Bringing choral music to the
heart of Tempe, AZ
TEMPE COMMUNITY CHORUS MISSION STATEMENT
The Tempe Community Chorus, an adult non-profit organization, is dedicated to the performance of varied, mixed-voice music for the benefit, education, and enjoyment of its members and the surrounding communities.
The Tempe Community Chorus (TCC) provides a recreational resource for adult citizens of Tempe and surrounding communities who enjoy singing mixed-part choral music. The Chorus also provides the community with a quality vocal performance group consisting entirely of volunteers. The Chorus functions under the following statements and policies.
1. Cultural Diversity Statement: It is the intent of the Tempe Community Chorus to reflect the cultural diversity of the community it serves on its Board of Directors and in its singer membership. Efforts to achieve that goal are a continuing priority. Further, all advertisements and recruiting appeals will be published in both newspapers and in weekly arts publications, and will continue to stress the non-discriminatory policies of the Tempe Community Chorus.
2. Sexual Harassment Policy: The Tempe Community Chorus will not tolerate the sexual harassment of any member. Sexual harassment is defined as unwelcome and repeated suggestions, comments, stories or touching of a sexual nature which create an uncomfortable environment for participating in our publicly stated purpose. Instances of harassment should be reported to any board member. Any Chorus member who engages in sexual harassment shall have his/her membership terminated.
3. Membership: Membership is open to adults 18 years old or older, in August and January of each year for three weeks to any adult with prior choral experience and an ability to read music. No auditions are required, however, each voice will be evaluated by the Director to determine proper placement in the Chorus. Members who are found to have problems singing their parts will be privately counseled and assisted to the greatest extent feasible. If noticeable improvement is not apparent, the Director and/or the President will approach the member with an offer to assist the TCC in a non-singing role. In order to maintain Tempe Community Services support, at least 51% (fifty-one percent) of the Chorus must be Tempe residents. For this reason, new members from other communities may be restricted, however, no person shall be denied membership on the basis of race, religion, ethnic heritage or sex.
4. Dues: Expenses of the Chorus are partially funded by grants received from the Tempe Municipal Arts Commission, the Arizona Commission on the Arts, private donations and membership fees. The Board of Directors establishes the membership fee for each season. No member or officer shall personally benefit from any funds (either fees or donations) collected by the Chorus.
5. Organization: The Tempe Community Chorus is a non-profit, tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organization governed by an elected Board of Directors. Openings on the board are open to members of the chorus. Elections are held yearly in January.
6. Attendance: It is expected that all members will make a commitment to attend all rehearsals and performances. The two rehearsals prior to a performance are especially important. Attendance at the rehearsal immediately preceding a concert is required. Two weeks written notification of absence must be given to a Board member. A member with three (3) consecutive absences without notification will be asked to return TCC music to the Music Archives.
7. Rehearsals: Chorus rehearsals are held weekly on Monday evenings, 7-9 P.M. The quality of the performance depends on each member's attendance and attitude toward the rehearsal. Our primary purpose is to enjoy singing, both in rehearsals and performances. Members need to be tolerant and flexible because of the diversity of musical abilities in other members. The formation of small groups is encouraged. The group determines music, accompanist, rehearsal place, and time. TCC is not responsible for small group expenses.
8. Music: The TCC was founded with the intention of singing light, mixed-part secular, choral music. The Director and the Music Selection Committee will select music. Members are encouraged to make their views known either verbally, in writing, or joining the committee. Music is the property of TCC. Members will be assigned numbered music after paying membership fee. Music is to be returned at the end of each session.
9. Performances: Two formal concerts will be scheduled each year: one during the December holiday season and one in the spring. The Director and Board of Directors will evaluate requests for additional performances. Such factors as rehearsal time, audience, logistics (risers, piano, locations, etc.), type of event, length of the performance, and type of music will be considered. If it is felt that the Chorus would be prepared, and that the event would enhance the purpose of the organization, the members will be asked to vote regarding their willingness and ability to participate. Depending on the number of members in the chorus, accepting a performance will require sufficient willing members to produce a quality sound.
10. Communication: Information concerning chorus business is delivered by two methods. "News Notes" is an informal publication issued at various times during each season. Postcards are mailed to members at the beginning of the fall season with information of location and membership fee. E-mail is used occasionally as a member for the Community Outreach food collections, important reminders, and collection of music. E-mail should only be used for chorus business.
11. Announcements: Announcements should pertain to chorus business only. The president of the board will make necessary verbal announcements at weekly rehearsals. Members may request an announcement through the president if it concerns the chorus. Flyers containing information not relating directly to the chorus may be placed on a stand at the entrance to the rehearsal hall.
The Tempe Community Chorus is partially supported by the City of Tempe and the Arizona Commission on the Arts with funding from the State of Arizona.
