MCC Highlands Festival

MCC HIGHLANDS

CHOIR FESTIVAL

DATE: Thursday, May 17, 2012

FEE: $150 per group

Sponsored by:

1. This festival is a non-competitive, comments-only, “let’s show what we’ve learned all year” event for any grade choir (6th-12th grade) of any type (beginning, varsity, non-varsity). Each choir will receive written comment sheets from two judges. Comments will address the entire time the group is within view/hearing of the judge. This includes the movement onto and off the stage, behavior and attention while on the stage, and (most importantly) the demonstrated grasp of proper singing fundamentals (posture, tone production, enunciation, rhythmic control, etc.). Note: ratings will not be given - only judge’s comments.

3. All choirs will receive a trophy for participation and a DVD video recording of the on-stage performance.

4. Each group will have at least 10 minutes for warm-up and a stage time not to exceed 8 minutes. Groups arriving late might have their warm-up time shortened and/or their stage time delayed and/or cancelled in order to not affect other participants. The festival host will strive to make reasonable accomodation for late arrivals, but please be aware that refunds will not be made.

6. Approximately one week before the festival, directors will be emailed forms for the stage script and judges' comments. These are to be completed and brought on the day of the festival.

7. A grand piano, a director-operated CD player, and four sets of 4-step risers will be on the stage (see Picture Gallery). Please note that a PA/ microphones for soloists, etc, will not be available. You can download an information sheet about the riser set up here.

8. If you are bringing a choir that has choreography and does not use risers (eg, Show Choir), you may use the stage area in front of the piano (approximately 15 feet in depth). Please see the Picture Gallery. Stage time limits will be enforced; please consider this when bringing props, scenery, etc.

9. If you are bringing more than one choir from the same school and each choir will be performing separately, the entry fee for the second and third choir will be discounted to $125 each. [Example: 3 choirs from same school = $400 total fees ($150 + $125 + $125). In this scenario, each choir receives a trophy and a separate performance time.]

10. Some directors choose to tell their groups that they will receive a trophy only if their performance is “superior.” Since no ratings are given, posted, or announced at the festival - and all groups receive a participation award - this is a choice for you to make. If you feel it helps your group focus and work harder, then do it!

11. Due to summer classes being taught at MCC during the festival timeframe, no designated changing room or storage area can be provided. Please do not plan to change clothes on our campus before or after your performance.

12. The performance will be held in the Performing Arts Center Theater on the MCC campus. This is a venue with very little acoustic reverb and seating for 350 listeners. Quiet parents and students are welcome.