Feb 2022 

Unfortunately, the recent Omicron wave sent us back online for the month of January. However, we have started rehearsing in person again since February 9th, 2022. Our Covid-19 protocols have changed slightly to suit the environment and level of caution required to keep us safe. Currently we are meeting in an even larger venue (the sanctuary at United Churches of Langley). All 50 of our members can participate at each rehearsal. We can run our MERV-13 fan filters for the duration of the rehearsal (they were too loud for the chapel) and so we have modified our rehearsal duration to a full 90 minutes without a break. Otherwise, our previous protocols still stand as they were.

 August 2021-

Please continue to check here to see if there are updates. Also by subscribing to the newsletter you will stay informed of any new developments.

Please know that we are discussing all options that are safe for all and supported by the Health Authority.

Technical Preparations - Virtual Rehearsals

FAQs

Since this season is completely different from what we’ve done in the past, we expect there to be a lot of questions. From the survey we know that many of you will encounter challenges with the technology. We hope to resolve some things for you here. But know that we will have a lot of support in place for you.

MEMBERSHIP

If I don’t participate this season will I lose my place in the choir once a normal season resumes?

We are asking any members who would like to reserve their chair within the choir to register as a non participating member. This is a necessary step to keep our choir functioning.

Are membership fees the same as in previous seasons?

Participating membership fees are $80

Can anyone join in this season?

We will be accepting applications from all. As we do not know at this time about our space, or how much we will be able to work online, these factors will play a part in our placement of members. We are happy to put you on the waiting list.

ZOOM

How does Zoom work? Do I need to download an app?

You can access Zoom meetings through your regular web browser on your computer. When you click the link to the actual meeting you will be taken to the Zoom website where you can enter the meeting. The Zoom website will ask you if you’d prefer to join the meeting through their app. If you choose the app option, it will automatically download it for you in that moment. You can download the app in advance of a meeting by going here: https://zoom.us/download / Click the first option: Zoom Client for Meetings.

For the smoothest experience, I would recommend downloading the app. It is free of charge.

Do I need a webcam?

Strictly speaking, no. In order to participate in rehearsals, you don’t need a webcam. You can still see the others and hear the rehearsal. However, you won’t be seen. The social component of these rehearsals is so important. You will feel more a part of the group if you can be seen. If possible, I would recommend buying a simple webcam to add to your computer. They are not expensive and are easy to set up. Ask us for help. We can make recommendations and walk you through setting it up.

Why do I have to be muted while singing on Zoom?

Unfortunately, with the differing internet and computer processor speeds, we are unable to sing together due to too much lag making it impossible to be in sync. As a result, we will all have to remain muted for the singing portion of the rehearsal while Anita instructs/directs/sings. Instead we will sing along at home but neither Anita nor the rest of the choir can hear each other. We only will hear Anita.

If we can’t sing together or hear each other, then what can we do?

We can still do lots of activities together. We can learn new (and/or familiar music), sing around with one another (with one person muted), sing asynchronous music with everyone unmuted (music that is not meant to “line up” together), listening/learning from recordings, rhythm, body percussion, movement, spoken chorus, theory, ear training, vocal technique, sight singing, games all while “seeing” your fellow choristers face-on and “being” together. We can have unmuted breakout sessions where you can talk with each other and try out
different things.

REPERTOIRE

How many songs will we be doing?

With the different parameters and environment this season, we’re shifting our focus away from goals of learning repertoire and performing and more towards the journey: staying connected, learning, building choral skills and having fun! We are starting out the season with 4 songs from our library. We will play it by ear (no pun intended) and see how that goes.

How will I learn my music without my section around me?

We will try our best to make recordings that allow you to hear all the parts with your part louder in the mix.

Will I get a CD this season?

All audio files will be posted on our Teamsnap application. You will have access to them once you are registered with the choir.

Singing together, in person.

We will follow these recommended guidelines when sining in person:

• Masks must be worn (they also must be well-fitting)

• 6 feet of distance (in each direction) must be maintained between singers (8 is better)

• Air flow/exchange is critical, outdoors is best or indoors with HEPA filtration or determined ACH rates (Air Changes per Hour)

• Hygiene: sanitizing of surfaces, not sharing music etc.

Why don’t we just sing outside?

While this is definitely a much safer option, it also presents challenges: finding an appropriate space, setting up a keyboard with amplification for both keyboard and director, acoustic challenges (it’s still very difficult to hear your fellow choristers because you must still be distanced and sound doesn’t bounce back at you without walls), weather reliability.