|
2009-2010 Choir
Roster (contact Angela for password)
 The Chancel Choir is one of the leaders of worship at Burke United Methodist Church. We have the important responsibility of leading the congregational choir in worship through music. This responsibility is important because a substantial part of every worship service is music. Music is integral to the worship of God. The Chancel Choir is open to any adult who enjoys singing. No audition is required. Rehearsals are on Wednesday evenings from 7:30-9:00pm in the Choir Room, and is directed by Angela Burns, Director of Music Ministries.
Christmas Concert 2006 (click for soundbyte)
The Chancel Choir of Burke United Methodist Church serves God and contributes to the worship of God through the use of the members' talents. Service through the Chancel Choir gives members the opportunity for personal growth, both musically and spiritually.
Do I need to audition to sing in the Chancel Choir?
No. All are welcome! There are no auditions for adult choir membership. The director holds auditions for soloists from time to time.
Do I need to read music?
No. Many of the current choir members do not read music. You only need to come with the willingness to learn and expand upon the gifts given to you. If you would like to learn more about reading music, please speak with the director. If there is enough interest, a short-term class could be taught to help any choir member wanting to learn and grow in this area!
When does the choir rehearse?
Rehearsals are on Wednesday evenings from 7:30-9:00pm. Childcare can be provided if needed. (Please contact Jan Williams in the church office to arrange for childcare.) Choir members are urged to arrive on time and stay for the entire rehearsal. Warm-ups begin at 7:30pm and are an important part of the rehearsal, as vocal techniques and blending exercises are included, and later applied to the anthems we are preparing. Late arrivals and early departures are distracting. If choir members need to leave early, let the director know prior to the start of rehearsal.
What is the attendance policy?
Members are encouraged to attend rehearsals as often as they can. No one is prohibited from singing Sundays because of one or two missed rehearsals. Choir members should use their own discretion in determining whether they are ready to sing on Sundays. However, please try to have regular attendance because YOU ARE IMPORTANT! Regular attendance is needed to build team spirit and an ensemble sound. Please indicate when you will be absent from rehearsals and Sundays by signing out on the calendar posted in the Choir Room.
What happens on Sunday mornings?
The Chancel Choir meets at 9:00am in the Choir Room ready to sing (in robes!). We warm-up and practice the anthem and other service music before the service begins. The Chancel Choir sings both the 9:30 and 11:00 services unless otherwise noted. At least once a month, the youth and children's choirs sing the 11:00 service.
Does the Chancel Choir sing at other Special Services?
Yes. The Chancel Choir sings at the Thanksgiving Service, held the Tuesday before Thanksgiving, at the 8:00pm Christmas Eve service, the Ash Wednesday service, and the Maundy Thursday Service. In addition, we hold a Christmas Concert in December, and perform an Easter Cantata or Requiem.
How do I get a robe?
 Please see Marie Drake in the Soprano section for a robe. All Choir members are responsible for the care and maintenance of their own robes. At the beginning of the fall and then several times during the year, it is highly suggested that you take home your robe for laundering. The stoles need to be dry-cleaned, but the robes may be washed and dried.
Is there a dress code on Sundays?
On Sundays when we process, dark shoes are preferred. Please do wear deodorant, but please do not wear perfume or cologne because many members are allergic and it irritates the vocal folds.
How do I get music? 
Please see our librarian, Sue Munn, in the Soprano section to get a folder and music. After we are finished singing an anthem, please place it in the "IN" box on the shelves in the Choir Room. Please do not wait months to "purge" your folder as it makes more work for the librarian.
How do I sign up to sing or play a solo?
Speak with the director, who would be glad to work with you to prepare a solo to sing in worship. There are opportunities throughout the year for soloists, particularly at the 8:15am service and in July and August at all services. Solo and ensembles are welcomed. Singers are responsible for arranging their own rehearsal time with the accompanist, at his or her convenience.
Does the Chancel Choir sing during the summer?
The choir rehearses and sings from September through June. During July and August there may be one Sunday where the Chancel choir provides the music for worship. On those Sundays, the choir will meet in the Choir Room at 8:45am to rehearse. No other weekly rehearsals will be held in July and August.
Any other questions please contact
Angela Burns, Director of Music Ministires
|
