Frequently Asked Questions
Whether you’re planning your first visit or just curious about our chorus, we hope these answers help you feel confident and excited to join us.
Do I need to audition?
Not to visit! We’d love for you to come experience a rehearsal before making any decisions.
If you decide you’d like to become a member, we’ll help you find the voice part that’s the best fit for you. Our goal isn’t perfection on day one. It’s helping every singer grow with confidence.
Can I visit before deciding to join?
Absolutely.
We encourage every prospective member to visit at least once before deciding whether the Blue Ridge Belles is the right fit. Come observe, sing along if you’d like, or simply enjoy listening.
There’s no pressure and no obligation.
What should I wear?
Come as you are!
Most members wear comfortable, casual clothing to rehearsal. Since we’ll be standing and moving throughout the evening, comfortable shoes are always a good idea.
Do I need to read music?
Not at all.
Many of our members learn by ear, and we provide learning tracks and other resources to help you succeed. Whether you’re an experienced musician or haven’t sung in years, we’ll help you every step of the way.
What kind of music do we sing?
Our foundation is barbershop harmony, and you’ll certainly sing many beautiful barbershop arrangements. We also enjoy exploring other styles of a cappella music written for women’s voices, including contemporary, folk, sacred, jazz, and seasonal repertoire.
Alongside classic barbershop arrangements, we also perform a variety of a cappella music for women’s voices, including pieces with more than four parts. Our goal is to build a repertoire that is beautiful, engaging, and joyful to sing.
Is there an age requirement?
At this time, Blue Ridge Belles is open to adult women (18+).
Whether you’re in college, building a career, raising a family, recently retired, or anywhere in between, you’ll find singers from a variety of backgrounds who share a love of music and community.
We hope this is just the beginning. As our chorus grows, we’d love to explore creating a youth ensemble for younger singers. If that’s something your family would enjoy, let us know. We’d be excited to gauge interest!
What happens during a rehearsal?
Every rehearsal is a little different, but you can generally expect:
A warm welcome
Vocal warmups
Learning and rehearsing music
Coaching on vocal technique and performance Plenty of laughter along the way
Guests are welcome to observe or participate as much as they’re comfortable.
What if I’ve never sung barbershop before?
You’re in wonderful company.
Many of our members discovered barbershop for the very first time when they walked through our doors. We’ll introduce you to the style, provide music and learning resources, and help you become comfortable at your own pace.
You don’t have to know barbershop to belong here.
How often do you perform?
Throughout the year, we perform at community events, seasonal concerts, festivals, and special performances.
Members are encouraged to participate in performances as they’re ready. Our focus is on growing together, not rushing anyone onto the stage before they’re comfortable.
Is there a Cost to Join?
Visitors are always welcome at no cost.
If you choose to become a member, there are membership dues that help support music, educational resources, performances, and chorus operations. We’d be happy to explain those details during your visit or answer any questions beforehand.
Can I visit more than once?
Of course!
We understand that joining a chorus is an important decision. You’re welcome to attend more than one rehearsal so you can get to know our members, experience the rehearsal environment, and determine whether the Blue Ridge Belles feels like home.
What voice part will I sing?
Don’t worry if you aren’t sure whether you’re a Lead, Tenor, Baritone, or Bass.
We’ll help you discover the part that fits your voice best.
What should I bring?
Just yourself!
If you have a water bottle or a pencil, feel free to bring them, but we’ll provide any music you’ll need for your visit.
Why “Blue Ridge Belles”?
Our name celebrates the beauty and hospitality of Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains while honoring the tradition of women’s barbershop harmony.
We hope every member helps write the next chapter of the Blue Ridge Belles story.
