Sing With Us!

What is a voice check? 
A voice check is not an audition. You don’t need to have anything prepared! Your voice check will happen with the Artistic Director, Assistant Director, and accompanist. You will be asked about your experience and we will have you sing some vocals so we can figure out your range and vocal timbre. We will then ask you to sing back a few pitches after you listen to them on the piano. With this information, we will then assign you a part (soprano 1, alto 2, tenor 1, etc.). Singing in a voice range that is comfortable and fits your voice is the goal!

Why do we need to do a voice check?
Desert Voices is a non-audition chorus that welcomes members with varying experience. All potential members are required to do a voice check before officially joining the chorus. We use this opportunity to ensure you are singing in the correct section and to make sure that the choir is well balanced in each section. Even if you have a lot of choral experience and vocal training, it is a way that we can meet you and get to know you! It can also be a good time to ask us questions and learn more about the choir.

What should I bring to the open rehearsal?
Your amazing self! Please email us if you are interested in joining us for our open rehearsal. We require potential new members to schedule a voice check with the Artistic Director to be sure you are singing in the correct section. We will also send you an email with downloadable music and practice tracks that you can review so you can sing along with the chorus. The email will give you great pointers on what current singers do to have their music ready. Copies of music will be provided at the first few rehearsals; many members also prefer to use iPads or tablets. If you are using paper copies, please bring a binder!

Are there requirements to join Desert Voices?
While Desert Voices is a non-audition chorus, we do have requirements and guidelines that members agree to in order to participate. With regard to musical ability, we require the ability to match pitch and the ability to sing back pitches accurately. Attendance at rehearsals, paying dues, attendance at dress rehearsals, memorization of music, individual practice, and participation in concerts and outreach events are all mandatory. Missing too many rehearsals, not attending dress rehearsals, and not paying dues may prevent you from singing in concerts.
Dates for rehearsals, retreats, dress rehearsals, and concert dates are communicated at the beginning of each semester on Choir Genius. Outreach events, social events, and sectionals are communicated as they are scheduled. It is each choir member's responsibility to stay informed of the calendar and give proper notice to their section leader if they will be absent!

How often does Desert Voices rehearse?
We rehearse every Sunday evening from 4:30–7:30 pm at the Rincon Congregational UCC Fellowship Hall, with sectionals and other special rehearsals as needed. There are typically one or two weekend retreats per semester that are scheduled on Saturdays.

How do I stay informed in the chorus?
Every member of Desert Voices is given an account on Choir Genius when they join. This website and app has many features including: a way to track attendance; the DV calendar; profiles, photos and contact info for each member; a bulletin board; relevant documents; a store; sheet music with practice tracks; and chats.
Throughout the rehearsal season in preparation for concerts, the Artistic Director and Chorus Council post weekly bulletins with updates on what to practice and other relevant information. Section Leaders also email important information to their sections. Bulletin posts are sent to member’s emails and are posted on a bulletin board on Choir Genius. Members are strongly encouraged to read these Desert Voices emails to stay informed!

Are there financial obligations associated with membership?
Members of Desert Voices are required to pay dues of $90 per semester (or $180 for a full year). Members are responsible for their own concert attire: black tops, black bottoms, black socks, and black dress shoes. We don’t require specific brands or specific clothing items, but ask that members be as uniform as possible. This means that members may need to purchase dress clothes appropriate for DV concerts. A limited amount of donated concert blacks are available.

Members are also encouraged to purchase a Desert Voices shirt for $25. These are often worn for outreach DV events. This is optional, but highly encouraged.

What if I cannot afford the costs of membership? Am I still able to join?
Yes! Desert Voices does not turn anyone away because of finances. We have scholarships available and members of the choir are generous and often help members with dues and other costs. Please contact us if you have any questions or concerns about your ability to afford dues. It is your responsibility to let us know how we can help you!