The SGC (the Singing Group Council—an umbrella organization at Yale that coordinates and oversees the Rush process) has got you covered. A sequence of rush events, which you should make sure to attend, will surely point you in the right direction. The Undergraduate Organization Bazaar, which you should attend even if you don't intend to rush an a cappella group, takes place on Beinecke Plaza in late August. All the a cappella groups will be there—you’ll know because they'll ask you if you sing. Come and meet us, look through our photo albums, talk to us about auditions, have some candy. Meet all the other singing groups too, and sign up for anything else with which you might possibly want to get involved.

A Woolsey Hall concert, where all of the a cappella groups perform, will occur during the same few days before school in August, usually the evening of the Undergraduate Bazaar. This concert marks the official commencement of rush every year, and all of the groups in the SGC (including Whim ‘n Rhythm and the Whiffenpoofs) will sing two songs each so that you can get an idea of each group's sound. Come, bring friends, and enjoy the music. There will be a second concert at Dwight Hall (on Old Campus) several days after the concert at Woolsey. Just as they did at Woolsey, all the groups will perform more songs from their repertoire. After all the groups have performed, you can sign up for auditions at the groups' tables, which will be along the walls of Dwight Hall. No one can sign up for anything until the last group has finished performing. But after the last song, the madhouse ensues as the sign-up chaos begins! But no worries, it is a memorable and fun experience.

Once you’ve attended the Dwight Hall Jam, you should know which groups you'd like to audition for! And if you decide to audition, remember: RELAX, pick a song you really like and that showcases your abilities, and most importantly have fun! Auditions are low-key, low-stress, but high energy. The group will just be excited to hear and meet you!

A general Shades audition usually consists of a variety of vocal warm-ups and warm-downs, a belting exercise, a choreography exercise, and of course your solo! And that’s it! Ten minutes and you’re done!

SO if you decide to take part in Rush, whether it be for Shades or other groups, just remember to enjoy the process. Rush is a hectic time, but the group members, fun Rush meals, and the amazing Singing Desserts make it all worth while! Have fun! Sing your heart out! Go for it!

Just a note that Shades gives only ONE rush meal per rushee per audition and per callback. This is not because we don't love you but it is to accommodate all our rushees and their schedules.

If you have any questions about rushing Shades, contact our friendly rush managers: Gale Harrington, Jasmine Reid, and Carmen Thunem!!

                            

                                           Rush Managers and Tap Class of 2007