• Before concert and at end of interval, Choir lines up in order ready to file on.  Where we do this depends on the venue.  Instructions will be given on the day.  On signal from concert manager, Choir files onto stage.  Back row first, front row last.  Please hold your folder in your left hand, with choir logo showing.  Choir remains standing until whole choir is on stage.
• When last Choir member is on stage, that person gives a signal for Choir to sit.
• When conductor and soloists enter, Choir remains seated.  Do not applaud at this stage.  Choir stands on signal from conductor.

Going off

• At end of first half and at end of concert, Choir remains standing until applause is finished.
• You may wish to applaud conductor/soloists, but remember to stop clapping when Choir is receiving applause.
• When applause is finished, Choir files off from front.  Front row first, back row last.  Give way to orchestral players if necessary.

Interval

• Not all venues have an interval bell.  In some places, the audience will not know the second half is about to start until the Choir comes on stage.  Please be conscious of time, and be aware if rest of choir is lining up and you are not there!

Concert dress

• Men:  Black dinner suit, white shirt, black bow tie, black shoes.  No coloured waistcoats or bow ties (except at Christmas).
• Women:  Floor-length long-sleeved black dress (or top and skirt or smart trousers), black tights/stockings/socks and shoes.

General

• When we carry out audience surveys, the most frequent general comment is that choir members have their heads buried in their copies and never smile.
• Watch the conductor, it is perfectly possible to watch the conductor and follow your music at the same time if you hold your folder up in front of you.
• Smile, if we look as if we are enjoying the music, the audience is more likely to do so too.
• Do not shuffle about or talk to your neighbour while on stage;
  Turn pages quietly - the audience have come to hear the music, not the sound of turning pages.
• If there is an instrumental piece in the middle of the concert, try to avoid attracting attention eg by undertaking obvious and major reorganisations of the music in your folder, don’t look bored either.
• Do not leave music on/under your seat at the interval.
• Please listen carefully to any instructions you are given about the return of music/folders after the concert.  Music is due back with the Librarian within two weeks of the concert, and you may be charged the full price of replacement copies if you do not meet this deadline.