Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Harmony Northwest Chorus

Q: Who is eligible to sing with your chorus?  
A: Women who love to sing and perform.

Q: What IS your style of singing?  
A: We sing four-part harmony, a cappella, in the barbershop style (which simply means "very close harmony") Sometimes when we sing we get “goosebumps” from the wonderful vibrations set up by the chords we sing. Our group performs a variety of music from the 1920s up to the 1990s which includes gospel, swing, soft-rock, blues and favorite tunes from different music styles.

Q: Do I have to be an accomplished singer?  
A: No, If you can carry a tune, match pitches and harmonize. We'll work with you to teach you the rest.

Q: Do I have to know how to read music?  
A: No, several of our members do not read music.  We have learning tracks on CDs and our members and director will help you learn.

Q: Do I need to sing with vibrato?  
A: No, our style of music doesn't use vibrato.

Q: What if I have too much vibrato?  
A: Our vocal exercises will help you learn how to control it.

Q: I've always been told I couldn't sing because my voice isn't "high" like a female voice should be.  
A: Boy, do we have a place for you! Our style of singing utilizes the lower female voice ranges... in fact, we LOVE them!

Q: Where do your members come from?   A: Our members come from Northwest Washington from Snohomish to Whatcom county. Our member’s ages? From 14 and up…

Q: Do I have to sing in a quartet?  
A: No, there is no requirement to sing in a quartet, but you will have an opportunity to try singing in a quartet. It is up to you…

Q: When do you rehearse?  
A: Every Monday from 7:00 - 9:30 p.m.

Q: Where do you rehearse?  
A: At the Mount Vernon Community Center, 1401 Cleveland Avenue, on the corner of Cleveland and Hazel

Q: When do you perform?  
A: We perform for many local organizations, various retirement or nursing homes, private parties, etc.  We also usually present an annual show, and a Christmas Concert. We also attend an annual Regional Chorus Competition.

Q: What about costumes?  
A: Most costume costs are paid for as a portion of your monthly dues.

Q: What does it cost to be a member of the chorus?  
A: Our chorus has monthly dues of $25. There is an initial fee of $105 plus your first month’s dues to get you started with our group.  Members 25 years of age and younger pay 1/2 dues and 1/2 of the initial fee. Individual members do have to “pay their own way” to Regional competitions and Regional events. It is not a requirement for members to attend competitions and performances. BUT we do strongly encourage our members to try to attend these chances for education and opportunities to help them polish their skills as performers.

Q: Do I have to audition to become a member?  
A: Yes; however, we make it as "gentle" as possible and help you through the process. You do not have to sing a solo. After you have sung with us at rehearsals for a few weeks we will ask you to try singing with a small group just to see that you are capable of carrying your part... and, no, you do not sing in front of the whole chorus.

Q: What else can you tell me about Sweet Adelines, Int'l?  
A: Our world-wide organization is made up of over 600 choruses comprised of approximately 27,000 women around the world. The educational programs are unsurpassed and focus on both the singing and administrative angles of membership. The personal growth opportunities are boundless (many of our members will gladly tell you of their own experiences). You may also choose to get involved with Regional leadership, which could provide the opportunity to being involved at the International level.

Q: Do you ever get together with other choruses?  
A: Yes. The world-wide "network" is divided into "Regions". Each Region has periodic educational seminars and annual competitions. The chorus and quartet winners of each Region then compete against each other at the International Convention and Competition, which is held annually in different parts of the world (WOW, what a wonderful experience that is). In October of 2010 the International Competition is being held in SEATTLE! Our Region also has periodic weekend-long "Area Schools" that provide special "coaching" and learning experiences.

Q: What if I can’t sing? Can I still be involved in Harmony Northwest Chorus?  
A: Yes, We are always looking for volunteers to help with the production of our concerts and shows, Volunteer opportunities exist in set building, stage direction, lighting, costume design and production. We also accept monetary donations as a 501(c) (3) non profit organization.

Q: What should I do if I'd like to learn more?  
A: Come visit a rehearsal (we’ll have you singing with us right away) and see if what we do is something that might interest you. We're a very friendly, supportive group of gals and truly enjoy sharing our "hobby" with others. We'd love to see you, and feel free to bring a friend.

Q: Can I visit one of your rehearsals?  
A: Absolutely. Our rehearsals are always open to visitors. Email us for more information: contact@harmonynorthwest.org.