This page provides a summary of the basic responsibilities expected of members of Oregon Festival Choirs. Each choir family receives the official family handbook to keep at home as a family resource. To view the complete Family Handbook with detailed information on Programs & Policies; Tuition, Tour & Uniform; and the Season Calendar as pdfs, click the links below:

Programs & Policies
Tuition, Tour, & Uniform

Membership: Choir provides a wonderful opportunity to learn and grow, with experiences the chorister will carry throughout life. This includes learning about commitment and responsibility. Membership in this very special group should not be taken lightly. Enrollment in OFC is for the season that begins in September and concludes with the final activity in late Spring/early Summer. Every chorister is expected to remain active and committed to the program for the entire season, which includes participation in tour. As with many choirs, OFC makes budgetary decisions according to enrollment numbers. For this reason, OFC cannot refund choir tuition for choristers who do not fulfill their season commitment.

Performances: Sharing music with others is an exciting part of the choral experience. In addition to the major performances listed in the Season Calendar, other performing opportunities, including school assemblies, arise during the year. Sufficient notice will be provided regarding date/time/and location of these performances.

Attendance: Choral music making is a group activity. Each member of the Choir is essential to the rehearsal and performance experience. Therefore, attendance is crucial at all rehearsals and performances. Choristers should arrive 10 minutes before scheduled starting time to check-in and prepare for beginning of rehearsal. Be sure to visit restroom as needed before this time.

Absence Policy: Every chorister is expected to attend all rehearsals and performances. However, under the following conditions, a limited number of absences are permitted per term:

• One excused absence, arranged in advance with the conductor (i.e. family commitment, school performance, etc.)
• Two unexcused absences, (i.e. illness, transportation problems, etc.)
• Beyond 3 absences, it will be at the conductor’s discretion whether or not the chorister will be permitted to perform with the Choir following absences. Excessive absences jeopardize the chorister’s continuation with the Choir.

Personal practice outside of rehearsal: The best experience for each chorister and the Choir as a whole is only possible when each member has learned the music. Choristers are responsible for spending adequate time in personal practice to accomplish this. OFC provides daily practice timecards to assist choristers with learning their music. Additional help is available, by request, in the form of study tapes and extra instruction.

Personal conduct: Membership in Oregon Festival Choirs is a privilege and an honor. The attitude and behavior of each chorister reflects on the Choir as a whole. The following conduct priorities set the tone for the choir experience:

• Positive attitude
• Focus in rehearsal
• Cooperation and responsiveness to music staff
• Respect for others, demonstrating courtesy, kindness, and generosity in words and actions
• Hard work for the good of the choir

Conduct that works against these priorities is not appropriate and will result in a private conference with the conductor. Subsequent failure to correct behavior may result in dismissal from choir.