FAQ

VOICES Frequently Asked Questions

Philosophy

What is the philosophy of VOICES? VOICES is committed to learning and singing songs from diverse choral traditions in the belief that doing so contributes to the growth of individual members and to racial and cultural harmony within the Ithaca community.

Culture

What is the culture/atmosphere of the chorus? Here are comments from current chorus members:

- - We take our music seriously but not ourselves. We sing with humility and joy.
  - We find pure joy in singing together.
  - I love learning and singing music from different cultures. Singing in other languages broadens my horizon—new rhythms, new sounds, and a gentle challenge.
  - It’s great how much fun and laughter there is as we learn to make beautiful music.
  - Ross Mizrahi is a fabulous director who is not only a wonderful teacher and a very talented musician but also makes us laugh.
  - I love to share the joy of singing with my chorus-mates and with the community at concert time.
  - When you get together with people to sing on a regular basis, you become part of a musical family.

Repertoire

What music does VOICES sing? Selections for the current semester are listed with example performances here: https://acithaca.org/groups/voices/music/ The typical repertoire includes music from multiple countries and in multiple languages representing different cultures.

Multicultural Music

Why multicultural music? Embracing multicultural helps you to be a more well-rounded musician and a more empathetic global citizen. Different cultures bring unique musical elements, such as scales and rhythms, enriching your musical repertoire and expanding your vocal techniques and adaptability. Music is a universal language. Singing songs from various cultures can bring people together, creating a sense of community and shared joy.

Auditions

Is there an audition to sing with VOICES? There are no auditions or requirements for joining VOICES. We have members of all different experience levels, from music instructors to others just discovering an interest in choral singing. We have skilled music readers and those who learn by ear. Careful, skillful direction and the availability of practice tracks help all to succeed.

Music Cost

Do I have to buy my music? Loan copies of all music are provided as part of your registration fee. Music is returned after the closing concert.

Schedule

What is the overall chorus schedule? We operate on a fall and spring semester basis. The fall semester starts in early September and ends in mid-December. The spring semester starts late January and ends mid-May.

Rehearsals

When and where are rehearsals? We meet Monday nights 7:00-8:45 pm on the second floor of the Annex of the First Unitarian Society of Ithaca, 208 E. Buffalo Street, Ithaca, NY. There is an additional evening concert rehearsal, typically the Friday night before the concert, at the concert venue and a short rehearsal immediately before the concert.

Attendance

What is the attendance policy? We do not take attendance or have minimum participation requirements. That said, we take on ten or more pieces each semester, some of which can be challenging. Regular attendance makes for a much more satisfying and productive experience, for you and the entire chorus.

Performances

What performances are there this year? Our closing concert is scheduled for 3:00 pm May 17, 2025, at the First Baptist Church in Ithaca. We also have appearances on dates to be determined in Sunday services at the First Unitarian Society and First Baptist Church. These appearances are in thanks for the congregations’ logistical support of the chorus.

Concert Expectations

Are singers required to sing in all concerts and appearances? There is no formal requirement for participating in the closing concert or church appearances, but we hope as many participate as are able to share the great music we create together.

Performance Dress Code

What is the dress code for performances? We ask that members dress in all black, head-to-toe, in clothes of their choosing. VOICES scarves are provided for each performance.

Socializing

How do singers get to know each other? We take a brief break during each rehearsal and encourage members to get to know each other.

Finances

Who pays for VOICES? Our expenses are offset by member fees, donations from individuals and limited grants and corporate sponsorships gained through our parent organization Affiliated Choruses of Ithaca. Our primary expenses are director and accompanist salaries, rent, music, and concert supplies.

Administration

Who “runs” VOICES? VOICES is volunteer driven. A Steering Committee sets overall direction and supervises our Music Director and takes the lead in making things happen. There are many volunteer roles to fill throughout the semester which will be conveyed at rehearsals and through our newsletter.

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