Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to audition?

No. There is no audition to join the Craven Community Chorus.

How do I join?

If you decide to participate this year, attend the first rehearsal on Monday, October 19 at 7 pm. Registration cards will be available at that rehearsal.

Do I need to know how to sing Handel's Messiah already?

You do not need to have sung the Messiah before, but you shoould be comfortable learning substantial choral music and keeping up with the pace of our rehearsals. We have a limited number of rehearsals, so being willing to work with the music between rehearsals is important.

What voice parts are you looking for?

Singers in all voice parts are welcome. However, we could always use more tenors and basses.

When are rehearsals?

Regular rehearsals are held Monday evenings at 7pm, beginning October 19 and continuing through November 30.

       Our final rehearsals with the conductor, Jim Ogle, are:

• Thursday, Dec 3 at 7pm
• Friday, Dec 4 at 7pm
• Saturday, Dec 5 from 1:30pm  – 3 pm

Where are rehearsals held?

Rehearsals are held in the sanctuary of Centenary United Methodist Church. Located on the corner of New and Middle streets. New Bern, NC

How often should I attend?

Singers should plan to attend every rehearsal. However, we understand things happen and allow two absences, no questions asked. Try not to miss any absences with Jim Ogle as we have a limited number of rehearsals with him. If you need to miss more than two rehearsals, please inform Pat or B.J.

What if I am sick?

Please stay home if you are sick, especially if you have symptoms that could spread to others in the chorus. If you're unsure, err on the side of caution, wear a mask and sit away from other singers.

What should I bring to rehearsal?

Bring your music and a pencil to every rehearsal. You may also want to bring water and anything else you need to stay comfortable and focused during rehearsl.

Do I need to practice between rehearslas?

Yes Rehearsal time is when we lwar the music together, but there is a lot to cover in a limited number of weeks. Taking some time during the week to reinforce what we lwarned will help you keep up and hlep the entire chorus move forward.

Do you have reharsaal tracks?

Yes.  Rehearsal tracks are available by voice part on our resources page to help you practice between rehearsals.

Do I need to provide my own music?

Chorus members use the G. Schirmer edition of Handel's Messiah.

Scores are available for purchase from Fuller's Music on Trent Rd.

How Much of the Messiah do we sing?

Craven Messiah Chorus Performs a selection of movements pertaining to the christmas season.

• "And the Glory"
• "And He Shall Purify"
• "O Thou That Tellest"
• "For Unto Us"
• "Glory to God"
• "His Yoke"
• "Since By Man Came Death"
• "Hallelujah"
• "Worth is the Lamb"

When and where is the performance?

Monday, December 7, 2026 at 7:30 pm

Sanctuary of Centenary United Methodist Church

Corner of New and Middle Streets

New Bern, NC

What happens on performance day?

Performance day includes:

• 2:30 PM: Chorus warm-up in the Fellowship Hall
• 3:00 PM: Open rehearsal in concert attire
• Approximately 6:00 PM: Supper
• 7:30 PM: Performance

What should I wear for the performance?

Women: Long-Sleeved white blouse with a long black skirt or black trousers.

Men: Long-Sleeved white shirt, dark trousers, and a long black tie.

Yes. Please do not wear cologne, perfume, or other strongly scented products to rehearsals or the performance. Some members of the chorus have fragrance sensitivities and allergies.

If you need to drop out after joining the chorus, please let Pat or B.J. know. We understand that circumstances can change, but knowing as soon as possible helps us plan for the performance. We hope you will be able to join again in the future.

Ticket sales do not cover all of the expenses involved in putting on the performance. If you are able, please

donate to the Craven Messiah Chorus. We are a 501 (C) (3) charitable corporation. You may donate to us by mail; our address is P.O. Box 455, New Bern, N.C. 28563-0455.