Steven C. Edwards
Music Director
Board of Directors
2011-2012
Marci Kraus
President
Bart Folse
Vice President
Fifi Higgins
Secretary
S. Harry Cooper
Treasurer
Emily Adler
Michael Baker
Jane Beebe
Adelaide Benjamin
LaVon Berthelot
Laura Causey
Hank Fanberg
Edwina Frank
Maureen Herring
Susan Lafaye
Mary Beth Maygarden
Ben Pittman
Dulci Reed
Marcia Stubbs
Virginia Vehaskari
Emily Fransen
Administrative Director
Jodee Daroca
Financial Director
Singer Handbook
2011-2012 Season
‘making a difference in the lives of our singers,
our audience, and our community through the
power and beauty of choral singing.’
Sections Leaders 2011-12
SOPRANO: Karen Jakiela - kyjakiela@hotmail.com; Cell: 504-905-1951
SOPRANO: Kay Long - kaybaby@cox.net; Home: 504-833-5652
ALTO: Marci Kraus - marci.kraus@gmail.com;Cell: 504-723-0297
TENOR: Bart Folse - bartfolse@yahoo.com; Cell: 504-613-7728
BASS: Mike Dawson - amdawsonjr3@juno.com; Home: 504-837-0877
ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR: Emily Fransen - admin@symphonychorus.org
MUSIC DIRECTOR: Steven Edwards - sce@symphonychorus.org
Post Office Box 50542, New Orleans, LA 70150 • (504) 525-2111 • www.symphonychorus.org
THE NEW ORLEANS SYMPHONY CHORUS
History
Symphony Chorus of New Orleans (then, known as New Orleans Symphony Chorus) was founded in 1981
under the auspices of the New Orleans Symphony Orchestra to promote the performance of the highest quality
choral music in the New Orleans area on a regular basis. When the New Orleans Symphony Orchestra ceased
operations in 1991 and re-emerged as the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra, the Chorus reorganized as an
entity separate from the orchestra and became known as Symphony Chorus of New Orleans (SCNO). Today,
SCNO functions as a fully independent organization. A community-based volunteer Board of Directors
governs all operations of the Chorus.
The Chorus consists of approximately 85 volunteer singers who must pass a comprehensive audition. All
singers have considerable experience in choral music and many of them hold professional positions with other
choruses and church choirs. All singers commit to weekly rehearsals (2½ hours each) throughout the season,
plus additional time commitments during performance weeks. Singers are also asked to purchase their own
music scores, in instances when they are not provided by the LPO.
Funding is received from public sources, foundations, corporations and individual support.
Symphony Chorus of New Orleans
MEMBERSHIP STANDARDS
2011-2012
The Mission of Symphony Chorus of New Orleans is to make a difference in the lives of our singers, our
audience, and our community through the power and beauty of choral singing.
Members of the Chorus must satisfy certain criteria established by the Music Director and the Artistic
Committee, as stipulated below.
AUDITION AND RE-AUDITION
Auditions for new chorus members are publicized and scheduled each summer and in January. If openings
become available, auditions may be scheduled during the year. Information can be found at
www.symphonychorus.org
Each chorus candidate is to complete the New Singer Information Form, and provide a résumé of musical
training and experience. During the audition, the singer is asked to demonstrate directed vocalization
abilities, pitch memory and sight-reading skills and to perform “And He Shall Purify” from Handel’s
Messiah. In addition, each singer is to perform an aria, art song, or show tune of his/her choice. An
accompanist will be provided.
All chorus members are required to re-audition at the discretion of the Music Director. In addition to
vocal and musical ability, attendance and participation at rehearsals and at performances are criteria for
continued membership.
MEMBERSHIP
Dues and Music Deposits
Chorus members are to register and pay singer dues of $40 for the 2011-12 year. Music scores for
performances scheduled by the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra will be provided to each singer. A
music deposit equal to the replacement value of each score is required. The music deposit will be
refunded if the singer returns the score on time and in acceptable condition. Dues waivers may be
requested for financial hardship. For waiver, contact the Administrative Director, Emily Fransen.
Music Scores
LPO Concerts: The LPO provides music scores to the Chorus for all works presented by the LPO,
with the exception of Handel’s Messiah. LPO scores are on loan to SCNO and must be returned at the
conclusion of the final performance. SCNO will have new music scores available for purchase for those
singers interested in owning their own scores.
SCNO Concerts: Music scores for all concerts produced by SCNO must be purchased by the
singers. Waivers are available for financial hardship. Contact the Administrative Director.
Communication
The primary mode of communication between SCNO and singers will be via email. Singers are
expected to look for and read all emails with the subject heading: “SCNO.” If you prefer to be
contacted by telephone, be sure to inform the Administrative Director.
