Choir Competition Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. National Arts and Letters Commission
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. National Arts and Letters Commission Presents Choir Competition (Any group of 12 to 100 active sorors can compete) Sing Sorors! Sing! Choir Competition Entry Packet Page 1 Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. National Arts and Letters Commission presents Sing Sorors! Sing! OVERVIEW: The National Arts and Letters Commission is sponsoring “Sing Sorors! Sing!,” a choir competition designed to showcase the musical talents of members throughout the Sorority’s seven regions and ultimately find the “best choir” in our beloved Sorority. Each region will be tasked with presenting as many choir submissions as possible from their region to compete against each other. The winning choir of each region will then compete to become the National Winning Choir, which will: 1) give the opening performance for the Gospel Concert during the 2015 National Convention, in Houston, TX; 2) be featured on the National Arts and Letters’ Legacy CD; and 3) receive a $1,000 cash award to be later presented to its designated scholarship recipient. ENTRY DETAILS AND RULES WHO MAY ENTER: • “Sing Sorors! Sing!” is open to all sorors that are financial members of a collegiate chapter or alumnae chapter, or a member-at-large for the 2014-2015 fiscal year; that means that both local and national dues have been paid, with funds processed accordingly. Current membership will be verified at national headquarters. • Each choir member must be a member-at-large or a financial member of a chapter in the region being represented. In other words, the choir may consist of members from multiple chapters and varying states but all choir members must be from the same region. • All choirs participating in this competition must have at least 12 choir members and no more than 100 choir members. Entries that do not meet this given minimum and maximum number for choir members will not be accepted for participation in this choir competition. • This competition is OPEN to any active sorority member that will take responsibility for forming a group of other active members to enter this competition as a choir. • This competition is not just for chapters that may already have a singing ensemble or choir, nor is it specifically for a regional choir that assembled and performed during any previous regional conference cycle. • There are no prerequisites that a choir member must already be a member of a group that performs especially for sorority events. • Choirs that have a music recording contract or national distribution deal are NOT eligible to participate in this competition; individual choir members that are members of the sorority are eligible to participate. • A member may participate in more than one choir, but must still be within the same region. • Musicians accompanying the choir are not required to be active members or even members of the sorority. Sing Sorors! Sing! Choir Competition Entry Packet Page 2 HOW TO ENTER: • To enter the choir competition, each choir must make certain submissions by mail and email: o Via mail to national headquarters, POSTMARKED by January 13, 2015: (1) A completed Choir Competition Entry Packet, which includes Entry Forms #1-6 and signed by all necessary parties; (2) A $100 Entry Fee (cashier’s check or money order) o Via email to [email protected] and RECEIVED by January 13, 2015: (3) Two audio recordings, one in which the choir sings either an original song or a unique arrangement of or a new work based upon, a gospel song that is in the public domain, and a second recording in which the choir sings the preselected competition song, “Total Praise” by Richard Smallwood. (4) A scanned copy of the same Choir Competition Entry Packet that is being mailed to national headquarters; a copy of the entry fee cashier’s check or money order must also be included. (5) The two audio files and entry packet may be submitted as a single “compressed/zipped” file or by using up to three (3) emails. When submitting multiple emails include this phrase in the subject line: Email #1 of 3 (this denotes that there will be 3 emails and this is the first of the three; the second email will have Email #2 of 3; the third email will then have Email #3 of 3; all 3 emails MUST be RECEIVED by January 13, 2015.) See the following for more detailed entry requirements: o The Choir Competition Entry Packet includes the following forms which will be available for online access (SIGNED ORIGINALS of all entry forms must be mailed to national headquarters and the Choir Representative must retain a copy of the executed forms.): (1) Form #1: Choir Competition Entry Form -- must be completed and signed by the designated Choir Representative. (2) Form #2: Song Titles Sheet (3) Form #3: The Choir Representative should submit EITHER Form #3A or #3B, depending upon whether the Choir performs an original song (original melody and lyrics) or a song that is either a unique arrangement of, or a new work based upon, a public domain song. Both forms require the completion of contact information for each soror that is a composer or arranger. Please use the two lines provided by typing or printing the soror’s name on the first name and have the soror place her signature on the line below the typed/printed name. • Form #3A: Composers Grant and Release – must be signed by ALL composers of any original song (original melody and lyrics) the Choir uses to enter the competition. A copy of the scored music for this song would be beneficial, but is not a requirement. A COPY OF THE SONG LYRICS MUST BE SUBMITTED WITH THE FORM. Sing Sorors! Sing! Choir Competition Entry Packet • Page 3 Form #3B: Arrangers Grant and Release – must be signed by ALL arrangers (those who created an original arrangement of, or a new work based upon, a public domain song, the recorded performance of which is being submitted for competition). A copy of the scored music for this song would be beneficial, but is not a requirement. A COPY OF THE SONG LYRICS MUST BE SUBMITTED WITH THE FORM. (4) Form #4: Choir Grant and Release – must be completed and signed by the Choir Representative. (5) Form #5: Choir Members Grant and Release – must be signed by ALL Choir