THE OCC CHORISTERS & PARENTS HANDBOOK 2020-2021 - Ottawa Children's Choir
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THE OCC
CHORISTERS & PARENTS HANDBOOK
2020-2021
Contact information:
151 Laurier Ave East
Ottawa, ON K1N 6N8
info@ottawachildrenschoir.ca
613-233-4440
www.ottawachildrenschoir.ca
Registered Charity Number is 89242 3922 RR0001
Jamie Loback Allison Prowse Jennifer Berntson
Ar2s2c Director Choir Conductor Choir Conductor
Choir Conductor Viva Choir & Concert Choir Prima Choir
Chamber Choir & Boys’ Choir
COVID -19 Note to Families
This choral handbook represents information during a normal choral year. As
the OCC is actively seeking and implementing newly found best practices due
to the Covid-19 pandemic, some information of the handbook is likely subject to
change in order to better serve our choral families.
All families will be updated on the 2020-2021 choral season in late August. The
list below represents some of the areas to be addressed.
Areas to be covered
1. Tuition Fees
2. Payment structure
3. Drop out / Refund deadline
4. Uniforms
5. Choir Start dates - late September, early October
6. Choir Times - possible small shifts
7. Cancellation of Performance tours
8. Public concerts
9. Closed rehearsals
10. Zoom rehearsals - each choir will have their own reusable Zoom link for all online
rehearsals. These rehearsals will be recorded for archival purposes
*Remember to check our website and social media for updates*
2
Table of Contents
COVID-19 Note to Families 2
Getting to Know us 4 – 10
Welcome 4
Acknowledgements 5
Vision & Mission 6
A Brief History 7
Past Choral Highlights 8
Code of Conduct 9
Curricula 10
Our Community 11 – 16
Conductors 11
Communication 13
Choir Managers 2020-2021 13
Volunteers 14
Board of Directors 14
Membership in The Corporation 15
Alumni 16
Office Administration 16
Choir Information 17-28
Tuition Fees 17
Rehearsals 17
Parents at Rehearsals 18
Parking 18
Transportation 20
Rehearsal Cancellations 20
Chorister Attendance 20
Chorister Expectations 21
Annual Re-Auditions 21
Performances & Recordings 22
Recording & Imaging 22
Audience Etiquette 22
Special Projects 24
Uniforms 24
Music Binder 27
28
Fundraising & Donations 29
3
WELCOME The Choir exists to enrich artistically the lives of our choristers, families and the community. 2020-2021 promises to be an especially rewarding year for all of our new and returning choristers as we bridge into a new digital world. The Choir offers an instructional music program emphasizing musicianship and vocal training through choral music experience. The organization consists of five separate but interlinked choirs: Prima (for children ages 6 and 7), Viva (beginner), Concert (intermediate), Chamber (advanced) and Boys’ (where boys can sing through their change of voice). Choristers begin their training in the Prima, Viva or Concert Choir and progress through to the more demanding repertoire of the Chamber Choir. Rehearsals and performances of choral music form the foundation of instruction. We hope this handbook provides you with the information you need, and answers any questions you may have about the Ottawa Children's Choir. We want to make this year the best it can be for your child. 4
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS We gratefully acknowledge the support of: 5
OUR VISION & OUR MISSION
The Ottawa Children's Choir is devoted to artistic excellence,
community connection and above all, the joy of singing.
The OCC supports this vision by:
> Striving for choral excellence through the provision of professional choral
training for children who have demonstrated musical aptitude
> Promoting the advancement of children’s education in, and knowledge
and appreciation of, choral music
> Providing annual educational outreach initiatives
> Performing regularly within the National Capital Region, as well as
nationally and internationally
> Studying and performing a wide variety of repertoire, with a particular
emphasis on the works of Canadian composers
6
A BRIEF HISTORY
The OCC was originally known as the Ottawa Board of Education Central Choir and was
created in 1958 by John G. Sutherland. It began as a workshop choir for a music educators’
workshop conference, and swiftly developed into the enrichment program it continues to be
today.
Originally one group of 70 singers, the programme has expanded over the years and
currently consists of five levels of training. In 1987, the Concert Choir was formed, and it
serves as the training choir for the most advanced group, now known as the Chamber
Choir. In 2001, the Viva Choir was added as a second training choir.
In 1998, the 40th Anniversary year, the Choir was incorporated as a not-for-profit
charitable organization with a Board of Directors. In 2003 the name was changed to the
Ottawa Children’s Choir to better reflect the community we serve.
