Top Notes

Top Notes Concert Choir: A Year-Long Commitment

Top Notes is BIS’s prestigious, high-achieving concert choir, where students come together to perform at a high level of musical excellence. While no formal audition is required to join, students must demonstrate a strong commitment to the choir for the entire school year. This commitment includes consistent attendance at all rehearsals, punctuality, and independent practice at home or during free time at school.

Rehearsals:
Top Notes meets every Wednesday afternoon from 3:15 PM to 4:30 PM in the BIS Music Room. Rehearsals are generally led by Ms. Helene Piper (M.Mus.Ed / Contemporary Choral Conduction 2006), but occasionally we are lucky to receive special workshops with top choral instructor Ms. Elise Bradley from Takapuna Grammar School.

Performances:
The choir performs at significant school events such as the annual concert evening and the end-of-year prize-giving ceremonies. Additionally, Top Notes competes in the national choral competition The Kids Sing, where in 2024 they were awarded bronze.

Expectations and Requirements:

The repertoire for Top Notes is advanced, with 3-4 part harmonies and intricate arrangements.
Members are expected to practice regularly at home in order to maintain the high standard of performance.
Some members may be invited to perform solo parts, or auditions may be held for this.

Commitment:
By signing up for Top Notes, students commit to the choir for the entire school year. After a single trial session, students must confirm their participation. If you join, you are expected to consistently attend rehearsals, be on time, and dedicate time to personal practice as needed.

For students seeking a serious, rewarding musical challenge, Top Notes offers the opportunity to perform at the highest standard while being part of a dedicated and talented group.