Got Questions?

Here are a number of frequently-asked questions.

How much personal time will it take?

In addition to weekly rehearsals throughout the year, we have an annual show either in the fall or spring. We also participate in a Sweet Adelines regional competition in the spring each year and, should we qualify, have the opportunity to compete internationally every two years in the fall. We may have a fun and exciting weekend retreat to focus on preparing for competition. We tend to perform in and around our area about 2-4 times per quarter for local festivals, business events, charitable events, and holiday events. Members are expected to attend coaching sessions as scheduled.

What is Sweet Adelines International, Inc.?

Sweet Adelines International home page 

What is the audition procedure?

Prospective members are encouraged to attend 2-4 rehearsals before auditioning. Let the SVC music team know you are interested in auditioning, more information will be given.

Do I have to be a great singer?

We believe that just about anyone can be a great singer and there are amazing opportunities for growth and education to help you release the great singer within!  Each week you'll receive direction from our director, Helen Giallombardo, and her music team.  You'll learn new and exciting ways to bring out the best in you!

Are there other educational opportunities?

Definitely!  We are an educational organization.  For example, each year there are both Fall and Winter AIM Meetings with a key note speaker and classes in categories such as vocal production, music theory, judging, arranging, directing and chorus and/or regional administration. While attendance at these seasonal meetings may be optional, all members of SVC are encouraged to attend, especially when we are lucky enough to be invited to perform on the evening show.

Another opportunity for music education is our Sing for the Summer program, usually held late May through August. These special rehearsals focus on non-stop enrichment of our knowledge of and skills in barbershop harmony singing. Family, friends, guests and members from around the region gather every Tuesday night at rehearsals for fun and great singing. It will enhance your musical knowledge and you'll have a great time, so you are encouraged to participate!

One of our favorite educational opportunities is the SVC Inner Diva Retreat, a weekend or day of concentrated music education, singing and good times. This is an opportunity for us to completely focus our energy towards our vocal and visual product under the masterful coaching of some of the world's best coaches.  Our talented music team, under the leadership of the director, also plans learning sessions covering such topics as choreography, vocal production and music theory.

Particularly of interest to those who enjoy singing in small groups is our Singing Valentines program held in February. This is an annual event where members travel around the Chicagoland area to deliver Singing Valentines to loved ones. It's a wonderful opportunity to sing in or observe a quartet and grow as a confident singer.

Throughout the year we enjoy the expertise of world-renowned barbershop coaches, themselves champions and leaders of champions. Sometimes held at normal rehearsal times, sometimes at a special weekend coaching session, both individuals and the chorus benefit greatly from the encouragement and advice we receive.  There are also educational opportunities provided by the organization we belong to, Sweet Adelines International.

How do I learn the songs?

You will be given excellent learning media including sheet music to take home and access to learning vocal tracks to sing along with. You'll also be given opportunities to learn at rehearsals where we often break into section rehearsals and small groups to hone in on our music and learn it at a high level.

Why Compete?

To perpetuate barbershop harmony and continue educating all members in this art form, each region in SAI holds an annual Regional Chorus and Quartet Competition. This event is scheduled in the spring and serves as an opportunity to meet other Sweet Adelines in the region as well as to enjoy the camaraderie of your own chorus members in a weekend get-away setting. The winners of each region then perform at International Competition. Preparing for competition is a challenge we thrive on, even though we work hard and may have a few extra rehearsals.

What other things do you do?

Besides competing at regional and international competitions, SVC also gives performances in the local area. Our annual show is a large fundraiser for the chorus. Throughout the year small concerts, or 'sing-outs', are held in the community.

Some of our fund raising opportunities include our Singing Valentines, where members of the chorus form quartets, which can be hired to perform a "singing telegram"  on or near Valentine's Day, Ice Cream Social, Happy Dollars and many more! Visit our Sponsors tab for special buyer discounts that also provide revenue for our chorus.

Social events are not lacking either! Besides meeting for a drink and a chat after rehearsal, performances are always followed by an 'Afterglow', a party for families and friends at which we enjoy food, fun and more singing.  We also have special gatherings around the holidays and following important competitions.

Didn't see your question answer here? Visit our Contact Us tab and we'll be happy to answer any questions you may have!