Our ensembles now include Boys’ Choir for boys with changed or unchanged voices and
Prima Choir, an entry-level training choir for younger children.
The Choir has flourished under the direction of a succession of distinguished musicians:
2017 - present Jennifer Berntson Prima Choir
2016 - present Jamie Loback Boys’ Choir
2015 - present Jamie Loback Chamber Choir
2005 -present Allison Prowse Concert and Viva Choirs
2008 -2015 Jackie Hawley Chamber Choir
2002 - 2007 Robert Filion Chamber Choir
1988 - 2005 Yvonne Navratil Concert and Viva Choirs
1987 - 1988 Nancy Tanguay Concert Choir
1979 - 2002 Barbara Clark Central Choir/Chamber Choir
1967 - 1979 Arnold Earl OBE Central Choir
1958 - 1967 John Gunn Sutherland Founder – Conductor
7
PAST CHORAL HIGHLIGHTS
Performances
> Vimy Gala Performance, Ottawa, 2019
> John Rutter, Music & Beyond, 2018
> 100th Anniversary Ceremony to commemorate the Battle of Vimy Ridge in Vimy,
France
> National Arts Centre’s Ribbon-cutting ceremony, 2017
> National Art Gallery re-opening ceremony, 2017
> National Arts Centre 40th Anniversary 2010 National Arts Centre Orchestra, Ottawa
Symphony Orchestra, Ottawa Choral Society,
> Canada Day on Parliament Hill
> Annual National Remembrance Day Service at the National War Memorial
> Annual Christmas and Spring concerts
> National Arts Centre performances: Star Wars 2016, R. Murray Schafer's 75th Birthday
Celebration, The Nutcracker Suite, Opera Lyra "Otello", Governor General Performing
Arts Award, Young People's Concerts, St. Matthew's Passion, L'Enfance du Christ,
Midsummer Night's Dream
> Annual Battle of the Atlantic commemorative service at the National War Memorial
> Governor General's Levee
> City of Ottawa, Mayor's Annual Christmas Celebration
> Ceremony of Lights on Parliament Hill
> Lansdowne Tree-Lighting Ceremony
> Music & Beyond, Carmina Burana National Arts Centre Orchestra, Royal Winnipeg
Ballet, Ottawa Symphony Orchestra, Choeur Classique de l'Outaouais, Ottawa Choral
Society
> 40th Anniversary Canadian Centennial Choir
> Unisong National Arts Centre - Host Choir - Canada Day
> Kaleid on the Road - Rajaton 2010
> Choirs Hosted: Spivey Hall Children's Choir (Georgia); Alabama Boys Choir; Prague
Philharmonic Choir; Winnipeg Mennonite Children's Choir; Juventus Vocalis
(Germany); Boni Pueri Boys Choir (Czech Republic), Inuksuk Drum Dancers and
Iqaluit Fiddlers.
> municipal and federal events, conferences, church services, Ottawa Music Festival
> local, Canadian and international service and fundraising
Tours
> Montreal Tour, 2019 (Chamber Choir)
> Eastern Canada Tour, 2018 (Chamber Choir and Boys’ Choir)
> Vimy, France, 2017 (Chamber Choir)
> Kingston 2017 – It takes a Village (Concert Choir)
8
> Iqualuit, Nunavut 2015 (Chamber Choir)
> Saugeen Shores 2012 (Chamber Choir)
> Kingston 2012 - Friends and Neighbours (Concert Choir)
> St. John's, Newfoundland Festival 500 2009 (Chamber Choir)
> Vancouver & Victoria BC ChorPodium 2006 (Chamber Choir)
> International Youth and Music Festival, Vienna 2004 (Chamber Choir)
> Choir Exchange - Winnipeg Mennonite Children's Choir 2003
> Toronto 2002 (Chamber Choir)
> International Conductor's Symposium of Sir David Wilcox 2002 (Chamber Choir)
> Italy 2001 (Chamber Choir)
> Kingston 2001 (Concert Choir)
> Nova Scotia 1998 (Chamber Choir)
> International Eisteddfod in Wales and England 1999
> Japan 1997
> Tuscany International Children's Chorus Festival 1995
> Cornwall 1996 (Concert Choir)
> Ottawa Valley, Kingston, London, Brantford, Chatham, Toronto, Scarborough,
Etobicoke, Peterborough, New Brunswick, Montreal, British Columbia
CODE OF CONDUCT
Members of the Ottawa Children's Choir represent the Choir, the City of Ottawa, and
Canada. Respect for others is highly valued and expected at all times. All ‘Choir
Participants’, i.e. choristers, parents, staff or volunteers, are required to read and abide by
the terms of the OCC Code of Conduct which can be found here.