Members. (6) Form #6: Musicians Grant and Release – must be signed by ALL Choir Musicians. o The Entry Fee of $100 must be mailed to national headquarters along with the original, signed entry forms, and postmarked no later than January 13, 2015; a scanned copy of the cashier’s check or money order must be a part of the emailed packet to be received by January 13, 2015. o Audio recordings of two (2) gospel songs: Song #1 - An original song (original melody and lyrics) or an original arrangement of, or new work based upon, a public domain gospel song. The song must be scripture based. The song may be an original (unique) arrangement of a song (such as a church hymn or an old gospel song) that is in the public domain, or a new work based upon a public domain song, provided you have or obtain a copy of the public domain arrangement before starting your unique arrangement or new work. For example, public domain arrangements may be found on the following list of Public Domain Music: http://www.pdinfo.com/Public-Domain-Music-List.php Original songs cannot already be published by a music publisher, recorded and distributed by a recording company, or subject to a publishing or recording/distribution contract. Composers must hold all intellectual property rights in their original song. The composer(s) of any original song and arranger(s) using public domain songs must be a financial member(s) of a collegiate chapter, alumnae chapter or a member-at-large for the 2014-2015 fiscal year. The song should showcase the choir, not just a soloist; the sound of the entire choir is what will be judged. The theme of the Arts and Letters’ Legacy CD to be produced is “RELEVANT”; therefore, it is our request that the song convey matters of “Relevance,” if possible. The word relevant or relevance does not have to be a part of the lyrics. Song #2 - The second audio recording should be that of the choir performing the song “Total Praise,” by Richard Smallwood, from the CD “Adoration – Live in Atlanta” (1996). Sing Sorors! Sing! • • • • • • • Choir Competition Entry Packet Page 4 The choir’s recording should be the same arrangement used on the “Adoration – Live in Atlanta” CD (except that the length of the choir’s submission should not exceed 3 minutes) and not any re-arrangement or re-mix that sounds substantially different from that arrangement. Smallwood’s recording is more than seven minutes in length, but has some lyrics/verses repeated before and after the “Amen” section is performed. Please DO NOT omit the “Amen” section as you comply with the 3 minute maximum time requirement for the choir’s submission. This song will be used by the judges to facilitate comparison between all choir submissions, so do your best and sound your best! Each recording submitted may be no more than 3 minutes in length. The length of your submission, in minutes and seconds, should be reflected on the entry form. Any submission that exceeds 3 minutes will not qualify for the competition. There are no extra points for display of workmanship of the musicians or a soloist; judging will be based strictly on the sound of the choir! All expenses incurred for a choir’s recordings are the responsibility of the choir, and not the National Arts and Letters Commission or the sorority. The audio recordings may not be engineered. No studio or technical enhancements are permitted. You may use a facility that can capture your best sound (whether a home, school, church, studio or garage), but there should be no dubbing, engineering, or any configuring that may artificially change or enhance the digital sound of the choir. The audio files must be submitted in mp3 format. This means you may use standard recording equipment (microphone and recorder), computer/tablet, smartphone, etc. to make the two recordings of the choir, but you will be responsible for converting the format to mp3 file format. The designated period for submitting and receiving entries is December 1, 2014 to January 13, 2015. In other words, starting on December 1, choirs may submit their entry forms, fees, and audio files via mail and email. Be sure to keep a copy of everything submitted. All MAILED submissions (with fees) must be POSTMARKED and mailed to national headquarters by January 13, 2015. • All EMAILED submissions must be RECEIVED by January 13, 2015. PROGRESSION TO BECOMING THE NATIONAL WINNING CHOIR: Audio recordings submitted by choirs will go through two (2) rounds of judging. Round 1: Members of the National Arts and Letters Commission will judge each choir using "The Voice" blind audition model. Upon receipt of the audio files and entry forms, the electronic files will be stored and labeled with an assigned choir identification designed to keep the choir’s name, region, and name of participants confidential. A designated member of the National Arts and Letters Commission, who will not serve as a judge, will serve as the “gatekeeper” for the special email account being used for this competition. Upon receipt of electronic choir entries, the gatekeeper will assign a sequential number, starting with the number one. The choir’s name, region, and name of participants will only be released after the National Winning Choir has been chosen. Sing Sorors! Sing! Choir Competition Entry Packet Page 5 The judges will be presented the audio files with the assigned choir identification. Each judge will evaluate each choir using the criteria defined below. The judges’ scores for each choir will be averaged to obtain a final score. The gatekeeper will then sort the choirs’ results according to the choirs’ regions. The choir with the highest final score for each region will be declared the winner for that region. If there is a tie for the top score for any region, there will be a special round of blind judging to determine the region winner. Round 2: Seven (7) finalists (one choir from each region) will be judged by a 3 to 5 person panel of national gospel recording artists or other experts who are not members of the Sorority or sorors. This round will also use the blind audition model. Each judge will evaluate each choir using the criteria listed below to determine the ranking. The rankings for each choir will be added up to obtain a final score. The choir with the highest final score will be named the National Winning Choir of “Sing Sorors! Sing!” IMPORTANT DATES: December 1, 2014 to January 13, 2015 = Submission period January 13, 2015 = Deadline date for submissions (All mailed submissions must be postmarked by this date; all emailed submissions must be received by this date.) January 20, 2015 = Round 1 completed February 3, 2015 = Round 2 completed February 10, 2015 = Announcement of the National Winning Choir JUDGING CRITERIA: Choirs will be judged based upon the following criteria, with scoring based on the highest overall total scores: • Diction (are words clearly understood) 15 points • Intonation (are the singers on pitch) 15 points • Tone Quality (quality of voice projection) 20 points • Attacks and Releases (uniform attacks and releases) 15 points • Presentation (was the message conveyed) 20 points • Audience Appeal (pleasing to the listener) 15 points Each song will be scored using the judging criteria above and then the judges’ totals for each choir will be averaged. The highest total score any choir can receive will be 200 points (a maximum of 100 points for each of the two songs submitted). The ultimate goal of the competition is to find the “best sounding” choir in the sorority. It is not a matter of which choir submits the best original song but which choir sounds the best performing both songs submitted. RULES & REGULATIONS • Chapters that already have a choir should encourage their choir to participate in the competition. This project could also be used to reactivate membership and strengthen the choir with more voices and support, all leading to a better sound. Sing Sorors! Sing! • • • • • • • • • • Choir Competition Entry Packet Page 6 A choir wishing to enter the competition is not required to be affiliated with any chapter, church or other organization. Any member active with a chapter or holding membership as a member-at-large can form a choir strictly for this competition. Any member or group of members forming a choir for this competition must choose a name for the choir, which shall be used on all entry forms. A Choir Representative must be designated who shall be responsible for reviewing the competition rules and entry requirements with the Choir members, composers, arrangers, and musicians, ensuring that the eligibility requirements are met, and securing the necessary signatures on the entry forms. ALL choir directors and choir members MUST be currently financial (2014-2015) as a member-at-large or with a chapter in the region they will be representing. We encourage choir members to unite with sorority members across the state or region to make the choir sound stronger and enhance the choir’s presentation. All choirs are responsible for all of their expenses, including but not limited to travel, food, lodging, and costs incurred in generating the two audio recordings, which includes costs associated with securing facilities used for rehearsal, payment of musicians, and any other recording costs. All members of the choir chosen as the National Winning Choir will be required to register for the 2015 National Convention in order to participate at the national convention. If a choir is disqualified, $25 of the entry fee will be retained for administrative purposes and the remaining $75 will be refunded to the choir; a check will be made payable to the Choir’s Representative, as designated on Form #1. A choir may be disqualified for the following reasons, among others: o Missing the submissions deadline for any required submission. o Submitting an audio recording that exceeds the maximum 3 minutes allowed. o Submitting an audio recording that is in an improper format (not mp3). o Submitting entry forms that have not been completed properly. o Including in the choir members who are not financial with a chapter in the region represented, or as a member-at-large. Reasonable attempts will be made to contact a choir to correct any disqualifying issues discovered before the deadline, but if an issue is not discovered in time for the choir to resolve the issue prior to the deadline, then the choir will be disqualified. Ultimately, it is the Choir Representative’s responsibility, and not Delta’s, to confirm that the eligibility requirements are met before entering the choir into the competition. Any audio or scored music submitted will be considered for use in the production of the Arts and Letters’ Legacy CD, as well as other projects that may be undertaken by the National Arts and Letters Commission. This means the musical compositions, arrangements, and/or sound recordings may be used as is, in whole or in part, and that the song may be performed and recorded by others to meet the needs of the Commission. The Choir Representative, composer(s), and/or arranger(s)/creator(s) will receive notification from the National Arts and Letters Commission if Delta decides to use any submitted original song, arrangement, or performance in any way. Sing Sorors! Sing! Choir Competition Entry Packet Page 7 PRIZES AND AWARDS: All choirs participating in the choir competition will be recognized on Delta’s public website in a special report from the National Arts and Letters Commission. Composers and arrangers will receive national exposure for their work and talent as they also will be recognized in the special report for their submissions. Each region’s winning choir will be featured in the Commission’s special report. The National Winning Choir will receive: o A $1,000 cash award, which shall be presented to the choir with the intent that it be given as a scholarship to a student of their choice who is pursuing music. o The HONOR and distinction of opening for the Gospel Concert, taking place at the 52nd National Convention in Houston, TX during the summer of 2015. The National Arts and Letters Commission will work with the choir in determining the songs to be performed. o A recording session for the choir to be featured on the Arts and Letters’ Legacy CD. Special arrangements will be worked out with the choir for the recording session. Choir members will be asked to assist with keeping travel costs to a minimum. REMINDER: An entry is completed when ALL entry forms, songs (lyrics and mp3), AND the entry fee have been received in accordance with the deadlines stated in the rules. Mailed submissions must be POSTMARKED by January 13, 2015; and emailed