In recent years, there has been a surge in the popularity of virtual choirs. A virtual choir is a group of singers who connect, rehearse, and perform together online. These groups are wonderful because they provide an opportunity for singers to connect and rehearse together, even if they are not in the same physical location. This can be especially beneficial for singers who live in remote areas, or who have scheduling conflicts or health concerns that make it difficult to attend in-person rehearsals. These may be some of the reasons you want to join a virtual choir!
If you want to join a virtual choir, keep in mind that most tend to fall into one of three major categories:
- Ensembles that evolved from in-person to online groups
- Ensembles created to exist exclusively online
- Ensembles that assemble for discrete projects
Whatever the format, joining a virtual choir is a great way to stay connected with other singers and to keep your vocal skills sharp. Keep reading to learn how to join a virtual choir of your own!
Connecting with a Virtual Choir
It’s important to join a virtual choir that is a good fit for you. There are many different virtual choirs out there, so take some time to find one that you feel comfortable with. To find a group or project that’s suitable, you can search online or ask friends if they know of any groups that you might be interested in. Some helpful online resources might include social media sites, YouTube, and singer or choral forums. You might also consider reaching out to local music teachers or choir directors for suggestions.
Contemporary choral composer Eric Whitacre assembles virtual choirs for exciting projects that are large-scale but require a small time commitment. These project-based virtual choirs are open to anyone who would like to join. You can find more information on his website: http://www.ericwhitacre.com/virtual-choir
Once you’ve found a suitable virtual choir or project, contact the director or chorus manager for details about your group’s procedures. Make sure you have the necessary technology. Most virtual choirs will require you to have a computer or smartphone with a webcam and microphone. It is unlikely that a virtual choir will require new members to audition.
Rehearsing with a Virtual Choir
Rehearsals for virtual choirs typically happen through video conferencing software like Skype or Zoom. In some virtual rehearsals, choir members will log in at the same time and sing through their parts together. At other times, the director will lead the group in rehearsal with microphones turned off. Although choristers can’t hear one another singing, this type of rehearsal is useful for rehearsing rhythms, text, and notes. Ultimately, singers record their parts solo, anyway, so this is actually a helpful way to practice for performance.
Just as with any musical ensemble, practice your parts! Before you start rehearsals with a virtual choir, make sure you take some time to practice your music so that you are prepared.
Performing with a Virtual Choir
When it comes time to record for a virtual performance, there are a few things to keep in mind:
- Make sure you have a good microphone. A headset or earbuds with a built-in microphone are ideal, but you can also use a stand-alone microphone if you have one.
- A tripod is very helpful in achieving a steady and consistent video recording
- Find a quiet place to record. Turn off any fans or other noise-makers in the room where you’ll be recording. If your neighborhood is busy, avoid peak travel times to reduce the chance of sirens or horns ruining a take.
- Sing with confidence. The more confident you sound, the better your recording will be.
- Use headphones or earbuds to listen to your accompaniment or click track. This will help you keep time with the group and stay on pitch. If you play the backing track out loud, it will be audible on your final recording.
- Relax and have fun! Remember that music is a joyful endeavor, and should bring joy to those ultimately who watch your recording.
Always remit your videos on time, and in the format that your director requests! It takes considerable time and effort to compile virtual choir videos, so be respectful of your director’s deadlines by ensuring your contributions are punctual.
Bon Voyage!
You now know the steps to joining a virtual choir, from finding one that interests you, to rehearsing the music, to recording for your virtual performance. Tell us about your virtual choir experience in the comments below!
Feel like some in-person music making? Try a pub sing!