9
CURRICULA
The Ottawa Children’s Choir provides sequential learning opportunities for vocal and music
education. Musical concepts taught in Prima Choir are carried through into Viva Choir and
Concert Choir and then to the more advanced levels of study in Chamber Choir. Children
have the opportunity to experience their own progress as they master music with greater
vocal facility and a deeper musical understanding. Additional repertoire is introduced
regularly, depending on the unique musical events of the season. These may include
concerts with symphony orchestras, television, radio, and recording opportunities and tours.
The choral literature varies in degree of complexity.
Although ages are given as a guideline for our auditioned
choirs, please be aware that, other than the minimum age
of 8 and the maximum age of 15 for participation in our
auditioned choirs, choristers are not assigned to choirs
based on age. The assessment of vocal ability and
musicianship that our conductors make during the audition
process, along with the amount of experience a chorister
may have, are all factors that go into deciding which of our
choirs is best for children, in order that they can most
easily learn the many expectations and routines of choral
singing, and the musical skills that are being taught. The
primary goal is for the best interests of the children and to
foster a life-long love of and appreciation for music and
singing. Programming and expectations are very different in each of Viva, Concert and
Chamber choirs, and each level offers appropriate challenges and opportunities for learning
to the choristers in it.
Musical concepts remain the same throughout the chorister’s tenure. The complexity of the
repertoire studied increases with time and readiness. Further opportunities for all choristers
exist with the Ottawa Regional Youth Choir in the region once having completed tenure in the
OCC.
*All curricula can be found on the website on each choir’s page*
10CONDUCTORS
Jamie Loback - OCC Artistic Director, Conductor Chamber & Boys’
Choirs
Jamie Loback is a graduate of the University of Ottawa, holding
Bachelor's and Master’s degrees in Music. In addition to his
specialization in choral conducting, Jamie is an accomplished
pianist and educator. Since 2005, Jamie has served as Director of
Music at St. Joseph’s Parish, where he conducts the church’s
three choirs. The 2018-2019 season marks his sixth year as Music
Director of the Ottawa Regional Youth Choir and his seventh year
as Artistic Director of the Capital Chamber Choir. Jamie was
appointed Conductor of the OCC’s Chamber Choir in 2015. In
2016, he initiated the Ottawa Children's Choir: Boys' Choir, to
encourage boys to sing through their change of voice. His most
recent work includes conducting performances of the OCC's
Chamber Choir in the Senate of Canada and in the annual
European Union Christmas Celebration at Notre-Dame Cathedral,
Ottawa, as well as preparing the OCC's new Boys' Choir for
performances in the National Arts Centre's Star Wars concerts. A highlight of this year’s season was
the Chamber Choir’s trip to France to perform at the Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris and at the
ceremonies to commemorate the 100th Anniversary of the Battle of Vimy Ridge in Vimy. He also
recently completed a recording as conductor of the Capital Chamber Choir, whose first album was
released in April 2017.
Allison Prowse -Conductor Concert & Viva Choirs
Allison Prowse is a graduate of Queen's University with a
Bachelor of Arts in Music (Piano Performance), Ms. Prowse has
been a professional accompanist for choral, instrumental and
dance performances for over 25 years and, while teaching full-
time with the school board, was the accompanist for the Viva and
Concert Choirs from 1987-2005, at which point she assumed her
role as Conductor. She has conducted the choral component of
the Ottawa Youth Orchestra's summer school programme and
has collaborated with choral ensembles of all ages and with
organizations at the municipal, federal and international levels,
including the National Arts Centre and with Music and Beyond.
Ms. Prowse (O.C.T.) also holds a Bachelor of Education from
Queen's University with Specialist Qualifications in Special
Education (Speech and Language). As an educator with the
OCDSB for 18 years, Ms. Prowse placed a strong emphasis on
music education both in the classroom and at the school-wide
level, supporting choral and instrumental programmes at the
piano and podium. Ms. Prowse's strong commitment to the joy of
singing within an educational context is met within the excellent and rich history of the OCC.
