WHAT IS YOUR GROUP’S PURPOSE?
Begin with people you already know in the industry and conduct an informal “needs assessment.” Brainstorm the different ways you could meet community needs.
Read the profiles of the four singer groups featured in this issue. Which group elements are most interesting for you and your community?
Ask yourself, “If I was 100 percent certain that I couldn’t fail, I would create a group that did __________.” Removing obstacles may help you discover your group’s most energizing purpose.
WHOM WILL YOUR GROUP SERVE?
Make a list of the different occupations within the industry. This may include singers, choral groups, accompanists, teachers and coaches, producers, directors, agents, and patrons. Decide which ones your group best serves.
Decide if your group will focus on a particular genre or serve multiple types of singers. (i.e., opera, cabaret, musical theater, oratorio, etc.)
Once you’ve targeted the ideal members of your group, determine how you’ll contact prospective members. Suggestions: mail out brochures, make phone calls, send e-mail announcements, place advertisements in relevant publications, write a press release for media contacts, or post flyers in appropriate locations.
Think of other existing groups that have similar interests to yours, such as performing organizations, directories, convention rosters, universities and conservatories. Marketing to groups is a very efficient way of getting the word out to many people with minimal time and expense.
Consider offering free membership or waiving event fees to attract members.
Always encourage members to invite others!
WHEN AND WHERE WILL YOUR GROUP MEET?
After deciding your purpose and audience, create a realistically feasible opening event.
Select a date and time appropriate for the majority of prospective members and announce it with plenty of lead-time.
Secure an affordable location. Possible low- or no-cost meeting locations include private homes, places of worship, libraries, and rehearsal halls.
HOW WILL YOUR GROUP BE SUSTAINED?
Create a budget for your first year. Look at your expenses and determine how to generate income to meet them.
If you’re going to charge your members a fee, be certain you convey the benefits they’ll receive from it.
If you’re interested in becoming a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that can receive tax-deductible contributions, go to www.boardsource.org for more information.