Participation
Each singer is expected to participate in the full season of performances from September through June.
If unable to commit to all scheduled performances, the chorus member is to notify his/her Section Leader.
Attendance
Each singer is expected to be at all regular rehearsals. If the singer is unable to attend rehearsal, will
be arriving late, or leaving early, he/she should contact their section leader as soon as possible either by
email or by phone call. Conductor rehearsals and dress rehearsals are both required in order for a singer to
participate in the performance.
SCNO Chorale
Occasionally, Symphony Chorus of New Orleans will perform works which demand a smaller chorus.
Singers interested in participating in this chamber chorus will be auditioned and selected at the discretion
of the Music Director.
SINGER RESPONSIBILITIES
REHEARSALS
The artistic quality of the Chorus depends on the committed participation of each of its singers.
1. Chorus members are expected to review and rehearse music between scheduled rehearsals in order to
retain what was rehearsed.
2. Chorus members are to refrain from talking during rehearsals. Chatter is distracting and discourteous.
3. Chorus members are expected to mark their scores (in pencil) as instructed by the Music Director.
4. Borrowed scores are to be marked with pencil only. (No markers, pens; no highlighting parts and no
folding “rabbit ears” onto pages).
5. If a chorus member misses all or part of a rehearsal, it is the singer's responsibility to contact their
Section Leader to get any missed markings, announcements, or other important information.
6. Section leaders are available to assist singers. If you need extra help, have questions, or would like to
share an idea, please contact your Section Leader.
ORCHESTRA REHEARSALS AND CONCERT PERFORMANCE ETIQUETTE
1. Arrive at the concert hall, dressed in appropriate concert attire, by the stated call time.
2. The Music Director is the sole spokesperson for the chorus. Singers are not to yell out answers to
questions asked by the conductor.
3. Do not talk while onstage during rehearsals and performances.
4. Bring a pencil and MARK the conductor’s instructions in your score, and review those markings
between rehearsals and perform as instructed.
6. Only water in closed containers may be brought onstage during orchestra rehearsals. No food.
7. Black folders are to be used to hold music during performances, unless otherwise stated.
8. Enter and exit the stage holding music in the hand “away” from the audience.
9. Remain standing until the conductor signals otherwise.
10. Open music when the conductor raises the baton.
11. Turn pages quietly.
12. Do not turn pages during soloists’ passages.
13. Focus on the soloists and conductor during solo passages, not on the music.
14. Watch the conductor.
15. Close and lower your music when the conductor lowers the baton.
16. Do not applaud, stomp your feet, whistle or catcall while onstage.
17. Do not wear perfume, cologne or any strong scents during rehearsals or performances.
18. Do not cross your legs while seated.
19. Do not wave to friends in the audience.
20. Do not sing along with the soloists.
21. Remember, you work with professional musicians so you should act as a professional musician
also.
REHEARSAL AND CONCERT ATTENDENCE/EXPECTATIONS
1. Chorus members are expected to attend all rehearsals, arriving early and ready to begin at
7:00pm, and staying until rehearsal is over.
2. Chorus members must notify his/her Section Leader of any anticipated absence, late arrival or early
departure.
3. Conductor’s piano rehearsals and orchestra rehearsals are mandatory and as a result of missing them,
you will be unable to perform. However changes can be made at the discretion of the music director,
in consultation with the section leader.
4. As a member of this group, you are expected to perform the entire season, including the Choral
Workshop. If for some reason you are unable to perform for certain performances you need to contact
your section leader and it will be discussed between the section leader and music director.
PERFORMANCE ATTIRE
Ladies:
Black top (blouse or sweater) - long sleeve, V-neck, no collar, no lace, unless lined with black fabric; no skin
showing between blouse and skirt or pants
Black long skirt or pants (no jeans) - ankle length.
Black Belt (optional) - no flashy buckles
Black stockings or socks
Black shoes (heels or flats)
Jewelry (little to none) - nothing flashy or light reflecting
Gentlemen:
Black tuxedo - black vest optional
White tuxedo shirt - plain
Black bow tie
Black socks
Black shoes
Section Leader Responsibilities 2011-2012
1. Singer registration
a. Register each singer in your section.
b. Collect and record the $40 music deposit.
c. Collect and record money for any purchases- music scores, black folders, (possible) CDs.
d. For singers wishing to borrow music: have singers sign Music Score Sign-out Sheet.
e. For singers wishing to purchase music: have singers complete the Music Score Order Form
f. Give each singer the packet of handouts:
i. Rehearsal Schedule-Fall 2010
ii. Performance Schedule- 2010-2011
iii. Membership Standards- 2010
iv. Database Development Sheet
v. Choral Workshop Music Educators Sheet
2.
