4 Specials.
Specials are additional songs performed during a concert that do not involve the entire chorus. Specials can range from trios to large ensembles. Only active FTS members may perform in a Special.
a. Auditions. All
those wishing to sing in a Special must audition. Auditions are held 4-6 weeks
prior to the concert. A limited number of songs will be
approved by the Artistic Director with input from the
membership.
b. Music
Selection. Songs should fit with the theme of the
concert. Each member participating in a Special must purchase
an original licensed piece of music. In addition, the group must
provide the music for the FTS accompanist and the Specials Committee (for
the purpose of creating a MIDI file for rehearsal/audition) if the
performance will be using piano accompaniment.
c. Accompaniment. Groups
or individuals wishing to perform a Special must be either accompanied by
the Chorus Accompanist, or accompanied by an FTS member, or perform the song a cappella.
Occasionally we have guest instrumentalists for the session, and those
instrumentalists may be used in a Special performance if they are willing to
perform these additional services on an unpaid basis.
d. Participation. A
member may participate (audition or perform) in no more than two Specials
during each concert.
e. Practice Aids. In
order to manage the workload of the Chorus Accompanist, the Audition
will be performed utilizing MIDI files to provide the piano accompaniment. The
MIDI file will be produced by the Specials Committee and made available for
rehearsal purposes, or a Specials candidate group or individual can produce
their own MIDI and provide that for use at the Audition. A licensed copy of the
music must be given to the Specials Committee if a MIDI is required.
f. Concert
Participation. All participants in Specials must be available to
perform in both concerts (Saturday and Sunday). Ensemble leaders must confirm
that the members have checked their schedules. If it is discovered that a
Special participant has a conflict and cannot perform on one or both of the
concert days, the ensemble or solo may be dropped from the program.
g. Audition
Participation. If a member (or members) of a Special will not be available
to audition on the set audition date, their Special may still participate in
the Audition process. However, this may impact the selection decision. Early
Auditions are not permitted except under extraordinary circumstances.