Our section leads are important members of our choir community. They are encouraged to participate in all choir events and truly build relationships within their section and across the entire choir. They are an integral part of Edette’s artistic team along with our collaborative pianist. They have well-defined positions that include the following.
- Be well prepared musically for every rehearsal, so that they can confidently lead their section.
- Facilitate communication with their section, via whichever form of communication works best for the section (WhatsApp group chat, Messenger group, or emails, for example).
- Keep track of absences within their section and let Edette know if someone will be attending on Zoom or if they are completely absent. If any singer has three absences, they will bring this to Edette’s attention.
- Be the first point of contact for singers within their sections. Their singers should feel comfortable bringing questions and concerns to their attention, so that the lead can communicate with Edette or a board member as appropriate.
- Be courteous and compassionate with their constructive suggestions during and outside of rehearsals.
- Efficiently problem solve during rehearsal – quietly enough for rehearsal to otherwise continue.
- Gently discourage chit-chat, cross-talk and “suggestions” from the floor, but encourage anyone who has suggestions to bring them to the lead directly.
- Accept and prepare “in house” solos, as requested by Edette.
- Ask questions during rehearsal (or request repetition or clarification) for the benefit of their section.
- Offer suggestions during problem-solving moments in rehearsal.
- Ensure every member of their section is experiencing success – and communicate to Edette if someone needs extra help to achieve this goal.
- Arrange and lead sectionals alone or with other VCC sections.
- Participate as members of Edette’s artistic team, providing input on programming, repertoire and other artistic matters as requested by Edette.