11Conductor Prima Choir
Jennifer Berntson is a passionate choral artist and music
educator. Inspired by a childhood spent singing with the
Saskatoon Children’s Choir, she has performed with ensembles
across Canada, including the National Youth Choir. Jennifer is
the founding artistic director of Aella Choir, an ensemble intent
on sharing innovative programming and compelling repertoire
for women’s voices. She currently works at First Baptist Church
as the soprano soloist and conductor of the First Baptist
Children’s Choir. Jennifer enjoys sharing her love of music
through her voice and piano studios, working with students of all
ages and levels. Jennifer holds a Bachelor of Music in Voice
from Mount Allison University and a Master of Arts in Music and
Culture from Carleton University where she studied the role of
collective music-making in social movements.
12CHOIR MANAGERS 2020-2021
The Music Conductors and Choir Managers are the key people dedicated to the activities of
the five Choirs. Choir Managers are parent volunteers who act as the liaison between the
GM, board, conductors, choristers and parents. They try to be available on a day-to-day basis
to assist parents and choristers, answer questions, and receive messages regarding
attendance.
Boys’ Choir Manager: Barn-Yen Li
boyschoir@ottawachildrenschoir.ca
Boys' Choir website
Chamber Choir Manager: Beth Nicholson, full team TBD
chambermanager@ottawachildrenschoir.ca
Chamber Choir website
Concert Choir Managers: Merri Legris, Katherine Percival, team TBD
concertchoir@ottawachildrenschoir.ca
Concert Choir website
Viva Choir Managers: To Be Determined
vivamanager@ottawachildrenschoir.ca
Viva Choir website
Prima Choir Manager: Katerina Michalysyn
primachoir@ottawachildrenschoir.ca
To Report Absences: e-mail your child’s Choir Manager if very last-minute text or telephone the office at:
613-233-4440. If no one is available, please leave a message.
COMMUNICATION
We make every effort to keep our choristers and families informed, and rely primarily on e-
mail.
It is very important to please:
> Check e-mail daily for notices.
> Check your child’s binder and knapsack each week for hard copies of notices.
> Check the OCC website www.ottawachildrenschoir.ca for updated schedules and events.
> Inform the Office Administrator & Choir Managers of any changes to e-mail, phone or address.
> Contact your Choir Manager, Board Rep or GM with questions or concerns.
13VOLUNTEERS
The Ottawa Children’s Choir depends heavily on volunteers for its success.
We all want the best for our Choirs, and this cannot be achieved without a large and active
group of volunteers. All parents are asked to complete and return the Volunteer Form that
was included in their acceptance package, indicating their specific interests and talents. If
you are new to the organization, or have never helped with a particular job before, rest
assured that there will always be an experienced volunteer to lead the way on tasks! Our
Volunteer Coordinator or your Board Rep will contact you as need arises. Volunteering is a
great way to meet other parents and community members involved with the OCC.
Some of our volunteer tasks include:
> During regular rehearsals - Assistant Choir Manager, preparing the physical rehearsal space,
marking theory books, handing out and collecting uniforms, working in our music library to sort and
file music, fundraising (additional details below)
> During extra rehearsals - Preparing rehearsal space, providing a snack
> Social - Year-end Party Coordinator, decorations, production of award certificates, ticket sales
> Assisting with Concerts & Technical Rehearsals - Selling advertising in the program, preparing
and editing the program, posters and tickets, picking up flowers, riser set up and take down,
handing out programs prior to the concert, selling tickets at the door, setup and cleanup for any
post-concert receptions.
> Chaperoning Trips and Concerts - When the Choirs perform off-site, we require chaperones to
provide a 1:10 adult to child ratio. Chamber Choir has the greatest number of commitments during
the year, and we request that if your child is in Chamber Choir, you chaperone at least one event
throughout the season.
> Board of Directors - The Board meets once a month, and its function is to provide the
organizational and financial structure necessary to support the organization.
> Special Projects - These vary from year to year and range from helping with one-time concerts
and trips, targeted fundraising, to CD production. See more on fundraising below.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The Board of Directors is the volunteer governing body of the Ottawa Children’s Choir. It is
responsible for the overall management of the Choir, the viability of its finances and the hiring
of the Conductors and the General Manager. The Board is also responsible for ensuring that
the Choir’s legal responsibilities are discharged and that all reasonable measures are taken
to ensure the safety and well-being of choristers, staff and volunteers who participate in Choir
activities. The Board ensures that all OCC volunteers who have direct involvement with the
children are officially screened by the Ottawa Police.
