Rehearsing an ensemble in Shanghai can be challenging. As a new ensemble, the Shanghai International Choral League is comprised of singers that come from a number of participating choirs, ranging from school ensembles to community groups, to church choirs. The ethnic makeup of the choir is diverse as well, as about two thirds are native Chinese and one third expatriates. These expats come to Shanghai, most often to work for international companies. Young people also come for the thrill of experiencing the city. English speakers can earn a livable wage teaching English as a second language in one of the many language institutes. Finally, some come to Shanghai seeking adventure through teaching, learning Chinese, attending university, or just to experience Chinese culture.

One of the primary challenges rehearsing a choir that is as diverse as the SICL is simply finding common rehearsal time. Because the singers’ schedules are variable, it requires some creative problem solving to insure that rehearsals are productive, and to provide enough of them so that the musicians feel comfortable with the music. As these are mostly untrained singers, finding common ground musically has necessitated that I be more flexible with the rehearsal schedule in order to accommodate as many singers as possible. In addition to the weekly rehearsals, I have had the help of the directors of the individual choirs, who will organize extra informal rehearsals that facilitate note learning so that, upon my arrival, most of the foundational work is already done, and we can begin work on more musical aspects of style, refinement and communication.

The single most gratifying thing for me is that the singers are willing to work hard and are eager to learn.