Arts >> Music >> Live Music

How to Start an A Capella Group

For many musicians, the opportunity to perform in front an audience is a precious commodity. Although the number of capable musicians far outnumbers the number of professional ensembles and outlets for concerts, starting a local, amateur performance group is not an overwhelming endeavor. Musicians in a wide variety of performing arts genres can use commonly available resources to begin creating their own sustainable ensemble. Fiscal responsibility, persistent advertisement and managing group dynamics can help nurture the beginnings of a new choral a capella group.

Things You'll Need

  • Funding
  • Sheet music
  • Rehearsal space
  • Performance space
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Advertise the new group you plan on creating through local media outlets and performing arts online forums and evaluate the response you receive. An a capella group can be comprised of several different groupings of singers, such as a male a capella chorus, female a capella chorus or mixed choir; the responses you receive will directly affect the type of ensemble you are capable of creating.

    • 2

      Determine which music best fits the composition and skill level of your ensemble and research rental and purchasing fees for the sheet music. Retailers such as Pender's Music, Brook Mays Music Company and Burt And Company each offer sheet music for purchase and rental. As fees for compositions vary widely, ensure that you are capable of meeting the necessary financial requirements before launching your a capella group.

    • 3

      Host auditions for local singers to scout out talented performers interested in joining your ensemble. Virtually all performing arts groups, regardless of their prestige or professional status, audition each member of their ensemble. These auditions can be informal, taking place in a home or church, as well as highly organized, involving specific repertoire to be performed and piano accompanists.

    • 4

      Find and reserve a venue for your ensemble to rehearse and perform. Typically, performing arts groups of amateur status rehearse once a week, while more professional ensembles may hold multiple rehearsals within the week. Securing a consistent time and place for your ensemble to collaborate is an essential element of the successful foundation of your group. As an a capella choir does not require as much space as an orchestra, your rehearsal area can be quite small.

    • 5

      Advertise online and within community media outlets to generate interest in your a cappella group's performances. Perform at community events and local churches to bolster enthusiasm and support. Typically, increased press, media coverage and public exposure will result in larger audience attendance at formal concert events. Seasonal events, such as Christmas caroling and Messiah sing-alongs can also help build the reputation of your group.

    • 6

      Create a business banking account for your a capella group if you plan on raising money through ticket sales and fund raisers. Corporate sponsors and individual donors may be more encouraged to support your group fiscally if they are confident that you are handling your group's finances in a sophisticated manner.

Live Music

Related Categories