The Board of Directors consists of up to 13 members, up to six of whom are parents of
choristers and represent each of the choirs (Known as Board Reps). The remaining members
14are community representatives. In addition, the three Music Conductors and the General
Manager are non-voting members of the Board.
Board Directors are elected by the voting members of the Choir (i.e. the parents of choristers,
see Membership in Corporation) at the annual general meeting, which usually takes place in
June. Directors are elected for two-year terms, with the exception of the representatives of
the entry-level choirs (Viva and Prima), who are appointed by the Board itself in September if
no viable candidate arrives by the AGM. Vacancies may also be filled by a vote of the Board
members.
The President of the Choir, who is the chair of the Board of Directors and oversees all Choir
operations, is elected at the AGM for a one-year term. Other corporate officers, such as the
Vice-President, Treasurer and Secretary, are voted in officially by Board members at their first
meeting after the AGM.
* Board meetings are open to all parents and guardians. Highlights of each meeting will be forwarded to
Choir parents following each meeting.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2020-2021
Executive Committee
President: Carol Ann Northcott (Parent Rep) president@ottawachildrenschoir.ca
Vice-President: Jane Haycock (Community Rep) vice-president@ottawachildrenschoir.ca
Secretary: Jim Delaney (Parent Rep) webmaster@ottawachildrenschoir.ca
Treasurer: Jane Jiang (Parent Rep) treasurer@ottawachildrenschoir.ca
Directors
Ariane Ryan (Community Rep) ariane@ottawachildrenschoir.ca
Anne Laure Wong (Community Rep) anne.wong@ottawachildrenschoir.ca
Beth Searle (Community Rep) email TBD
Stacey Hickey (Parent Rep) email TBD
*Additional Parent and Community Representative positions available. Inquire with the
president@ottawachildrenschoir.ca*
15MEMBERSHIP IN THE CORPORATION
Parents and guardians of
choristers are automatically
voting members of the Choir,
which entitles them to vote at
the annual general meeting
(typically held in June). Each
member is strongly encouraged
to participate in the activities of
the organization to ensure its
success and continuity.
ALUMNI
The Choir encourages its former members to stay in touch and to follow the Choir’s activities.
All outgoing choir members will automatically be added to the OCC Alumni list unless the
Office Administrator is contacted requesting otherwise. Contact information enables us to
invite Alumni to share in anniversary and other special celebrations. Please visit our website
or contact our Alumni representative at alumni@ottawachildrenschoir.ca.
OFFICE ADMINISTRATION
The OCC General Manager, Emili Losier, is responsible for the administration of the Choir
and provides a central liaison figure for choristers, parents, conductors, the Board of
Directors and St. Joseph’s Parish and Sanctuary.
If you have any administrative or financial questions, please contact our General Manager
151 Laurier Ave East
Ottawa, ON K1N 6N8
info@ottawachildrenschoir.ca
613-233-4440
Individual problems or concerns regarding the music program should be discussed with the
Music Conductor, Choir Manager, Board Rep and/or General Manager.
16TUITION FEES Full year tuition is paid according to a fee schedule with the last payment in December. [We are considering the schedule in light of Covid-19. More details in late August] A full refund of fees LESS NON-REFUNDABLE DEPOSIT ($50) is available until October 15, 2020, and upon the return of all Choir property (music and uniforms) issued. [We are considering the refund schedule in light of Covid-19. More details in late August] No refunds are available after that date. Financial assistance in the form of a Tuition Scholarship is available and we encourage you to fill in this application if you are in need. REHEARSALS Choristers are expected to arrive 15 minutes before rehearsal start time to check in and organize their rehearsal music. This may require your child to leave their day program early. In accordance with the Private Music Teacher & the School Administration Act, Section 6, sub-section 2: "A child is excused from attendance at school, if he/she is absent from the school for the purpose of receiving instruction in music and the period of absence does not exceed one half-day in any week." All regular in-person rehearsals take place at St. Joseph’s Parish, 174 Wilbrod Street (see map below). 17
Choristers arrive 15 minutes before rehearsal start time in order to:
> Sign in, pick up new music and memos, and hand in forms
> Assist with room set-up
> Organize music binders. Music binders and pencils are essential at every
rehearsal with the pencil case and pencils provided.
> Follow instructions given by the Conductor, Choir Manager(s) and mentors.
