Harrogate Theatre Choir – Constitution

  1. Name: The choir shall be known as Harrogate Theatre Choir (HTC).
  2. Objectives: To promote & encourage singing for the membership of the HTC and contribute to the cultural life of Harrogate Community and Theatre. To arrange social events for members.
  3. Membership: Membership is open to men & women of all ages who have an interest in 2 above. The choir year follows a three term pattern the dates of which follow North Yorkshire School holidays. Members are to pay their term’s subscription before the start of each term. Subscriptions are set by the committee and as of September 2017 this is £50 per term. Members may take ONE term out of the choir but must pay a retainer for that term of £10 if they wish to keep their membership open.
  4. Management: The affairs of HTC shall be managed by a Committee, which will consist of a Chairperson, Secretary and Treasurer, Webmaster, Publicity Officer, Concert Promoter, Social Secretary, Librarian. These positions are to be elected at the AGM by a show of hands. The Musical Director and Accompanist may attend committee meetings when held.
  5. Annual General Meeting: An AGM should be held at the beginning of the Autumn Term.
  6. Extraordinary General Meetings: The committee may call an extraordinary general meeting at any time and must call a meeting on a written request by one third of the membership. Where possible 14 days’ notice detailing matters to be discussed shall be given to the members.
  7. Finance: The Treasurer shall present an annual balance sheet to the membership at the AGM. The Committee shall decide the fees to be paid to ensure all debts and expenses are paid in due time and adequate provision is made for the purchase, maintenance and replacements of assets of the choir. The Treasurer shall operate a Bank Account to safeguard Choir funds. Withdrawals may be made on the signature of two of the following: The Treasurer – The Chairperson – The Secretary.
  8. Dissolution of the Choir: If the choir folds any assets owned by them at that time are to be sold and the money from this sale plus any money held in the accounts are to be given to a Music Charity. The charity to be chosen at that time by the Committee.
  9. The Musical Director (MD): The MD will suggest a plan of events for the year ahead, taking into consideration the progress of the choir, numbers singing. (S)he shall advise the Committee and the Choir on the suitability of selected pieces to be rehearsed and performed. The Musical Director shall have complete authority at rehearsals and performances in all matters relating to musical standards and levels of proficiency.
  10. The Accompanist: Shall liaise closely with the Musical Director over rehearsals and performances.
  11. Care of Music – Musical scores, photocopies and folders handed out by the librarian or MD remain the property of the choir. When a member leaves they must be returned to the librarian as soon as possible in good re-usable condition with all markings erased. Any music in poor condition, marked with highlighter pen or ink must be replaced at the expense of the member leaving. The librarian with keep all spare music for future use.

This Constitution was recommended to members and ratified by them at the AGM held on 14/09/17