submissions must be RECEIVED by January 13, 2015. FOR QUESTIONS OR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT: Orbra H. Porter, Member (Primary Contact – Chair of Project Sub-Committee)) National Arts and Letters Commission Email: [email protected] Phone: (601) 981-9199 Essie M. Jeffries, Chair National Arts and Letters Commission Email: [email protected] Phone: (213) 503-3178 Missy Daniels, National Staff Email: [email protected] Phone: (202) 498-3642 Sing Sorors! Sing! Page 8 Choir Competition Entry Packet Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. National Arts and Letters Commission Sing Sorors! Sing! CHOIR COMPETITION ENTRY FORM #1 Please type or print clearly REGION: NAME OF CHOIR: Number of Singers: Number of Musicians: Choir Representative: First Name: Last Name: Address: City State: Zip Code: Daytime Phone#: Cell Phone#: Email Address: My signature below acknowledges that I have reviewed the Choir Competition Entry Packet with all choir members, musicians, composers, and arrangers/creators of songs for which the choir performances are submitted, and have disseminated to them a copy of all forms and requirements. I agree to abide by all requirements imposed upon me, as the Choir Director/ Representative for “Sing Sorors! Sing!” I also agree to do my best to ensure that each choir member adheres to the competition requirements. Signature: Date: (Choir Representative) Include the following for completion of entry: Completed Entry Forms (Forms #1-6 ) Entry Fee ($100) Two Audio files (mp3 format – submitted via email only, with lyrics for Song #1) Please remit cashier’s check or money order payable to: Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Memo: Sing Sorors! Sing! Choir Competition Mail payment and entry form to: Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. c/o Missy Daniels 1707 New Hampshire Ave., NW Washington, DC 20009 Sing Sorors! Sing! Page 9 Choir Competition Entry Packet Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. National Arts and Letters Commission Sing Sorors! Sing! ENTRY FORM #2 Please type or print clearly SONG TITLES RECORDED AND BEING SUBMITTED: REGION: NAME OF CHOIR: Number of Singers: Number of Musicians: Song #1: Song Title: Song based on what Scripture (book of the Bible + verse): This Song is (check one): Original (submit Form #3A) Based on a public domain song (submit Form #3B) If based on public domain song, what is the title of the song in public domain? Recorded Time: (minutes) (seconds) (Must be 3 minutes or less) * Lyrics to Song #1 and the scored music (if available) are to accompany this form Song #2: Song Title: “Total Praise” by Richard Smallwood Recorded Time: (minutes) (seconds) (Must be 3 minutes or less) Sing Sorors! Sing! Page 10 Choir Competition Entry Packet Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. National Arts and Letters Commission Sing Sorors! Sing! ENTRY FORM #3A Please type or print clearly COMPOSER(S) GRANT AND RELEASE: REGION: NAME OF CHOIR: TITLE OF ORIGINAL SONG: The term “Composer” or “Composers” as used herein refers to the sorority member or members who created the lyrics and melody which constitute the above-titled “original song,” (“the Song”). A copy of the song lyrics is attached. The Choir named above (“the Choir”) is submitting a recording of its performance of the Song and a copy of the Song lyrics in order to enter the Sing Sorors! Sing! competition. In consideration of the opportunity for the song to be used and promoted related to the competition, the undersigned Composer(s) hereby attest and agree to the following: Composer(s) certify that the Song is original, was created entirely by the undersigned Composer(s), has not been recorded and distributed previously by any recording agent, group or company, and is not currently subject to any arranging, recording or distribution contract. I/We certify that the undersigned Composer(s) hold exclusive rights to the Song, including the arrangement performed by the Choir in its competition submissions. I/We represent and warrant that in composing the Song, we have not infringed the intellectual property of any third party, and I/we agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Delta, its National Executive Board, its officers, employees, members, attorneys, and agents, from and against any liabilities associated with any claims that the Song as composed by the undersigned infringes the intellectual property rights of any third party. Composer(s) have granted the Choir permission to use the Song for the following limited purposes: to perform the Song, record the performance, and distribute an audio file of its performance of the Song to Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated (“Delta”) in accordance with competition rules, for distribution to the competition judges, solely for the evaluation of the Choir’s performance related to the competition. The Composer(s) also have granted permission for the Choir to distribute to Delta a copy of the sheet music and/or song lyrics, for use by Delta related to the competition. Additionally, the undersigned Composer(s) hereby grant to Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, for the period beginning at 12:01 AM, EST, January 14, 2015 and ending at midnight, EST, June 30, 2016, (“the Assignment Period”) a universal, exclusive, royalty-free, sub-licensable and transferable license to use the Song in any and all media formats; to perform publicly or arrange the public performance of the Song by any artist or artists, including but not limited to the choirs participating in this competition (with or without also recording and distributing the performance); to prepare derivative works of the Song; to synchronize the song with video and Sing Sorors! Sing! Choir Competition Entry Packet Page 11 broadcast, stream, or otherwise display it publicly; and to advertise, promote, sell, or otherwise distribute recordings of the Song, including recordings of performances of the Song arranged by Delta. During the Assignment Period, I/we will not release the Song to anyone else or use the Song for any creative or commercial purpose. The undersigned Composer(s) also grant Delta the exclusive right, in perpetuity, to receive all fees, commissions, royalties, or profits received related to Delta’s use