In the case of online Zoom rehearsals, we also expect choristers to arrive 15 minutes early in
order to set up and assure they have everything and have signed on and are ready to go.
Parents at Rehearsals
Your assistance in setting up and clearing the rehearsal space is greatly appreciated. Parents
are welcome and encouraged to observe regular rehearsals of Viva, Concert and Boys’
choirs. Prima and Chamber choirs may have closed rehearsals in order to reduce distraction
for choristers but do invite observers on selected dates.
Parking
OCC families can park in the St. Joseph’s parking lot for free 15 minutes before the start of
the regular weekly rehearsal and 15 minutes after the end of rehearsal while you drop off and
pick up your chorister. If you are going to park and stay in the area, you will need to pay
using their pay and display system.
The St. Joseph’s parking lot (approximately 100 spaces) is located on the east side of St.
Joseph’s. This lot has two areas: the first beside the church, and the second located behind
the school on the east side of the main lot. Those who park in either of these areas must pay
at the parking meter located at the south side of the parking lot (nearest Laurier Avenue East)
18or risk being ticketed. The entrance to the lot faces Wilbrod Street, just east of Cumberland
Street. The lot is managed and monitored by a third-party company.
The parking rates are as follows:
Day (6am-5pm): $1.50/30mins to a maximum of $12.00 for the day
Evening (5pm-6am): $1.00/30mins to a maximum of $10.00 for the night
*These are two separate time slots; you must pay $22.00 for the entire 24hrs.
There is also street parking surrounding the church and the University of Ottawa has several
public parking lots close to the church.
For some performances and other special events St. Joe's generously provides
free parking for OCC guests. If there is no sign indicating free parking or it is not the 15
minutes before or after a scheduled rehearsal, please ensure that you have paid to park in
the lot.
19Transportation
Transportation to and from rehearsals is the responsibility of the parents. For safety
reasons, children should not arrive more than 30 minutes before rehearsal as there is
no supervision.
Rehearsal pick-up times are up to 15 minutes after rehearsal ends
Parents must collect their children promptly at the designated time. Your
child's safety is our prime concern.
As a service for chorister parents and guardians who are looking for carpooling options, the OCC
is pleased to share a link with you to Ottawa Ride Match. Please be advised that OCC won't be
monitoring the site, it is managed by the City of Ottawa and is only accessible to families who
confidentially self-register: http://ottawachildrenschoir.ottawaridematch.com
Rehearsal Cancellations
If school buses are cancelled, then choir rehearsals are moved online for OCC choirs,
however, please check your emails regularly for updates.
Chamber Choir rehearsals may proceed depending on the situation. Please check your
emails throughout the day for updates. We will always endeavour to give as much notice
of a cancellation decision as possible and will post it on our website.
Chorister Attendance
Membership in the Choir is a commitment to faithful, consistent and punctual attendance
at ALL rehearsals and performances.
> The safety of choristers is our greatest concern.
> Please notify the Choir Manager of all absences with a note or e-mail
> For a last-minute absence text/ phone call to 613-233-4440
> In case of a planned absence, notification as far in advance as possible is recommended.
> Choir members are expected to honour their commitment and attend all scheduled
rehearsals and performances.
> Choristers who miss a rehearsal before a concert may not be permitted to sing at the
concert.
> Irregular attendance jeopardizes a chorister’s chances of success and confidence in choral
singing and may influence them remaining in the Choir. The Choir Conductor has broad
discretion in this matter.
20Chorister Expectations
> Attendance is required at technical or additional rehearsals before performances.
> Music binders are essential at every rehearsal**
> Choristers are responsible for all of their personal belongings.
> A nutritious snack is suggested prior to the rehearsal, but once rehearsal begins no eating is
permitted.
> Washroom requirements occur prior to the rehearsal
> A non–breakable water bottle is permitted.
> Tidy rehearsal space at the end of rehearsals.
> Choristers will show respect to other choir participants at all times.
> Choristers in the Viva, Concert and Chamber Choirs require daily review of their music.
> Memorization of lyrics, memorization of parts, additional assigned homework and listening
(e.g. mp3 files, YouTube, etc.) are part of the weekly commitment.
> Choir Conductors provide instruction and clear expectations far in advance to assist
successful choral education.
