POLICIES
The polices of The Choral Art Society support our mission and vision statements.
AUDITIONS
Auditions are central to CAS’s quest for musical excellence. An initial audition is compulsory for admission to any of the three ensembles.
Masterworks Chorus
The Choral Art Masterworks Chorus, our largest ensemble of 80-120 voices, performs primarily symphonic works, often as a guest of the Portland Symphony Orchestra. Auditions, typically scheduled in November, anticipate a PSO performance in late winter or early spring. At the audition the music director will ask you to sing your part in “How lovely is thy dwelling place” from the Brahms Requiem. You will also be asked to sing a scale to determine your vocal range.
Singers
The CAS Singers, our medium-sized ensemble of about 60 singers, performs in early December the traditional Christmas at the Cathedral concert and one or two additional concerts annually. Auditions, typically scheduled in May, are held to fill available spaces in the ensemble. Periodically, usually every 3-4 years, all members of the CAS Singers must reaudition. The audition requirements are published well in advance of the audition and include sightsinging.
Camerata
The Choral Art Camerata, our smallest ensemble of 12-24 voices, performs a cappella repertoire and an occasional Bach cantata. Auditions are typically scheduled in May on a schedule to be determined by the music director. The audition requirements are published well in advance of the audition and include sightsinging.
REHEARSALS
Rehearsals are usually held at the Allen Avenue Unitarian Universalist Church, 524 Allen Avenue, Portland on Monday evenings from 7:30 to 10:00. A typical season begins after Labor Day and runs through Memorial Day.
Attendance Policy
A rehearsal schedule is published well in advance. Members must attend at least 80% of regular rehearsals in order to sing in the concerts. Three tardy arrivals or early departures equal one absence. Attendance is mandatory at final rehearsals.
Memberships Dues
All members of The Choral Art Society pay dues. The revenue from annual dues helps the organization produce and present exceptional musical experiences. Members of CAS are entitled to vote at the CAS Annual Meeting, and they receive all CAS correspondence. Anyone for whom dues payment presents a hardship may speak to the CAS President or Manager for other arrangements.
Masterworks $35 | Singers $100
Camerata $35
Costume
Women: purchased black and white concert gown from Stage Accents, pearl necklace, stud earrings, black stockings, black shoes
Men: purchased or rented black tuxedo, white shirt, black bow tie, black socks, black shoes
Volunteerism
All CAS members are strongly encouraged to volunteer. Many volunteer opportunities are available – Logistics, Costume, Finance and Development, Marketing, Operations, and Planning and Evaluation. For specifics please see Members’ Section Manual of CAS Jobs.