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2013 Auditions
Saturday, February 16, 2013

Questions?

See below for FAQs regarding the audition and introductory
membership processes. If your
question cannot be answered
there, feel free to contact us
with any other questions!
microphone
Thank you for your interest in joining the Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir.

Auditions happen annually in February/March, so check back with us in 2014!

Connect with us, and get updates on news and upcoming events!

Audition Process and Frequently Asked Questions:

When are auditions held and how do I sign-up?
Auditions are held as determined by the Musical Director, usually in February, and are conducted by appointment only. Please request an appointment using the form above when it becomes available. You may also call (510) 839-4361 or fax your information to (510) 550-2891.

What does the audition consist of?
You will be asked to sing one song of your choice, gospel or secular. You may sing a cappella, or you may bring music and our pianist will accompany you. You will also be asked to sing scales and intervals, which will first be played for you on the piano. Your vocal range will also be measured.

Is experience necessary?
OIGC is a volunteer choir with professional standards, but experience is not necessary. The Director is looking for a certain degree of skill, however, as well as voices that satisfy the musical needs of the choir.

Do I have to read music?
No. Most of our music is taught by ear. Occasionally, sheet music will be utilized, but the ability to read music is not mandatory.

Do I need any special equipment?
Because most of our music is taught by ear, a small, portable tape recorder or other audio recording device is essential.

What kinds of songs does the Choir sing?
We sing black gospel music, including spirituals; traditional, contemporary and original gospel music; gospelized Christmas tunes and classics.

How often does the Choir rehearse?
Every Monday evening, except when on break.

How often does the Choir sing?
About 30 times a year.

Does the Choir take a break?
Usually for one month in July or August, and for a few weeks for the Winter Holidays.

Does the Choir travel?
We have traveled throughout the United States to cities such as Charleston, New Orleans and Portland. We have also performed in Canada, Australia and Israel. Members usually pay their own way with a subsidy provided through the Choir’s fundraising efforts.

What if I pass the audition?
See the introductory membership information that follows. Successful completion of the audition is at the sole discretion of the Musical Director, taking the musical needs of the choir into account. Successful completion of an audition grants the applicant introductory membership in the choir.

Introductory Membership

The introductory membership period lasts three months or longer at the discretion of the musical director and/or the Choir Council.

Members are expected to attend all rehearsals. Rehearsals are scheduled on Monday nights from 7 p.m. until 9:30-10 p.m. at Imani Community Church, 3300 MacArthur Blvd., Oakland. Promptness is expected.

New members must attend all performances as an observer, except those specified by Staff or the Musical Director.

Adherence to the OIGC Code of Conduct and dress code is required.

Introductory members pay dues at 1/2 the regular rate. Dues are set by the OIGC Board of Directors, based on the budgetary needs of the choir and are due and payable at the time of the first rehearsal each month. Currently, introductory members pay $12.50 per month.

Any member who is going to be absent from a rehearsal and/or performance is required to notify one of their Section Leaders in advance, or in an emergency, at the earliest possible time after the absence. You will be given a roster and introduced to your Section Leaders at your first rehearsal.

Introductory members will be accepted as active members upon successful completion of the introductory period. Successful completion is determined by the Section Leader and Musical Director and for new members is not subject to appeal.

New members must purchase a uniform. The uniform consists of a robe and dress for women and a robe and suit for men, and two different t-shirts and a sweatshirt for both men and women. New dresses and robes range from $150-$200 each; the suit and accessories cost approximately $177. T-shirts are $10 and sweatshirts are $20. After you have received approval from the Musical Director, you should contact the Uniform Coordinator to arrange for a fitting and/or garment purchase. It is understood and agreed that the choir member will keep the uniform in good repair and in the event of termination of membership, the choir member has the option of donating their uniform in exchange for an IRS tax exemption letter (Suits are excluded). Further information will be provided when the uniform is issued and prices are subject to change as uniform pieces change. All uniforms must be paid for prior to taking possession.

Following acceptance into the choir as a singing member, a serious intent to make 100% of our performances and sound checks is required, but you may miss one performance per quarter or 20% of performances, whichever is greater. Members can miss no more than two rehearsals per quarter; they are also expected to keep dues current. Warning status is imposed if a member fails the attendance requirements or falls two or more months delinquent on dues. Warning status for two quarters in a row will result in the membership being reverted to introductory status for one quarter. Membership terminates if the member again fails to make his/her commitment either in the introductory status quarter or the following quarter.