The Music of the Tay

What is the purpose of the choruses?

The choruses provide an opportunity for members of the community who like to sing an opportunity to come together, learn and enjoy each others talents through music. We utilize high quality professional arrangements to bring ourselves together in harmony. Concerts and performances are an added benefit to being a member of the chorus.

How much does it cost to be a member?

The choruses do not have a set fee. Each year the costs of the new music is divided among the number of members within the chorus. Some seasons there has been no cost at all, while others it is between $30-$50. Any monies made during the year are used to offset the music costs. Any member who has difficulties with the costs of the music simply talks to the director in confidence and other arrangements are made.

Do I need to buy a special uniform?

The choruses perform in “normal” clothes. For example: dark pants, a white shirt and a vest for the men; a black ensemble for the women. Before the concert we discuss what we would like to wear and then try to achieve a harmonious look. You should not have to go out an buy special clothes to be a member.

How are concerts and performances arranged?

Each year the chorus attempts to have a Christmas and a June concert. Any other engagement during the year is put to the entire group and a vote is taken on taking on the booking. If there is sufficient interest and enough members of every section available the we commit to the engagement.

Many of our bookings come through our members who belong or work with groups that can benefit from our talents.

What about rehearsals and bad weather?

If the school buses do not run then there is no rehearsal that evening, even if the weather improved. Similarly, we normally do not meet on school holidays or other days when the schools are closed. We will send out a reminder email and post the rehearsal notice on this website. If we have to cancel a rehearsal later in the day then we will activate a phone tree, email and post a notice. No one should ever venture out in poor weather.

I travel out of the country each winter, can I still join?

Absolutely. Many of our members must leave the chorus for business or personal reasons. We will be happy to welcome you back when you return.

I want to join, but it is later in the season, should I come out?

Please come and sing with us right away. If we have a concert imminent you may wish to step aside until you have the music under your belt, but soon you will be enjoying your time with us and we can always use your talents.

I have to leave the chorus, what about my music?

Members who must leave us are asked to return all of their music. It is impossible to replace single copies of music to give to an incoming new member. Often the minimal order is 30 or more copies so it was decided that the music would ultimately belong to the chorus. All music belongs to the chorus and is retained in the chorus music library.