Neil—A member of the Billings BoyChoir

Being a Chorister

So, you're a Chorister in the Billings BoyChoir. Congratulations!. Participation in the ensemble can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your youth. To get the most out of your time with the ensemble, there are a few responsibilities that you need to fulfill. These are discussed below. It's not a long list, but it's important that each chorister does his best.

The Billings BoyChoir is much more than merely a collection of musicians. Magic occurs when each chorister fills his role, and the ensemble becomes far more than the sum of its parts. Each Chorister makes a contribution to the ensemble that is uniquely his. If you miss a rehearsal or a performance, your absence leaves a hole that can't be filled by anyone else, so the entire ensemble is "different". We each become accustomed to singing with the same voices around us, so an absence is a hardship shared by everybody.

We each have other interests and sometimes there are conflicting demands. While you are a Chorister, your dedication to the ensemble must not waiver. At times, you might feel that you can skip a rehearsal. Don't. If you absolutely must miss a rehearsal, please let the Director know ahead of time if at all possible. Don't miss a performance.

The Events Calendar on the website is kept up to date with rehearsal notices, performance dates, times, and places. Please get used to referring to it.

Rehearsal time is for working together, not for memorizing the music. But, since the ensemble always performs without music, you need to memorize your part in the music and the lyrics. Of course, we will use music during rehearsals (until we get close to performances) and of course, new music will be introduced during rehearsals, but you will need to spend some time between rehearsals practicing your part and memorizing. Each chorister will be given a recording of the music to help with memorization and of course, you can take the music home with you—just remember to bring it with you to each rehearsal!

(This isn't hard. You will be surprised at how much you will have memorized during rehearsal. Think of all of the songs that you've learned already—without really trying!)

It has been written that you learned everything needed for success in life while in kindergarten. There will be times when you will be tired, having a bad day or maybe even bored. It happens. Try to not share.

If you can help another who is having a hard time know that he has a friend, help someone out with a difficult part—you will make a friend, your example of kindness will be appreciated by everybody and the ensemble will grow closer and stronger.

Thank you for being a Chorister.