of the Song during the Assignment Period. At midnight, EST, June 30, 2016, all rights in the Song shall revert back to the undersigned Composer(s), except that Delta will retain in perpetuity the right to reproduce, advertise, market, sell, or otherwise distribute any recordings of the Song or derivative works that were made under Delta’s direction during the Assignment Period, and to receive exclusively in perpetuity any related fees, commissions, royalties, or profits. The undersigned Composer(s) agree that any audio or scored representation of the Song submitted for the competition will be considered for use in the production of the Arts and Letters’ Legacy CD, for use during the 2015 National Convention, including the Gospel Concert, as well as other projects that may be completed by the National Arts and Letters Commission during the Assignment Period. This means the Song may be used as is, portions may be used, or it may be performed and recorded by others to meet the needs of the Commission, as deemed necessary by the Commission. The undersigned Composer(s) understand and agree that, during the Assignment Period, I/we will receive notification from the National Arts and Letters Commission of any use of the Song, but not the right to approve or veto such use. The undersigned Composer(s) also understand and agree that I/we will be credited as the composer(s) of the original Song in any materials Delta uses in promoting the Song, and whenever Delta identifies or refers to the Song by title in any communication or documentation released to the full Delta membership or to the public (such as CD song listings or event programs). The undersigned Composer(s) hereby authorize Delta to use their name(s), likeness(es), biographical information, and geographical location or affiliation for broadcast, advertising, and promotional purposes related to this competition, the 2015 National Convention, including the Gospel Concert, and the Arts and Letters’ Legacy CD, without notice, review, or approval; and we hereby release, indemnify, and hold harmless Delta from and against any and all claims arising out of any such use. Affirmed and Acknowledged by: [Signature page(s) to follow] Sing Sorors! Sing! Page 12 Choir Competition Entry Packet ALL Composers of the Song must provide contact information and sign below: Please type or print clearly Soror’s Name and Signature Street Address City/State Home Phone Cell Phone Email Address Chapter Name or Member-At-Large 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 ** Copy this page to provide a complete listing of ALL composers (10 names per page). Member# Date Sing Sorors! Sing! Page 13 Choir Competition Entry Packet Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. National Arts and Letters Commission Sing Sorors! Sing! ENTRY FORM #3B Please type or print clearly ARRANGER(S) GRANT AND RELEASE: REGION: NAME OF CHOIR: TITLE OF PUBLIC DOMAIN SONG: TITLE OF UNIQUE ARRANGEMENT OR NEW WORK BASED UPON PUBLIC DOMAIN SONG: The term “Arranger” or “Arrangers” as used herein refers to the sorority member or members who have created an original arrangement of, or a new work based upon, the above-named public domain song. That original arrangement or new work shall hereinafter be referred to as “the Song.” The Choir named above (“the Choir”) is submitting a recording of its performance of the Song to enter the Sing Sorors! Sing! competition. In consideration of the opportunity for the Song to be used and promoted related to the competition, the undersigned Arranger(s) hereby attest and agree to the following: Arranger(s) certify that the Song is a unique arrangement of, or a new work based upon, a song that is in the public domain; that the Song was created solely by the undersigned Arranger(s); and that the Song has not been recorded and distributed previously by any recording agent, group or company, and is not currently subject to any recording or distribution contract. I/We certify that the undersigned Arranger(s) hold exclusive rights in the Song. I/We represent and warrant that in creating the Song, we have not infringed the intellectual property of any third party, and I/we agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Delta, its National Executive Board, its officers, employees, members, attorneys, and agents, from and against any liabilities associated with any claims that the Song, as arranged or created by the undersigned, infringes the intellectual property rights of any third party. Arranger(s) have granted the Choir permission to use the Song for the following limited purposes: to perform the Song, record the performance, and distribute an audio file of its performance of the Song to Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated (“Delta”) in accordance with competition rules, for distribution to the competition judges, solely for the evaluation of the Choir’s performance related to the competition. The Arranger(s) also have granted permission for the Choir to distribute to Delta a copy of the sheet music and/or song lyrics, for use by Delta related to the competition. Additionally, the undersigned Arranger(s) hereby grant to Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, for the period beginning at 12:01 AM, EST, January 14, 2015 and ending at midnight, Sing Sorors! Sing! Choir Competition Entry Packet Page 14 EST, June 30, 2016, (“the Assignment Period”) a universal, exclusive, royalty-free, sub-licensable and transferable license to use the Song in any and all media formats; to perform publicly or arrange the public performance of the Song by any artist or artists, including but not limited to the choirs participating in this competition (with or without also recording and distributing the performance); to prepare derivative works; to synchronize the Song with video and broadcast, stream, or otherwise display it publicly; and to advertise, promote, sell, or otherwise distribute recordings of the Song, including recordings of performances of the Song arranged by Delta. During the Assignment Period, I/we will not release the Song to anyone else or use the Song for any creative or commercial purpose. The undersigned Arranger(s) also grant Delta the exclusive right, in perpetuity, to receive all fees, commissions, royalties, or profits received related to Delta’s