to donations@pembrokecommunitychoir.org and put “Choir folder for (your name)” in the message box.
What is the choir’s policy on infections?
Because of the nature of singing – we spit, up to 5 metres! – we require that members stay home if they have any symptoms of illness that could be transmitted through the air.
You are welcome to wear a mask (we have singer’s masks for sale) but they are not required, and are NOT a substitute for staying home if you’re ill.
We record our rehearsals so you can sing along at home if you’re under the weather, and not fall behind.
If I join, can you ensure my anonymity online? In short, no. While we can keep your name out of the concert program and off our website, you will be performing in public, and anyone in the choir or audience may take your picture or video and post it on social media. We also record each concert, and it is sometimes shown on local TV or posted to YouTube.
Which voice part should I choose on the Registration Form?
If you haven’t sung in a choir in a while, try this online test to see your range. If you aren’t sure about the result, come early on the first night and ask for a quick range test (this is not an audition, just a way of assuring that you will be comfortable singing your part.)
How do I register to join the choir?
You will have to wait until registration opens for the fall, on August 15th.
