Q: What is Harmony Showcase Chorus?
A: Harmony Showcase Chorus is a women’s chorus serving the needs of female singers in Palmdale, Lancaster and the surrounding communities in the Antelope Valley. The organization was founded nearly 50 years ago by a group of women who had the desire to join their voices with the voices of others to spread harmony and goodwill throughout the world.
Q: What is the mission of the Harmony Showcase Chorus?
A: To create an atmosphere that is fun, creative and exciting. While striving for excellence in the performance of 4-part A Cappella Harmony they aim to deliver a versatile, energized performance that is entertaining for all.
Q: Who are the members of the organization?
A: Harmony Showcase Chorus is an performing and educational organization that is part of Sweet Adelines International. We have an open-door policy, respectful of diversity and welcoming to all female singers in Southern California who have a love of choral music and wish to audition.
Q: What does a typical rehearsal look like?
A: Between 7-9:30 members invest time learing music, honing their vocal skills as they improve their singing skills, they share laughter and camaraderie and create musical packages to perform during shows and for other performance request.
Q: What is the difference between the barbershop style and other styles of singing?
A: Briefly in Barbershop the melody is found in the second voice, the tenor sings the natural melody above the bass (lowest voice) sings the root/fifth of the chord and the baritone sings the remaining note. Balance of sound is similar to an orchestra where the lowest note is the broadest and you have a pyramid effect as you move up the parts in the chord. In choral singing you have a more cylindrical sound with each part having equal weight. Ultimately creating a fifth note or overtone is the goal by means of tuning. Read more here
Q: How did Sweet Adelines get started?
A: Read about the history of Sweet Adelines International by – clicking here
Q: What if I can’t make a performance?
A: The good news is that most of our singers were successful long before they aligned themselves with our chorus, and from time to time they will have to miss appearances.
Q: What kind of commitment does the Harmony Showcase Chorus require?
A: While the quality of the chorus depends to a certain extent on the continuity of the individuals that make it up, we understand there may be many things in your life more important than the Harmony Showcase Chorus. We do ask you to make a commitment to us, and that we make the same commitment to you, but you should not feel that you have to be able to make every single appearance to be one of us.
Q: How do I join Harmony Showcase Chorus?
A: Auditions are scheduled at after attending your second rehearsal. For additional information, send an email to membership@harmonyshowcase.com
Q: Do you have to read music to be a singing member?
A: Singing members do not have to read music to join Harmony Showcase Chorus. The chorus asks that all members have a commitment to the mission of the organization and the desire to perform.
Q: How do chorus members learn their music?
A: Members are given a learning audio with their part along with the sheet music. They are also encourage to ask for additional help if they have any question.
Q: Can I be added to the mailing list?
A: To be added to the Harmony Showcase Chorus mailing list, send an email to subscribe@harmonyshowcase.com
Q: Will the Harmony Showcase Chorus sing for me or my organization?
A: Harmony Showcase Chorus is open to invitations to sing for audiences around the world. As a volunteer chorus our available performance time is limited. For information on booking the full chorus or a quartet, send an email to bookings@harmonyshowcase.com
Q: Does Harmony Showcase Chorus tour?
A: In 2010, Harmony Showcase Chorus will be available to perform world-wide when afforded the invitation. As an all volunteer chorus, the Chorus has limited financial resources to make such ventures.
Q: Are the singers professionals?
A: All of the singers in Harmony Showcase Chorus are volunteers and receive no compensation for their participation in the chorus. The members come from a variety of professions and walks of life.
Q: Are the singers paid to perform?
A: All of the singers in Harmony Showcase Chorus are volunteers and receive no individual payment for their participation.
Q: How long has Harmony Showcase Chorus been in existence?
A: The first public meeting of this ensemble took place over 40 years ago in Lancaster. We are blessed to have one of the charter members of that chorus still singing with us today.
Q: What repertoire does the chorus perform?
A: The chorus is committed to performing a wide range of musical styles at a very high level.
Q: How often are rehearsals held?
A: Meetings are held every Tuesday evening of the month, from 7:00pm to 10:00 PM at the Angel Bingo Hall in Palmdale. The address and a map can be found on the “Rehearsals” page of this website.
Q: What costs are associated with membership?
A: Running a top notch musical organization requires a great deal of planning, time and other resources. Member dues are usually billed annually, but “pay as you go” options are available. Regular dues (for adults) are $33 per month—this includes your chapter, Regional and International dues. This works out to <$10 per meeting for adults. Women/girls ages 25 and under pay 1/2 the dues. The dues structure is subject to change.
