Dear Keith.
That competition sounds like quite a challenge, especially with the high standard that has already been set by the JCC of NZ massed choir!
But . . . before there's a mad dash by the various sections and international clubs to hire (at great expense) experienced professional directors, sound engineers and camera persons, not to mention voice/singing coaches, perhaps some "ground rules" should be established. ':D'
I thought that as far as the camera and sound recording equipment is concerned, that gear should be confined to the use of a solitary
cellphone only (my reasoning is that almost everyone has access to one . . and the "production" of a post-able video should be simpler to do.
The "clip" should be confined to
the chorus only for the audition track ( a full concert rendition could follow later, made by the winner only . . . to be included on the two CDs presented to the second place group ONLY) That'll teach em for not being good enough to make first place!
Now the next "rules" rely on the complete honesty of the group concerned. There are to be
NO ring-ins (in other words, the choristers will need to be bone fide LOCAL club members and their immediate family). Ahhh ha . . now there's a chance to swell cub membership . . . "others" could join especially for the the recording session!
Also, anyone who may have at any time, accepted moneys or other forms of renumeration, gifts etc. for performing in a professional capacity
must merely mime the words of the song. If this latter rule is broken, the curse of
perpetual Laryngitis will befall the offender . . . be warned the Gods have been contracted regarding this!
As far as the incorruptible, knowledgeable, and unbiased judge that is required, I'm personally very concerned about this. So, I'd like to put forward for consideration, one
Anthony Blair, presently of Downing Street, London. ( a compassionate choice I believe, as I understand he'll be out of a job in the very near future and has a wife and family to support . . . this honorary post may act as a suitable distraction until he can re-establish himself in gainful employment!).
Yours, most insincerely, Leo
