Frequently Asked Questions
What if I have to miss?
Attend as many rehearsals as you can so that you're prepared to sing on Sundays. We work on at least four future choral pieces at each rehearsal so you'll always be familiar with the music even if you are occasionally absent. Parts CD's are available for you to listen to in the car or at home. However, attendance on Sunday morning is very important. As a choir member, this is your number one committment.
When do we meet on Sun.?
Meet us in the choir room, located downstairs at the east entrance of the Home for Hope, at 9:15 for the 9:45 service.
What about special events?
The choir performs in at least two major musical productions each year. These productions range from secular musical revues to major classical works. Each production is fully orchestrated with state-of-the-art lighting and set designs. The music and type of production will determine your costuming.
What Is The Chorale Community?
The Riverbend Chorale Community is formed to make sure every person has the opportunity to help out with the responsibilities of the chorale. There are several responsibilities that you may be asked to help with, including being a New Visitor Greeter, New Member Connector, Music Resource Person both before and after rehearsal, Communication Person, Party Facilitators, and Public Relation Person. These responsiblities are for one month at a time and rotated among all of the choir members. There are also Special Project Responsibilities which include mission projects, outreach projects and special social events. These responsibilities are led by a special project leader appointed by Carlton and Susie on an as needed basis. The duration of this commitment will be determined by the project.
Soloist, BGV's, Pit Singers
The Choir is a wealth of talent. Soloists, ensembles, background vocalists and pit singers come from the ranks of the Choir and perform on a regular basis. To become a soloist, background vocalist, pit singer or be in an ensemble, you must audition. For an audition, call Susie in the office at 327-3540. The Riverbend Chorale is the home church of Christian artist, Johnny Ray Watson and frequently hosts special guest artists throughout the year.
Parties, Tours, Retreats
The Choir hosts a monthly birthday party on the first Wednesday of the month to celebrate everyone's birthday that month. The choir also does several 1-2 day tours each year. These tours are by chartered bus and include singing at premiers and also at churches in small towns around Texas. Cost varies depending on the event. The choir also does several outreach type programs each year, especially during the holiday season.
What do we wear on Sun.?
Our church service is televised so it is important that you look professional and classically dressed. We request that you wear dark, rich colors near your face. No jeans are allowed except on Country Sunday, no t-shirts (men or women), no short skirts, outer coats, warm-up suits, halter tops, or shorts. Also, do not wear anything that will draw attention to yourself - that doesn't blend with the choir, such as wearing a hat. And, of course, no coffee cups, purses or gum is allowed on the risers at any time. Otherwise, we are a stylishly casual bunch.