REHEARSAL EXPECTATIONS
Unlike many lecture-style classes, success in a choral rehearsal is achieved almost exclusively through the combined ensemble effort that is put into rehearsal every day. The success of a choral ensemble is entirely dependent on each individual member’s contribution. The following is a general guideline to how to best contribute to a choral rehearsal:
Be prepared for rehearsal – physically, intellectually, and emotionally.
Have music out, pencil in hand, ready to work.
While rehearsing the music, listen for exactly where to start, who is to sing and what they are to do. These instructions will be quick, concise, and to the point; make a point to catch them the first time.
While singing, always listen for instruction that can apply to your part, and mark your music accordingly.
Mark your score (in pencil only) – breaths, cutoffs, dynamics, pitch & rhythm reminders, textual interpretation and translations, vowel modifications, etc.
If your part is not singing at any point during rehearsal, use the silent time to study your music, practice memorization, and search for problem spots to address later. Not singing is not an excuse to talk. Ask questions by raising your hand.
Respect your classmates and take care of each other. Give support wherever you can, and don’t be afraid to reach out to others for help.