As It Is Written, So It Shall Be

"Clear agreements often prevent small disagreements from becoming big ones."
                                                                                -Harvey Mackay

As choral directors, it's important for our choristers to know what our expectations are. Within a rehearsal environment, we communicate artistic expectations as eloquently as we can, and hope that our musical vision is adequately relayed to the choristers. But beyond the parameters of artistic discourse, we have many other expectations that often go unspoken- that is, until they're violated. At those times, relationships can really become strained simply because expectations were not clearly stated at the outset. Although it requires a substantial amount of foresight and administrative work on the front end, creating written agreements ensures mutual understanding as we work toward a common goal.

Many choral directors shy away from this kind of procedure, fearing that it will make them look overly controlling or dictatorial. But a written agreement outlining mutual expectations serves both parties; in a very real sense, it empowers individual choristers because it encourages and enables them to meet a designated standard- ideally, one that they themselves helped create. A written agreement also serves the ensemble, as it ensures the integrity of the whole by holding all parties to the same criteria.

Here, then, are a few steps to consider when creating written agreements with your choristers.

1. START WITH THE SCHEDULE. 

The schedule represents the most basic level of participation. No one can participate without being present. At the professional or semi-professional level, agreements need to be personalized to take into consideration the projected scheduling conflicts of individual choristers. This shows the individual singer that you're paying attention to the reality of his or her situation; it also shows that that singer's absence is noticed.

For amateur choirs, a written notice of individual chorister's projected absences on a per-semester basis can be extremely helpful for both the chorister and the director. If the semester culminates in a major performance, the director (and the ensemble) may wish to limit the number of allowed absences, and require attendance at dress rehearsals, etc.

2. INCLUDE REHEARSAL ETIQUETTE.

Some new choristers may be sincerely unaware of the importance of starting on time, or may not know who to contact if they're running late. They may think nothing of having their smartphones out during rehearsal (or even performance!). They may not be aware that you expect them to use the restroom during scheduled breaks. All of these considerations, which can be disruptive to the productive flow of your rehearsal, cam be addressed in written chorister agreements.

3. PLAN PERFORMANCE DRESS.

It's never a good idea to surprise your choristers with their required performance dress code right before a concert. Providing them with the information about the necessary dress at the top of the semester gives them time to acquire the items needed, rather than having to scramblie to find the items at the last minute. This is especially important if your choristers need to order something specific. Clarity is key when it comes to performance dress; no longer does saying "black dress top" mean the same to everyone. We suggest using verbiage that is extremely specific, and giving your choristers plenty of time to find something that fits the bill. Approximately a month out from performance time, have a "Performance Dress Check" to ensure that every article of clothing is in accordance with your written agreement. Choristers will match on stage, and it will add to the professionalism of your group.

4. OBTAIN A MEDIA RELEASE.

Sound files, video clips, and social media posts can be shared at light speed. In our blog post Strategic and Shameless Self-Promotion we discuss the importance of your choir/organization's use of social media outlets to promote your group and gain popularity. However, you must have the permission of everyone that you post in a picture on your site or on social media. Also, if your choir sells recordings, you want to be sure that every chorister releases their right to the recording or video, and understands that they will not be personally gaining profit from the media. Written permission from your chorister to use a picture, video, or audio recording of their likeness for the benefit of your choir ensures that they understand this vital part of your vision.

Written agreements vary in degrees of complexity. More experienced choral directors, and those working with professional ensembles, will likely want to incorporate more concerns and provide more explicit language in their agreements. However, the benefits of communicating clear expectations are inarguable, regardless of your choir's size or level of expertise.