ANNUAL RE-AUDITIONS
Choristers (from all auditioned choirs) are required to re-audition in the spring if they wish
to continue the following year. Choristers who have outgrown Prima Choir will need an
audition to progress into another OCC choir. A schedule will be made up in the spring and
re-auditions take place mainly during regular rehearsal times. Choristers are asked to
book a time via the website and after a re-audition are offered placement based on: level
of individual musicianship, vocal development, and the balancing needs of each choir
level.
Audition results are provided in writing to applicants within 2 days of the audition.
These Re-auditions are not to be confused with General Auditions, which exist
for new choristers to our organization.
21PERFORMANCES & RECORDINGS
Choristers are required to attend all rehearsals the week preceding a performance. Failure to
do so may result in the chorister not being permitted to sing in the performance.
This is at the discretion of the Conductor.
> Arrive 15 minutes before choir call
> Arrive having eaten a nutritious meal or snack and be well hydrated. Performing is very
strenuous and the chorister's well-being is paramount.
> Adhere to dress code as instructed by the Music Conductor or Choir Manager.
> Personal hygiene is very important. Hair must be clean, brushed and tied neatly away from
the face. No trendy hairstyles or hair colours. No make-up, nail polish or jewelry (earrings,
necklaces, rings, watches, bracelets or anklets).
> Due to allergies, please do not use perfume or hairspray. Unscented deodorant is
recommended. Stages are often crowded, and stage lights are hot.
> Present yourself at all times in a calm, polite and professional manner.
> A choir is a group experience, where each voice is important. Every chorister is responsible
for mastering his/her own music.
> If you feel unwell prior to a performance, tell your Choir Manager right away. If you feel
unwell during a performance, quietly sit down. Supervisors who are nearby will help you.
> The OCC has a policy regarding the ratio of adult-child supervision which is based on the
Ottawa Carleton District School Board's (OCDSB) policy directed by the Ontario Ministry of
Education.
RECORDING & IMAGING
There are many times during the year when our choristers may be recorded (audio and
videotape), photographed or interviewed during Choir functions. In fact, we rely on being able
to portray the voices and images of our choristers through television, radio, print media and
the Choir’s website.
It is therefore understood that it is a condition of membership in the Choir that a chorister's
voice may be recorded, and his or her image may be portrayed, as described above. This is
why we ask families to fill in the Media Release Form.
AUDIENCE ETIQUETTE
The performances of the Ottawa Children’s Choir require focus, politeness, patience and
presence from our audiences. Our goal is to be as professional and artistically excellent as
possible and still have a relaxed and enjoyable time sharing our music. The expectation of
the choristers is that they will perform with poise and focus and sing to the best of their ability
to share their learning and love of music with the audience.
Our concerts are recorded for archival purposes. Often times, a piece is sung most
beautifully when it is being shared with a live audience. We are always working towards the
22production of a CD, and it would be ideal if the audience noise during the performance was at a minimum so that some of the recordings from our concerts could be used. Observing the convention of applauding only once the Conductor has lowered and relaxed his/her arms will also assist in making these recordings useable for CD production. The expectation of the audience members is that they will engage attentively and support the artists to the best of their ability by being fully present. If there are things that will distract from the artistic experience or recording such as electronic devices or young children who are not able to sit quietly, then they must be managed accordingly. For example, sit close to the back so you can quickly leave the hall or turn of your cell phone. We are guests in our performance venues, and it is imperative that we appreciate and respect the space. Churches are revered places of worship and we are fortunate to be able to perform in these wonderfully acoustic and special spaces. It is expected that we will not bring food or drink (water exempted) into these spaces and that we will leave things exactly as they were. It is wonderful that our audience fills the church and we are able to share our music with so many people! Let us all teach by example and let our children see that while at performances, we are considerate, appreciative, and fully present, in order to be moved by the beauty and power of the joy of singing. 23
SPECIAL PROJECTS
Some concerts may be performed outside of the Ottawa area and require the Choir to travel
as a group. Some of this traveling is done by bus and some by air. These tours require
everyone's complete cooperation for the chorister’s safety and well-being.
The Ottawa Children’s Choir is recognized both nationally and internationally for the quality of
its program and receives numerous invitations on a regular basis to participate in choral
festivals both at home and abroad. Major projects of this kind are part of the enrichment
opportunities for the Choir and it is expected that the parents of choir members will allow their
child to benefit from these experiences. All major projects are presented to a full meeting of
the parents involved, for their approval. The costs of these projects are shared between the
families, the Choir (through special fundraising activities) and sponsoring.