use of the Song during the Assignment Period. At midnight, EST, June 30, 2016, all rights in the Song shall revert back to the undersigned Arranger(s), except that Delta will retain in perpetuity the right to reproduce, advertise, market, sell, or otherwise distribute any recordings of the Song or derivative works that were made under Delta’s direction during the Assignment Period, and to receive exclusively in perpetuity any related fees, commissions, royalties, or profits. The undersigned Arranger(s) agree that any audio or scored representation of the Song submitted for the competition will be considered for use in the production of the Arts and Letters’ Legacy CD, for use during the 2015 National Convention, including the Gospel Concert, as well as other projects that may be completed by the National Arts and Letters Commission during the Assignment Period. This means the Song may be used as is, portions may be used, or it may be performed and recorded by others to meet the needs of the Commission, as deemed necessary by the Commission. The undersigned Arranger(s) understand and agree that, during the Song Period, I/we will receive notification from the National Arts and Letters Commission of any use of the Song, but not the right to approve or veto such use. The undersigned Arranger(s) also understand and agree that I/we will be credited related to any use by Delta of the Song. (e.g., CD song listings; event programs, etc.). I/We understand that Delta is not obligated to credit the undersigned Arranger(s) if it uses the underlying public domain song without using the particular arrangement or new work based upon the public domain song as submitted. The undersigned Arranger(s) hereby authorize Delta to use their name(s), likeness(es), biographical information, and geographical location or affiliation for broadcast, advertising, and promotional purposes related to this competition, the 2015 National Convention, including the Gospel Concert, and the Arts and Letters’ Legacy CD, without notice, review, or approval; and we hereby release, indemnify, and hold harmless Delta from and against any and all claims arising out of any such use. Affirmed and Acknowledged by: [Signature page(s) to follow] Sing Sorors! Sing! Choir Competition Entry Packet Page 15 ALL Arrangers (as defined above) must provide their contact information and sign below . Please type or print clearly Soror’s Name and Signature Street Address City/State Home Phone Email Address Cell Phone Chapter Name or Member-At-Large 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 ** Copy this page to provide a complete listing of ALL Arrangers (10 names per page) Member# Date Sing Sorors! Sing! Page 16 Choir Competition Entry Packet Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. National Arts and Letters Commission Sing Sorors! Sing! ENTRY FORM #4 Please type or print clearly CHOIR GRANT AND RELEASE: REGION: NAME OF CHOIR: The members of the above-named Choir (“Choir Members”) desire to compete in the Sing Sorors! Sing! choir competition. I hereby certify that I have been designated the Choir Representative by the Choir Members. I have shared all of the information in the Competition Entry Packet with all Choir Members, including disseminating to each member this Choir Grant and Release form and the Choir Members Grant and Release form (“Members Release”) and collecting from each member her signature on the Members Release, which among other rights and obligations, authorizes me to serve as representative of the choir members and to sign this Choir Grant and Release on their behalf. I have submitted to the national headquarters of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated (“Delta”), as a part of the competition entry packet, the originals of this executed Choir Grant and Release and the executed Members Release, and have retained in my files a copy of each. In consideration of acceptance of participation in the competition, the Choir and all of its Members (hereinafter “we”) agree to the following terms and conditions: We agree and acknowledge that we plan to participate in the Sing Sorors! Sing! competition of our own accord. We acknowledge this freely and knowingly, and represent and warrant to Delta and its National Arts and Letters Commission that we are physically and mentally fit and able to participate, and that we assume responsibility for our own well-being. We hereby waive any and all rights or claims we may have related to participation in the competition against Delta, including against its National Executive Board, officers, employees, members, attorneys, and agents, and all individuals and entities assisting in and conducting the contest and related activities, and hereby release and discharge them from any and all liability, loss, claims, demands, costs (including but not limited to settlement or court costs), fees (including but not limited to attorneys’ fees), or other expenses resulting from or related to any physical injuries, including death, and any damage or loss to person or property, which may accrue to us or our heirs arising out of, or in any way related to our participation in any activities associated with the competition. We agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Delta, its National Executive Board, its officers, employees, members, attorneys, and agents, and all individuals and entities assisting in and conducting these activities in conjunction with Delta, from any and all liability, loss, claims, demands, costs (including but not limited to settlement or court costs), fees (including but not limited to attorney fees), or other expenses resulting from or related to any physical injuries, including death, or any damage or loss to person or property, which may accrue to us or our heirs Sing Sorors! Sing! Choir Competition Entry Packet Page 17 arising out of or in any way related to participation in the activities. We hereby acknowledge and agree that the sound recordings on audio files submitted for the competition (“Submissions”) shall upon submission, become the property of Delta, and that Delta shall, upon their submission, receive all of our rights, title, and interest in the Submissions, in perpetuity, anywhere in the world, including the right to make any and all uses thereof, without compensation