How large is the Indianapolis Arts Chorale?
Post-COVID, the IAC is intentionally being flexible regarding our size. There are so many who have been on our roster for years, even decades, who find themselves at a crossroads on how they will return to many aspects of their lives. We intend to welcome everyone, returning or new, as they are ready. We will be flexible about the nature of the ensemble while we reestablish our roster.
In the past, the IAC was comprised of approximately 40+ auditioned singers, who represented some of the finest talent in the state. We came from all musical and workplace backgrounds. The IAC is also comprised of volunteers that serve on our Board of Directors, and sometimes are singers themselves! We have numerous others who volunteer in other capacities.
What kind of music does the Indianapolis Arts Chorale sing?
The IAC has earned the praise of many for the quality and variety of its programming and seeks to enrich its programming by performing extensive and varied vocal choral music with renowned composers and soloists. Each season can be vastly different from the last. Some years there are particular themes that connect each of the concerts within the season, while at other times themes work well for single concerts. We have been known to program music from a wide variety of sources, including classical masterworks, Broadway show tunes, contemporary choral works, multicultural choral selections, and everything in between.
When and where does the Indianapolis Arts Chorale rehearse?
The IAC rehearses throughout late August – mid May on Mondays from 7p-9:30p at Meridian Street United Methodist Church (5500 N Meridian St, Indianapolis, IN 46208) unless canceled or changed by the Artistic Director. Additional rehearsals and dress rehearsals may be scheduled by the Artistic Director as deemed necessary. Dress rehearsals for each concert performance typically happen during the week of the concert and are in addition to the regularly scheduled Monday rehearsal. A weekend daytime retreat may also be scheduled early in any given concert cycle. It is highly recommended that all singers make arrangements to attend all or part of the rehearsals.
How often and where does the Indianapolis Arts Chorale perform?
Historically, the IAC would typically perform three concerts per season, often in October/November, February/March, and May/June. Our subscription concerts have been at many fine venues around central Indiana, including our rehearsal home of Meridian St. United Methodist Church, Indiana Landmarks Center, Indiana Historical Society, Basile Opera Center, Sanctuary on Penn, and several additional area churches, such as St. Mark’s United Methodist. Our annual fundraiser Cabaret features IAC singers in solos and small ensembles as well. For this season, as part of our “Post-COVID Reentry Plans,” we are planning two performances.
Pre-COVID, we have been honored to be the chorus-in-residence for several years to perform Handel’s Messiah Singalong event alongside the Indianapolis Chamber Orchestra at Indiana Landmarks Center. Additionally, we perform at various community and outreach functions as the opportunities present themselves. In our recent memory, we have performed for Penrod Arts Fair, Landmarks Center’s The Holly and the Ivy, WFYI’s Spirited Chase, Jewish Community Center, Indiana City Brewery, and Festival of Faiths. In our distant past, we have performed for the RCA Tennis Championships, Habitat for Humanity, Indy Parks Summer Concert Series, and at the Indianapolis Arts Garden.
What is the financial commitment as a member of the Indianapolis Arts Chorale?
All singers are expected to make a financial contribution to the IAC. These contributions help fund the general operating expenses of the IAC and are collected by the VP of Chorale Membership or paid online on the IAC website. Currently, the expected financial contribution made by all IAC members is $120, paid within 30 days of the second IAC rehearsal and is non-refundable. Until dues are paid, singers will only be granted “guest access” to sheet music and some ChoralOrg resources. Please consult with your tax advisor to determine any impact this financial contribution may have on your tax filing. From time to time, additional fees for specific performance attire, music, or other purposes may arise. Attempts are made to minimize these fees, so as not to put a financial burden on singers. These fees would be collected by the VP of Chorale Membership. The IAC recognizes that singers come from different financial circumstances. Any singer, for whom the payment of dues and/or fees may constitute a financial burden, is encouraged to work out an extended payment plan or request a waiver of such payment with the IAC President or VP of Chorale Membership. Any such extension or waiver shall be kept strictly confidential. The VP of Chorale Membership is obligated to notify the Board of Directors of any singer who has not paid dues within the above described timeframe and has not worked out an extended payment plan or requested a waiver.
When are auditions held?
Singers are expected to complete a successful audition prior to becoming a performing member of the IAC. Auditions are held by the Artistic Director 1-2 times a year and, on occasion, by request during the rest of the year.
What should I prepare for my audition?
Please prepare a short solo (a cappella) appropriate for your voice part and expect a bit of vocalizing so that our Artistic Director can gain a sense of your individual skills and to determine your appropriate voice part (including division split) within the larger ensemble.
When will I find out if I have been selected for the Indianapolis Arts Chorale?
You can expect an email from our Artistic Director within 1-2 days of completing your audition. No auditionee will be given the status at the conclusion of their audition.