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. 

 

 

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