“When a longstanding singer’s voice declines, what should I do?”
May 19, 2026- answered by Mariana Rosas
Question
I direct an auditioned adult choir, and one long-standing member’s voice is now deteriorating, affecting sound, tuning, stamina, everything! We don’t have a re-audition policy, and I feel a strong sense of loyalty, but it’s impacting the overall sound and it's beginning to really frustrate other members. How can I handle this sensitively and fairly?
Choir Type Age Group Size Entry / Recruitment Rehearsal Pattern Experience Level Repertoire / Style Optional Context Answer A few thoughts on one of the hardest things a conductor must do - #1 Being concerned about this issue means you are a caring and empathetic leader who understands that interpersonal relations and people’s feelings are at the core of what we do, and that in itself is positive. However, #2 In an auditioned chamber choir, your members expect certain musical standards, and it is your duty to do everything in your power to achieve that. Importance of having concrete and transparent procedures - #3 The situation described is about a specific member, but it’s important to take this opportunity to create a process that will help you navigate this situation and similar future ones. The process should not be linked to a particular member, but to principles that you consider right and fair. Regular re-auditions / Vocal strategy - #4 There are different formats of re-auditions you could explore and find the one that suits your group (every 1, 2, 3 years; individual or in small groups; etc) It’s important that the re-auditions are linked to a vocal strategy that can support your members to thrive. The re-auditions are your opportunity to give people individual feedback, let them know if there are areas that need improvement and what they can do to meet the expectations. Warn them so they know that something isn’t working, to help them prepare for the possibility of them having to leave the choir. Let them tell their story: it’s likely that the choir is an important part of members’ lives. Let them have some agency in how to close this chapter by establishing a time frame for them to leave. Keep the feedback confidential, so they can decide the story they will tell. Having to ask a member of an amateur group to leave because they no longer meet the musical standards is one of the hardest things you’ll do as a conductor, but your members will appreciate that you are looking after the choir and everybody’s hard work. Some people will understand it, some people might hate you, and sadly, that is something we cannot control. The clearer the process, the easier for you to navigate it in an impartial and fair way. Mariana Rosas
Chamber / auditioned choir
Adults
20–40
Formal audition
Once a week
90–120 mins
Advanced
Mainly classical repertoire - Renaissance to contemporary, often performed a cappella.
The singer has been with the choir for over 15 years and is well-liked. I’m concerned about handling this without causing embarrassment or damaging group morale.
Chorus Director, London Symphony Chorus
