Q – What is a Special?

A – A Special is an additional song performed during a concert, and does not involve the entire choir.

Q – How many members are in a Special?

A – Specials can range from trios to large ensembles.  Most ensembles sound better with two singers on each part.

Q – Who may perform in a Special?

A – Any active FTS member may perform in a Special.  A member may participate in no more than two Specials during each concert. To perform in a Special, a member must fully intend to participate in both concerts for the weekend.

Q – How do I become part of a group?

A – Groups are formed by individuals inviting others to sing with them.
If there are no openings in the current groups, members can start their own group by asking others to join them.  The groups select songs and plan rehearsal times independent of the choir.

Q – How are songs selected?

A – Songs must follow the theme of the concert. The leader of the group, assisted by interested members, selects several songs that will fit the make-up of the group. These songs are then presented to the group who make the final selection.

Also, songs must be no longer than 3 minutes (approximately) in length.

Q – How do I find a song?

A – JW Pepper (www.jwpepper.com) and Sheet Music Plus (www.sheetmusicplus.com) are two very good resources for locating music.
Both websites will allow you to listen to songs. JW Pepper has a walk in store located at 6735 Sierra Court, Suite E, Dublin, Ca. Sheet Music Plus is only available online. Local music stores also have solo and choral music.

Q – Do I need to purchase the music for each group member?

A – Yes. Each member must have an original piece of music.  In addition, you will need to provide the music for the FTS accompanist and the FTS Webmaster.  All music for Specials is the responsibility of the singer.


Q – How is accompaniment handled?

A – Generally the Chorus Accompanist will provide the piano accompaniment for the concert. However, for pre-audition rehearsals and for the Audition the groups will use a MIDI track to play the piano accompaniment. You may also use an FTS member to provide accompaniment (typically guitar), providing that the member is available for the Audition and both concerts. Your ensemble will provide a licensed score (not a photocopy) to the Specials Committee within the first four weeks of the session, and a MIDI will be prepared for you and made available to use during your rehearsals and the audition. A licensed copy must also be provided to the Chorus Accompanist at this time so that he/she may familiarize themselves with the music ahead of time, should your performance be selected for inclusion in the concert.  Once the finalists are chosen, the Chorus Accompanist will learn the accompaniment and will rehearse with the selected groups prior to the concert.
 
Q – Why doesn’t the Chorus Accompanist just learn the score and rehearse with the ensembles for the Audition?

A – The number of groups wishing to perform in the concert has increased dramatically in the past few years and it is just not feasible for the Chorus Accompanist to learn the music and rehearse with all of the hopefuls. We understand the limitations of rehearsing and auditioning with a MIDI; however, all of the groups share these limitations and this approach creates a level playing field and a predictable audition process for the ensembles.
 
Q – How does a Special get selected to perform in a concert? 

A – There is an audition process. Approximately 4-6 weeks prior to the concert, the Specials perform for the chorus. Each ensemble presents their piece using the MIDI accompaniment with only the piano part played. The chorus members are given the opportunity to provide feedback to the Artistic Director by ranking the Specials and making optional comments about the performances. The Artistic Director considers the feedback and makes the final decision as to which Specials will be included in the concert. There is a limited number of Specials allowed for each concert, and only the very best groups are selected. Decisions are based on many factors including presentation, energy and excitement, good pitch and harmonies, appropriateness of the selection to the concert theme and knowledge of the song. It is recommended that songs be memorized for the audition. All selection decisions are final. 

Q – What if my solo or group isn’t selected?

A – Not all Specials will be selected, for various reasons. Usually there is a good reason for not being selected.  Understandably, it can be upsetting if you/your group is not chosen.  Try again next time.  The experience is fun and valuable, even if the results are disappointing.