FAQs for Joining Harrisburg Gay Mens Chorus

The process is easy but we get some of the same questions from people wishing to join us.  Here's some of the most asked questions about joining our group.  If you still need help please don't hesitate to email us a [email protected].

 

Why do I need to audition?

Don't let the word "audition" scare you! Our auditions are simply a way for our director to evaluate your skill level and vocal range.

The audition involves:

  • Some singing exercises to determine your vocal range
  • A few exercises to test your pitch recall
  • Singing a piece of music you are familiar with (i.e. "America The Beautiful")

Your audition will be one-on-one with just you and our director.

Do I have to be able to read music?

No, though it's great if you can.  Once you join Harrisburg Gay Men's Chorus you will have plenty of assistance and help from your fellow members, as well as your section leader and our artistic director.  We do provide singers with vocal (MP3) tracks, so you can practice on your own at home.

Is there an attendance policy?

The Harrisburg Gay Men's Chorus does have an attendance policy. We do understand that members may occasionally become ill or have schedule conflicts with work or other obligations, and may need to miss one or two rehearsals.  You should inform the artistic director of any absences before missing a rehearsal.  Members are allowed to miss two (2) rehearsals per concert season. Once you miss a third rehearsal ou are required to meet with the artistic director before you can continue to sing with the chorus.

Must I be a Harrisburg resident in order to join the chorus?

As long as you can get to rehearsal and performances, you are welcome to join us.  All of our rehearsals and most of our performance venues are within a 30-mile radius of the Harrisburg area, so please consider your travel time when deciding to join the chorus. We currently have chorus members that reside in Cumberland, Dauphin, Lancaster, Lebanon, Perry and York counties.

How much does membership cost?

Yearly membership dues are $100.00 per member ($50.00 per concert season). Dues help us pay for our fixed operational expenses, such as music purchases. insurance, director and pianist salaries, costumes, etc., as ticket sales do not cover all expenses.

DON'T LET THE MONEY FACTOR KEEP YOU FROM JOINING!

There are several options available to those with fixed or limited incomes, such as a payment plan or scholarship assistance.

How do I let you know I would like to audition?

There are three (3) ways you can let us know you are interested in joining the Harrisburg Gay Men's Chorus:

1.      Complete and submit the form on the top left-hand side of the Join the Chorus page.

2.      Send us an email[email protected]

3.      Come in person to one of our open auditions, concerts or events and speak to any chorus member.

Whatever method of contact you choose, please provide your NameEmail Address and a Phone Number. We will personally contact you with information about the upcoming open auditions and answer any questions you may have!

We also staff booths at the Harrisburg Pride Festival, the Lancaster Pride Festival and the York Equality Fest as well, so be certain to stop by our booth and talk to any of our chorus members about singing with us.