The following is information and guidelines for all members of the Boston University Choral Society.

Attendance Policy

Members are expected to attend rehearsal. You should be sitting in your seat, already signed in with your music at hand, ready to warm up with the ensemble before rehearsal starts.

We understand that this can be a large time commitment. However, as a group that is constantly seeking to improve itself and explore new musical territory, the BUCS requires a certain level of rehearsal time and member effort.

That said, sometimes unforeseen circumstances arise and you just can't make it to rehearsal. Chorus members are allowed to miss three rehearsals and have three tardies per semester. With so little time to prepare for our concerts, however, it is best if members attend every rehearsal. Feel free to approach any of the e-board members with questions or concerns. Exceptions to the rules above may be made if you have a genunine medical, family, or other emergency, but we won't know if you don't tell us.

Concert Dress

As of now, concert dress for the Fall Concert and the Masterworks concert is formal. For men, this means either a tuxedo or a black suit, with an appropriate white shirt, black bow tie, black shoes and socks. For women, this means full concert black: shirts should have long sleeves (three-quarter does not count) and no plunging necklines. Pants and ankle-length skirts should be black (stripes visible from more than four feet away are not black). Stockings should be black, as should shoes, which should be closed-toe. Bear in mind that concerts involve standing for several hours, and women should choose their shoes accordingly.

For all ensemble members, but especially women, jewelry is allowed but should be kept small and tasteful. If your earrings touch your shoulders, leave them at home! We're standing close together in a hot space for performance, so let's be clear: all performers should make sure to shower and use deodorant. And please, if you absolutely must wear perfume or cologne, wear as little as posible. Under concert conditions it's very easy for other chorus members to have adverse reactions to strong scents, and the last thing we need is someone having an asthma attack on the top riser.

Dues and Folders

The dues for Choral Society members are $15 for just one semester or $25 for the year. Cash and checks are accepted. When you have paid your dues, you will be assigned a folder, and you will be able to take your music home with you. Please keep very careful track of your music. Remember that music costs money and if we don't get your music back at the end of the term, you will be responsible for the cost.