Strong Choir, Strong Community: Expectations of Singers

Expectations: SANS is a non-auditioned choir, but we expect that singers can match pitch and rhythm in a choral setting, and agree to attend weekly rehearsals, memorize our music and sing off-book in concerts.

Teaching & Learning Music: Some music is taught by ear, with or without lyric sheets. Some music is taught from printed scores. Some will be a combination of the two! Because we travel all over the world, we regularly sing songs in multiple languages. Reading music is not required to succeed in SANS, but you will need to plan some practice time at home to supplement weekly rehearsals. Practice recordings are sometimes provided for more challenging songs, but we strongly suggest bringing your own recording device to take charge of your own learning.

Maintaining a positive sense of community:
SANS values maintaining a positive and mutually supportive sense of community among singers, staff, board and musical leadership.  We value lifting each other up and maintaining flexibility, patience and good humor when navigating the inevitable "bumps in the road" that come with choir life, both at home and on tour.

As part of our mission, SANS travels each year to sing with choirs around the world, building bonds of friendship and mutual understanding. This is at the core of who we are as a chorus and community. Not all singers travel every year. If you are unable to travel, you can still experience the SANS mission of connecting through music in multiple events throughout the year.

Attendance policy:
Singers are required to attend weekly rehearsals and dress rehearsals. Singers are asked to miss no more than 2 in-person rehearsals in the fall, 3 in the spring. Attendance at Dress Rehearsal is mandatory. Exceptions due to illness or extenuating circumstances may be discussed with the music staff.

Singer Communications:
SANS sends weekly emails with key info and maintains a members-only section of our website with learning resources, including lyrics, audio clips and videos. Singers are expected to use these resources as they are made available.

Health Protocols:
Singers with any cold/flu/Covid symptoms are asked to stay home and participate via livestream. Masks are optional at rehearsals and concerts. If we experience a Covid outbreak, or circumstances change, the SANS Board may ask singers to wear masks for a period of time.