to us, including, without limitation, for purposes of advertising or trade. This includes, but is not limited to Delta’s right to use, reproduce, and distribute the Submissions for purpose of selecting the National Winning Choir; to use, reproduce, adapt, engineer, reformat, promote, and sell or otherwise distribute copies of the Submissions and/or reproductions or versions or adaptations thereof, as desired related to the 2015 National Convention, including the Gospel Concert, the Arts and Letters’ Legacy CD, or any other Delta project or undertaking, and Delta’s right to receive any and all fees, commissions, royalties, or profits related to Delta’s use in any manner of the Submissions. We further waive, in favor of Delta, all moral rights in the Submissions. We hereby authorize Delta to use the Choir’s and/or its Members’ name(s), likeness(es), biographical information, and geographical location or affiliation for broadcast, advertising, and promotional purposes related to this competition, the 2015 National Convention, including the Gospel Concert, and the Arts and Letters’ Legacy CD, without notice, review, or approval; and we hereby release, indemnify, and hold harmless Delta from and against any and all claims arising out of any such use. We further grant to Delta the right to record, film, photograph, video record (make “Recordings” of) any or all of the Choir’s performances during the Delta 2015 National Convention, including the Gospel Concert, or related to the production of the Arts and Letters’ Legacy CD, and to use, reproduce, stream, allow the public performance, market, sell or otherwise distribute such Recordings, in whole or in part. We hereby assign to Delta all rights to fees, commissions, royalties, or profits received as the result of Delta’s use of such Recordings. By entering the competition, we agree to be bound by the decisions of the judges. We understand that should a written, signed complaint regarding ineligibility of any National Winning Choir member be registered with national headquarters within thirty (30) days following announcement of the National Winning Choir, and should that complaint be determined accurate, in the sole discretion of Delta’s National President, in consultation with the Chair of the Arts and Letters Commission, the choir will be disqualified, and the prize will be awarded to the next highest scoring choir. We understand and agree that there shall be NO right to contest the eligibility of the National Winning Choir more than thirty (30) days after the date of announcement of the National Winning Choir. We acknowledge and agree that no responsibility or liability shall be assumed by Delta, its National Executive Board, officers, employees, members, attorneys, or agents, or any contest judges for technical problems or technical malfunction, in whole or in part, for any reason, beyond Delta’s reasonable discovery and/or control and which may affect the competition, including but not limited to hardware or software errors or malfunctions, faulty computer, email, telephone, satellite, wireless or internet connectivity, or other online communication problems; errors or limitations of any internet service providers, servers, hosts, or providers; garbled, jumbled or faulty data transmissions; failure of any email transmissions to be sent or received; lost, late, delayed or intercepted email transmissions; traffic congestion on the internet; unauthorized tampering, hacking, Sing Sorors! Sing! Choir Competition Entry Packet Page 18 theft, viruses, bugs, worms. We understand the importance of using automatic receipt/confirmation email features, or otherwise to request confirmation of receipt after emailing any audio files or other submissions. We acknowledge and agree that District of Columbia law governs this competition, and that any disputes concerning the construction, validity, interpretation, and enforceability of the agreements made, or the rights and obligations of entrants and Delta in connection with the competition, shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with the laws of the District of Columbia, without giving any effect to any choice of law or conflict of law rules or provisions that would cause the application of the laws of any jurisdiction other than the District of Columbia. We agree that any disputes, claims, or causes of action related to this competition shall be resolved individually, between Delta and the designated Choir Representative, and without resort to any form of class action. Moreover, we agree that any such disputes, claims, or causes of action, if unable to be resolved outside of litigation, shall be adjudicated only in the courts of the District of Columbia or in the federal courts located in the District of Columbia, and we hereby waive the right to challenge personal jurisdiction or venue in the District of Columbia. We further acknowledge and agree that in the event of any claim or dispute, our sole remedy shall be limited to proven damages, if any, and we shall not have the right in any way to enjoin or restrain the creative or commercial use, distribution, advertising, publicizing, or other exploitation by Delta of any Submissions or Recordings (as defined in the Choir Grant and Release) related to the competition. Affirmed and Acknowledged by: Please type or print clearly Name of Choir Representative: Signature: Date: Sing Sorors! Sing! Page 19 Choir Competition Entry Packet Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. National Arts and Letters Commission Sing Sorors! Sing! ENTRY FORM #5 Please type or print clearly CHOIR MEMBERS GRANT AND RELEASE: REGION: NAME OF CHOIR: In consideration of being authorized to compete as a member of the above-named Choir in the Sing Sorors! Sing! competition, the undersigned hereby agree to the following terms and conditions: The undersigned Choir Members have designated______________________________________ (print or type the name of the Choir Representative) as the Choir Representative for purposes of the competition, and, by our signatures below, authorize the Choir Representative to sign the Choir Grant and Release, which, among other things, acknowledges that competition Submissions, as defined in the Choir Grant and Release, become the exclusive property