Families of the choristers in our organization are occasionally asked to billet visiting choirs or
bands that are performing in concerts with our Choirs or who have billeted our Choirs in the
past. This tradition of reciprocity is an enlightening and pleasant experience for all, and OCC
families may be called upon to provide this support.
UNIFORMS
hint: label all clothing for when we meet in person– we all match!
The OCC uses 2 uniforms:
1. Casual Uniforms
2. Formal Uniform
* these pieces are provided on loan from the OCC
+ these items are ordered by the OCC and available for purchase in September
= these pieces are the sole responsibility of the families
CASUAL UNIFORM - Prima, Viva, Concert & Chamber
+ Red OCC golf shirt ($25)
------------------------
= Black dress pants
= Black belt
= Black socks
= Black dress shoes
Note: this is also the Formal uniform for Prima Choir
24CASUAL UNIFORM - Boys + Boys’ Choir long sleeve ($25) ———————————————— = Black dress pants = Black socks = Black dress shoes FORMAL UNIFORM - Viva & Concert Choirs * Plaid vest White collared dress shirt Black dress pants OR *Navy kilt (=Opaque navy tights) = Black socks = Black dress shoes * Plaid scrunchie, or headband No makeup or jewelry FORMAL UNIFORM - Chamber Choir Pants option Dress option = White collared dress shirt + Black dress + Black vest + Red sash + Red tie = Black dress shoes (no heels) + Black tie = Nude-coloured nylons or bare legs = Black dress pants = Black socks Hair away from face = Black dress shoes No makeup or jewellery 25
FORMAL UNIFORM - Boys’ Choir
= White dress shirt
= Black dress pants
= Black belt
= Black socks
= Black dress shoes
Remembrance Day Uniform
All Choristers Attending (Concert & Chamber)
= White turtle-neck
Your own Winter jacket
*Red K-way
+Red OCC toque
=Black dress pants and/or black dark snow-pants
=Black or dark snow boots
Hair tied back from face
No makeup or jewelry
At the end of the year Uniform pieces must be dry-cleaned prior to their return otherwise a
$25 Dry-cleaning fee will apply.
26MUSIC BINDER
A music binder is issued to each chorister at the start of the year. Each chorister is given a
number at the start of the year and that is their ‘binder number.
Scores are issued and returned at regular intervals during the year using each member's
identification number. New music can be issued at any time but returns only happen after
the Winter and Spring Concerts.
The musical scores and the binder remain the property of the OCC
If a binder or individual pieces of music are damaged or lost choristers will be charged a
replacement cost. Individual sheets of music can cost $5/piece but vary significantly
depending on the music; an entire binder of music may cost over $100.
Markings in the music must be made in light pencil only and must be erased before music is
returned.
To keep music in good condition, each chorister is provided with:
> a three-ring binder
> a pencil case
> 2 pencils
The Choir respects copyrights, and therefore, photocopying of copyrighted material without permission
of the copyright holder is not permitted.
27FUNDRAISING
As with most volunteer organizations, fundraising is a significant factor in our budget. The
Choir generally has three fundraisers per year. Historically, these have been the coffee and
honey sale in November/December, the frozen berry sale in January/February, and the Maple
Syrup sale in April/May.
You can volunteer for any or all of the fundraisers as:
> Choir Coordinators (one per Choir - responsible for collecting orders from their Choir and
assisting the Fundraising Organizer in finalizing the order);
> Fundraising Organizer (is the contact person for our suppliers, and is responsible for organizing
and placing the final order of product);
> Order Distribution (several per Choir - these individuals help to sort the order when it arrives and
distribute orders to Choir families).
DONATIONS
Donations are a significant part of the Choir’s budget each year. Donations can be used for
music, travel, chorister financial assistance, special projects such as commissioning new
Canadian compositions, or general operating costs.
As the Choir is a Registered Charity, all donors receive an income tax receipt for donations of
$20 or more. Donors’ names are listed in the Christmas and Spring Concert programs and on
our website. We encourage families to solicit donations from family members and friends.
The Ottawa Children's Choir prefer donation be made:
> using the Donate Now button on our website: www.ottawachildrenschoir.ca;
> writing a cheque made out to Ottawa Children's Choir;
> giving cash to the Ottawa Children’s Choir;
> direct e-transfer to info@ottawachildrenschoir.ca;
> annual or monthly donations made through Canada Helps or United Way
28We hope that your family's involvement with the Ottawa Children’s Choir will be
exciting, educational and enjoyable.
29You can also read
