Frequently Asked Membership Questions

Can I take my music home with me?

We ask that you turn in your guest music folder at the end of the night. If you'd like to take a piece of music home to work on, we can certainly arrange to get a copy for you. Music is expensive and for copyright purposes, we need to keep a close eye on it. Once you join though, we'll give you your own set of music.

How is barbershop singing different than choral music?

You will find that while barbershop and choral music have similarities, there are differences. For example, we don't hold sheet music during performances. We add choreography to some of our songs. Our baritones and basses read their music in the bass clef, but sing an octave higher. We have flexibility with the interpretation of our arrangements and our enunciation is more in the "pop" singing style (we rarely sing hard d's or t's at the end of a word.)

Do I need to audition?

We don't like to use the word "audition" because, let's face it... auditioning can be a scary thing. If you decide to join, however, we want to make sure you can match pitch and accurately sing your voice part within the chorus. This can be done informally during riser rehearsals or in a smaller group setting. No need to worry!

What is my time commitment if I decide to join the chorus?

For now we want you to enjoy yourself and find out if this group is for you. No chorus activity is mandatory, but we certainly encourage members to participate in as much as they can. We learn and grow together so it's important to be together. Rehearsals are year-round on Tuesdays from 7-10 PM, at the UAW Hall on Textile Rd. Performances are accepted based on member availability and a balance of vocal parts. Our spring competition is the highlight of the year and we have vocal coaches that come in and work with the chorus. Most sessions are on Tuesdays, but for the coaches traveling a great distance, we sometimes schedule a Saturday coaching session.

What does it cost to be a member?

Once you decide to join and have been accepted, you will be asked to complete an application. The application gets sent to Sweet Adelines headquarters with a check for $80 (1/2 price for members 25 years or younger.) This is a one-time payment and can be paid to the chorus in installments if arrangements have been made with our finance person, Theresa Briggs. Monthly chorus dues are $22 ($11 for members 25 years or younger.) Payments are due at the 1st of each month and can be paid with cash or check. Chorus dues help pay for music, costumes, director fees, and vocal coaching. Travel, shoes and make-up are examples of expenses that members pay individually. We try to keep individual costs low with paid performances and fundraisers. We are a non-profit 501(c3) educational organization, so some things associated with membership are tax deductible.