Membership Q/A

Find answers to your questions about membership in Sweet Adelines International below.

I'm interested in membership. What should I do now?
First, locate a local chorus (also called chapters) near you by using the online Chapter Directory search, and contact the chorus members listed. The members will be happy to assist you and will welcome you to a chorus rehearsal. For membership options outside of chorus membership see Chapter-at-Large and Member-at-Large options.

Can I join online?
Due to the fact that Sweet Adelines International is a singing and performing organization, we do not offer direct online joining opportunities. Each individual chorus maintains its own membership guidelines, rehearsal requirements, auditioning procedures and more.

What are the membership options and dues?
For information about international dues, click here. Please note that only international dues are listed, regional and chapter dues may apply.

What are the benefits of membership?
Membership in Sweet Adelines International provides unlimited opportunities and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Here are just a few:

• Superb, unmatched vocal education and training
• Exciting opportunities to entertain within your community and compete with the most talented barbershop singers in the world
• Fun social activities and spectacular performance opportunities
• Programs designed to inspire you to reach new levels of success in a supportive community of friends
• Discounts on sheet music, CDs, DVDs, books, brochures, merchandise and convention registrations
• Discounts on special music arrangements by internationally recognized arrangers, made available only to members
• A free subscription to the The Pitch Pipe, the official magazine of Sweet Adelines International, plus other various newsletters and publications
• View more membership benefits here.

What kind of music do Sweet Adelines sing?
Today’s Sweet Adelines choruses and quartets sing exciting a cappella, four-part harmony music, barbershop style. The music includes special arrangements of today’s ballads and upbeat songs, popular show tunes, and even jazz. Members say that singing the satisfying sounds of barbershop harmony provides a rich, rewarding experience.

What types of educational opportunities are available?
The main purpose of Sweet Adelines International is education of members in the art of singing four-part harmony, barbershop style. If you want to improve your singing abilities and learn a cappella harmony barbershop style, Sweet Adelines International offers the most comprehensive, quality education available anywhere in the world. Some of the subjects you can learn include:

• Vocal Production
• Choreography
• Stage Direction
• PR/Marketing
• Costuming
• Stage Makeup
• Judging
• Teaching
• Directing
• Chorus Management
• Arranging
• Personal Growth and Leadership

Where do Sweet Adelines International choruses and quartets perform?
Sweet Adelines have performed their unique style of music in many popular venues from professional stadiums to Olympic ceremonies, with major symphonies and on national television shows.

A Sweet Adelines chorus is a musical asset to its community. Choruses and quartets regularly entertain at community events and civic functions.

What is the competition aspect of Sweet Adelines International?
Members are entitled to participate in competitions at regional and international levels. Judges give detailed feedback on performances, which can be used as a learning tool to improve performance of the individual as well as the group. Competitions represent exciting opportunities to travel, perform and learn.

Why should I sing with Sweet Adelines International?
Singing and friendships are the main reasons our member join and stay with the organization. Our singing hobby allows you to get involved with performing and competitions, which add excitement and challenge to your musical experience. Many members find their own personal development a thrill and their self-confidence grows as they learn singing and skills they may have never known before.