3.
4.
5.
g. At the end of registration, total the money collected (cash, check, credit card, IOU).
h. Deliver all completed forms and money to the Administrative Director, Emily Fransen.
Rehearsals
a. Arrive 15-20 minutes early to all rehearsals.
b. Assist Music Director as requested.
c. Communicate with your singers all year, answering their questions, and make them feel
appreciated.
i. Give singers in your section your contact information (phone number and email) at the
first rehearsal.
d. Contact singers who miss rehearsal.
e. Be aware of problems.
f. Be a positive conduit between the singers and the Music Director.
g. Offer creative ways to help singers learn their parts (extra rehearsal, CDs, etc.).
h. Promote a sense a camaraderie and fun.
i. Track weekly attendance:
i. Only registered singers’ names will be printed on your attendance sheet. If a new singer
appears in your section, pencil in his/her name and coordinate with the Administrative
Director to be sure the singer is registered and has received all handouts/music scores.
ii. Attendance will be periodically checked by an Artistic committee member.
iii. Mark attendance, noting late arrivals, early departures, and absences.
iv. If a problem arises that needs attention, discuss the issue with the Music Director. Try
to avoid discussing problems with Steven on Tuesday evenings. Email or call him at
another time. Tuesdays are too hectic.
v. Update roster contact information throughout the year, reporting any changes to the
Administrative Director.
vi. Three weeks prior to the concert, you will be asked to present the names of participating
singers. Be sure the names are listed as the singers want them to appear in the program.
j. Record all special announcements and/or instructions, as singers may be calling you for that
information.
k. Be aware of special needs in your section (singers that are having problems learning music,
understanding instructions, etc.) If possible, offer to help them yourself or get them the help
they need. If necessary involve, Steven.
l. Set an example of rehearsal and concert etiquette as stated the membership standards.
Music Scores
a. Work with the Administrative Director to help distribute music scores (Sign-out Sheet).
b. Collect music scores after each concert.
c. Note who returned music on the sign-out sheet.
d. Track down any outstanding scores.
e. Evaluate the condition of each returned score.
f. Give returned scores and completed sign-out sheet to Administrative Director.
Contacting Singers
a. Contact singers in a timely manner whenever necessary
b. Maintain list of singers who prefer to communicate via e-mail and those who prefer phone
calls.
Seat Assignments
a. Assist Music Director, when requested, to establish and maintain seat assignments in your
section.
We have expressed singer expectations in our Membership Standards 2011-2012. Section leaders are
asked to help with the accountability of those standards.
CRITERIA FOR MEMBERSHIP
SCNO BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The mission of the Symphony Chorus of New Orleans is to provide the highest quality of performances of
choral music for the citizens of the greater New Orleans area and to act as Principal Chorus for the Louisiana
Philharmonic Orchestra.
The following can be summarized by stating the most import criteria for a prospective or active Board
Member: An interest in Symphony Chorus of New Orleans.
A member of the Board of Directors is expected to support the mission of the organization by the following:
-
Commit their time to executing all of the required functional activities.
Attend all scheduled Board of Director’s meeting. Two consecutive, unexcused absences may lead to
exclusion as a member.
Serve as an advocate and a spokesperson for the SCNO to the community-at-large
Share personal/business skills and knowledge to enrich the SCNO’s programs, services, and outreach
Make financial contributions to the SCNO
Support all fundraising efforts
Attend fundraising and social events sponsored by SCNO
Participate in the expansion of SCNO membership- its Chorus, Board of Directors, and Supporting
Members
Serve as chairperson or active member on one or more committees
Attend concert and other performances of the Chorus
Exercise good judgment, patience, and fairness in the decision making process of the Board
Contact the President of the Board in the event they are no longer able to meet their responsibilities as
a member of the Board of Directors.
Volunteer Opportunities
This organization can not survive without its chorus members and their support to the chorus. There are many
ways, besides performances, that you can help:
1. Gala- The chorus holds an annual fundraiser party that includes music, food, and an auction. Take an
active part in one of the committees.
2. Set Up/Tear Down- Before and after the performances, there might be a need to help with equipment
such as keyboards, risers, and/or stands.
3. Volunteer for the WWNO Fund Drive- many times Steven participates and it helps to have
members of the chorus also participating.
4. Help with setting up for the various meetings such as the Choral Workshop, setting up the equipment
needed, the refreshments, attendance, handing out music.
5. Help with the SOUL Concert, housing, feeding, and chauffeuring the SOUL members. Help selling
tickets, displaying posters, and supplying refreshments for the after- party.
6. Volunteer to car-pool when necessary.
7. Help the Administrative Director whenever needed.