FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1) What is a trans-inclusive feminist choir? While the definition of "feminism" has historically been marked by shifts and ongoing debates, Chœur Maha is a safe space of equity and inclusion for all women and trans, non-binary or genderfluid people to gather, sing, and be in community. Through our artistic practice, we aim to present the works and lived histories of these groups. Our music is often (though certainly not exclusively) a celebration of values such as diversity, inclusivity, and intersectionality.
2) What level of musical experience/capabilities is recommended to participate in Maha?
Chœur Maha is an audition-based choir. The current members of Maha exhibit a variety of levels of musicianship. While it is helpful to have some preexisting musical background, resources can be made available to aid in learning repertoire for people with different levels of abilities. We have members that are full-time musicians, members that were in their school choir 30 years ago and recently started singing again, members that don't read music… and every possibility in between! The important thing is to be committed to learning the music.
3) What is the time commitment outside of the regular rehearsals?
In addition to the weekly Tuesday night rehearsal (7:00 - 9:30 pm), there are sectionals (rehearsals in smaller groups scheduled on top of the regular rehearsal) 1-2 times per term, and an optional (but encouraged) music intensive weekend retreat once per term. Members are expected to prepare as needed for each rehearsal through their own personal practice, which could take anywhere between 15-60 minutes per week depending on the current repertoire and your level of musicianship. Each term culminates in a final concert, for which there are 1-2 additional rehearsals in the space. Additionally, since many members have overlapping interests outside of singing together, there are often many opportunities for socializing and gathering throughout the year, though participation in any extracurricular activities is by no means required to be a member of Maha!
4) What is the audition process?
Auditions are held before the fall term and determine the configuration of the choir for the whole year (the fall and spring terms). Please see the audition instructions here!
5) What is the repertoire like?
Very varied! We perform songs from different historical eras and geographical locations, and consequently we sing in a variety of languages, including but not limited to English, French, Arabic, Spanish, Polish, Italian, Hebrew, Norwegian, and Latin. This repertoire includes original music by contemporary and/or local composers. We prioritize repertoire written by women, non-binary composers, and members of historically underrepresented groups. Some pieces from our repertoire are more overtly political than others, but no matter the context, we always make sure that each song is in line with the choir’s values. Some pieces are taught by ear, while other pieces benefit from having written scores. Our group also enjoys exploring experimental and improvisation-based music making, often pushing the boundaries of the Western choral music tradition.
6) Who is allowed to be in Maha?
Anyone who experiences gender-based oppression, including women, trans folks and anyone who falls along the spectrum of non-binary/genderqueer identity, is welcome to join Maha.
7) Are trans women allowed to sing in Maha?
Yes! See question 6.
8) Are trans men allowed to sing in Maha?
Yes! See question 6.
9) How does Maha include people with changing voices or people on HRT?
We do our best to accommodate the singing ranges of all members and encourage members to sing in the section that feels right for them, including moving sections as comfortable. Upper-voice choirs like Maha often divide their sections into Soprano 1, Soprano 2, Alto 1, Alto 2 (and tenor - individuals with lower voices are very welcome!). Maha uses the numbers 1,2,3, and 4 to distinguish between sections instead, which feels less hierarchical and more inclusive to us.
10) Are cis men who are allies allowed to participate in Maha?
No, please see question 1. We encourage allies to support us by attending our concerts or donating to the choir!
11) In what language are the rehearsals led? Will I be able to follow if I don’t speak French?
Maha is a bilingual choir where members are welcome to express themselves either in French or in English. Maha makes sure to hire artistic directors who speak both languages. The main language of our rehearsals depends on the current artistic director and the language that feels more natural to them. Anyone can ask for clarification or translation of the conductor’s instructions at any point during the rehearsal if necessary.
12) How does Maha accommodate people with disabilities / practice accessibility?
Please see our Accessibility page for details!
13) How can individual members safely and confidentially report concerns, uncomfortable situations, suggestions, etc. to foster a safe and inclusive space for everyone? The choir has designated two ombudspersons who function as liaisons between the choir members and the choir council. Members are welcome to reach out at any time to them with ideas, concerns, or feelings that they’d like to be presented before the council. Additionally, there is a confidential survey sent out at the end of each term that provides the opportunity for members to express their thoughts privately. We also have a procedure in place for reporting any violations to the choir’s code of conduct.
14) What does being a member of Maha look like? We asked current members!
“Maha is more than just an opportunity to sing exciting music with awesome humans… It's a community of sweet, supportive, creative, and inspiring individuals, and it fosters a strong sense of belonging.” - al
“I have yet to have a conversation with a Maha member that didn’t leave me at least a little dazzled. It’s rare to find such a concentration of kind, interesting, talented and capable people in one room, and a delight to sing alongside them every week. Maha creates a space where we can grow together, as musicians and humans, and I’m so grateful for that!” - amie
“As a non-musician, Maha is a space where I get to use my body and brain differently each week, and expand my skills and knowledge. But the welcoming, awesome, funny, feminist, committed community I get to be part of is the real gift.” - Steph