The Buffalo Philharmonic Chorus is an established symphonic
size choir representing a diverse and multigenerational community
membership of dedicated musicians. Bound by their love of singing
and their commitment to the cultural life of Western New York, the
BPC membership represents an impressive array of ages, professions
and musical abilities ranging from gifted students to established
professionals. A devoted core of volunteer members who love to sing
make up the heart of this esteemed ensemble.
Under the direction of their newly appointed conductor Doreen
Rao, the BPC instituted a 2008/09 membership expansion drive
to enhance the musical substance and professional standards of the
chorus for years to come. To that end, the proposed Membership
Plan will institute a broad range of membership categories to
include community, professional and student level memberships.
These include:
Community Membership: a large volunteer force
of committed adults dedicated to the preparation and performance
of choral repertoire in rehearsal and concert. Community
Membership requirements include: (1) the ability to sing in tune
with a resonant tone and expressive phrasing, (2) the ability to
keep time (pulse), count and maintain rhythmic stability and (3)
the ability to maintain a membership commitment that contributes
to the quality, success and reputation of the BPC. Members in this
category are often professional musicians with a demonstrated
background in music performance and teaching who volunteer their
services. This category of membership represents approximately 85%
of the total membership.
Professional Membership: a select core of
professional leadership committed to the standards of professional
performance through singing and teaching in ensemble. Professional
Membership requirements include all of the above, plus: (1) an
academic or demonstrated professional background in voice
performance and musicianship, (2) an interest and aptitude for
educational leadership in ensemble performance and (3) the ability
to mentor, coach and encourage ensemble excellence in the BPC.
Members in this category are required to audition annually, to
show continued musical achievement and excellent attendance
history. Professional members will be offered a modest
compensation for their rehearsal and concert services. This
category of membership represents approximately 10% of the total
membership.
Apprenticeship Members: a gifted group of
young adults, from age 18 (students or working young people of
college age) aspiring to a future in the performing arts.
Apprenticeship Membership requirements include: (1) an entry age
of no less than 18 years old, (2) an identifiable record of
musical study and achievement and (3) selection by the Music
Director and audition committee on the basis of vocal ability and
musical accomplishment. Members in this category are often
students seeking the highest level of musical challenge in
ensemble performance. Some members in this category may apply for
a modest expense stipend following an audition. (A limited number
of apprenticeship expense stipends are available for those who
qualify vocally and musically for professional membership status.)
This category of membership represents approximately 5% of the
total membership. |
