| Q: |
What is Barbershop Harmony? |
| A: |
Barbershop is an original American music art form, consisting of four parts, all sung a cappella (without instrumental accompaniment) - following a set of musical rules. When sung properly, Barbershop allows for a full range of human expression not easily found in other music forms. |
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| Q: |
Isn't Barbershop just sung by a bunch of old guys? |
| A: |
Not at all! People as young as 9, and as old as 92 sing and enjoy the thrills of the Barbershop sound! Women also enjoy singing Barbershop along with other a cappella styles. They have a sister organization called Sweet Adelines International. |
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| Q: |
How much singing experience do I need to have to sing barbershop or to join the NWS? |
| A: |
No prior experience is required but you do need to be able to sing in tune, match pitches and harmonize. |
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| Q: |
What's the audition like? |
| A: |
After attending at least three rehearsals you'll be eligible to audition for membership in the chorus. Auditions are held with our vicepresident of music and performance and section leaders to determine your level of musical experience, your ability to harmonize, and to confirm your voice part. You may be asked to learn part of a song and sing it in a quartet. The audition is a painless process that takes about 10 - 20 minutes and is generally held during a break at rehearsal. |
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| Q: |
What kind of time commitment is involved to belong to the NWS? |
| A: |
We rehearse from 7:00 to 10:00pm every Wednesday. We put on two shows per year (June and December) and compete in two chorus competitions per year (which may include some regional travel). Just before shows and competitions we may have an half-day rehearsal on a Saturday. Practicing your music at home is expected. Competition and quartet participation is optional. |
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| Q: |
How much is membership in the NWS and what are other incidental costs? |
| A: |
Currently, annual dues are ~$170 (flexible payment plans are available) and include Chorus, Evergreen District, and Barbershop Harmony Society memberships. Members receive the semiannual District newsletter "The Timbre" and the bi-monthly Society magazine "The Harmonizer", in addition to a wide variety of other benefits. Contest entry is typically $30 - 40 per member. Some uniform items are provided, but most will need to be purchased. |
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| Q: |
Are there special membership prices for students? |
| A: |
Yes! Student dues are discounted by half! |
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| Q: |
Do I need to wait for a special guest night to come by and visit a rehearsal? |
| A: |
Absolutely NOT! Every rehearsal is open to the public. You can come to listen or join us in song on the risers. The only times we may ask you watch, and not participate, is when we are preparing for contest. |
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| Q: |
Who can I contact to hire the chorus or a quartet? |
| A: |
Bookings are handled by our
VP of Marketing and Public Relations. |
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| Q: |
Even if I can't sing are there ways I can become involved in the NWS? |
| A: |
Yes. We are always looking for volunteers to help with the production of our (2) annual shows, Volunteer opportunities exist in set building, stage direction, lighting, costume design and production. |
