Every new endeavor requires a solid foundation upon which to build a strong structure. As a result, Show Choir Canada has created the following standards to serve as a foundation for a comprehensive choral program. It is hoped that everyone involved in show choir performance – from choral directors to choreographers to costumers – will find these standards useful, whether associated with a beginning choir, developing choir, or experience choir.
We at Show Choir Canada understand that show choirs are not the be all and end all of the choral experience. Rather, show choirs are part of complete choral programs, but offering enhanced elements of performance, creative ways to explore repertoire, and opportunities to reach out to a non-traditional audience. Fundamental principles of traditional choral programs still apply in the pursuit of excellence.
Performing solo or within an ensemble, show choir members should demonstrate healthy vocal technique, musicianship, technical accuracy, and the ability to perform a variety of musical styles.
Performing solo or within an ensemble, show choir members should demonstrate appropriate technique, accuracy and expression. Varied dance styles should compliment and enhance the chosen repertoire.
Working with live or recorded accompaniment, show choir members should demonstrate an ensemble-based performance that not only entertains but also educates audience members and performers. Show choir directors are encouraged to use live accompaniment in at least one musical number.
By exhibiting skills in movement, vocal, and theatricality/acting, show choir participants should demonstrate an aptitude for becoming well-rounded performers.
Show choir participants should demonstrate basic music theory through being able to sightread varying parts in a vocal score, understand dynamics, and demonstrate an awareness of style through appropriate vocabulary, tone, articulation and phrasing.
Utilizing the accepted standards of excellence in the disciplines of music, dance, and theatre, performers should demonstrate the ability to objectively evaluate not only their performances but also the performances of others with an eye to the ensemble approach and overall effect of the combination of the three disciplines.
Show choir participants are equally encouraged to excel on an individual level as much as members of an ensemble, not only in terms of interpretative skills as solo and ensemble performers, but also as creators, ex., composers, arrangers, choreographers, designers, asst./assoc. producers.
Show choir members should exhibit a clear understanding of performed music, in terms of genre, culture, style, and historical context.
Show Choirs must be a minimum of twelve (12) singers/dancers. Most Show Choirs are between 25-50 singers/dancers. It is rare to see a Show Choir over 60 singers/dancers.
Show choir members should demonstrate a professional approach to their art as assessed through performance elements, rehearsal etiquette, attention to detail, and respect for the work of all involved.
Choirs are free to present any type of performance they wish. However, it is useful for you to be aware of a “Standard Show Choir Show Design.” We pride ourselves in the diversity of our judging panel and just as there is likely to be a very progressive, forward thinking judge, there is just as likely liable to be a traditionalist. That being said, a ‘TRADITIONAL show design is:
Soloists may be highlighted at any time during the performance, however, this is a “choir” event and as such, the focus should be on the choir.
Remember this is only a guideline that ensures a somewhat possible template to get the spectrum of styles and variety a great show choir can deliver.