PERFORMANCE PROTOCOLS

In preparation for a performance by SVILA, the Musical Director will ensure that:

o The preparation for the performance is in proportion to the scope of the

performance , i.e. the larger the audience, the greater the audience’s
familiarity with Balkan music, the more formal the venue, (etc.) the more
rigorously we prepare.
o She accepts a performance engagement on behalf of the ensemble only when she
herself is available to direct that performance and when a commitment to participation
by at least six ensemble members has been secured at least one week prior to the
confirmation of the booking.
o When she anticipates being unable to attend a potential performance, she will pass the
decision whether to accept or decline the engagement to the Administrative
Committee.
o Selected repertoire will include only pieces which can be thoroughly coached and
confidently demonstrated by the ensemble at least one week prior to the performance.
o The set list will contain a minimum of six songs for any formal performance with six or
more singers present.
o The set list and all changes to arrangements have been clearly established prior to the
final rehearsal preceding the performance.
o At least one full rehearsal attended by all participating members will be dedicated to
preparing selected repertoire, including a run-through of the full set list, subsequent to
the above protocols and within one week of the performance date.
o At least twenty minutes of group warm-up time will commence thirty minutes prior to
performance time.
o When a sound system is in use, prior to the commencement of the performance, a
sound check will be conducted and the performance will not commence until all systems
are functioning to the fullest possible advantage of the ensemble.
o The performance will be interrupted as necessary to rectify any obvious problem that is
compromising the quality of the performance, including but not limited to, the correct
re-starting of a piece begun in an evidently faulty manner (e.g. the starting note was
unclear) or a technological failure (e.g. the sound monitors or microphones are not
turned on).
o After each performance by six or more ensemble members, participating singers will be
offered the opportunity to submit a standardized post-performance critique.