of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated (“Delta”), and that their submission confers upon Delta all of our rights, title, and interest in the submissions, as noted in the Choir Grant and Release. We acknowledge and agree also that Delta has the exclusive right to record and use any Choir performances related to the competition, as described in the Choir Grant and Release. We agree to the use of our names, voices, likenesses, photographs and/or images, without further notice, permission, compensation or consideration, in any and all media now known or hereafter developed, related to this competition, and hereby fully release and discharge Delta from any and all claims which may accrue to us or our heirs arising out of or in any way connected with such use. We agree and acknowledge that we are participating in the competition of our own accord. We give this acknowledgment freely and knowingly and represent and warrant that we are physically and mentally fit and that, as a result, able to participate, and hereby assume responsibility for our own well-being. We are fully aware that possible physical injury could occur as a result of participation in the competition, and we agree to assume the full risk, including risk that is not specifically foreseeable, of any injuries, including death, bodily injury, damage to body, health or property, or loss, regardless of severity, which we may sustain as a result of participating in any and all activities connected or associated with the competition. We hereby waive any and all rights or claims we may have as a result of participation against Delta, its National Executive Board, officers, employees, members, staff, and all individuals and entities assisting in instructing and conducting these activities, and hereby fully release and discharge them from any and all claims resulting from or related to injuries, including death, damages, or loss, which may accrue to us or our heirs arising out of or in any way related to our participation. We agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Delta, its National Executive Board, its officers, employees, members, attorneys, agents, and all individuals assisting in instructing and conducting Sing Sorors! Sing! Choir Competition Entry Packet Page 20 these activities, from any and all claims resulting from injuries, including death, damages, or loss, which may accrue to us or our heirs arising out of or in any way related to our participation in the competition. By entering the competition, we agree to be bound by the decisions of the judges. We understand that, following announcement of the National Winning Choir, should a written, signed complaint regarding ineligibility of any National Winning Choir member be registered with national headquarters within thirty (30) days following the competition, and should that complaint be determined accurate and substantial, in the sole discretion of Delta’s National President, in consultation with the Chair of the Arts and Letters Commission, the choir will be disqualified in favor of the next highest scoring choir. We understand and agree that there shall be NO right to contest the eligibility of the National Winning Choir once thirty (30) days have passed from announcement of the National Winning Choir. We acknowledge and agree that no responsibility or liability shall be assumed by Delta, any of its employees, members, or agents, or any contest judges for technical problems or technical malfunction beyond Delta’s reasonable discovery and/or control and which may affect the competition, including but not limited to hardware or software errors, faulty computer, email, telephone, satellite, wireless or internet connectivity, or other online communication problems; errors or limitations of any internet service providers, servers, hosts, or providers; garbled, jumbled or faulty data transmissions; failure of any email transmissions to be sent or received; lost, late, delayed or intercepted email transmissions; in whole or in part, for any reason; traffic congestion on the internet; unauthorized tampering, hacking, theft, viruses, bugs, worms. We recognize that Delta encourages entrants to use automatic receipt/confirmation email features, or to otherwise request confirmation of receipt after emailing audio files or other submissions. We acknowledge and agree that District of Columbia law governs this competition, and that any disputes concerning the construction, validity, interpretation, and enforceability of the agreements made, or the rights and obligations of entrants and Delta in connection with the competition, shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with the laws of the District of Columbia, without giving any effect to any choice of law or conflict of law rules or provisions that would cause the application of the laws of any jurisdiction other than the District of Columbia. To the extent permitted by law, we agree that any disputes, claims, or causes of action related to this competition shall be resolved individually, between Delta and the designated Choir Representative, and without resort to any form of class action. Moreover, we agree that any such disputes, claims, or causes of action, if unable to be resolved informally, will be adjudicated only in the courts of the District of Columbia or in the federal courts located in the District of Columbia, and we waive the right to challenge those courts’ jurisdiction or venue in the District of Columbia. We further acknowledge and agree that in the event of any claim or dispute, our sole remedy shall be limited to actual damages proven, if any, and we shall not have the right in any way to enjoin or restrain the use, distribution, advertising, publicizing, or other exploitation by Delta of any Submissions or Recordings (as defined in the Choir Grant and Release) related to the competition. [Signature page(s) to follow] Sing Sorors! Sing! Page 21 Choir Competition Entry Packet Choir Members’ Affirmation and Acknowledgement: By signing below, I hereby represent and warrant that I have received a copy of the Choir Grant and Release and of this Choir Member Grant and Release; that I have had an opportunity to read and ask questions about both; that I understand both Releases; that I have voluntarily granted the rights stated in the Choir Grant and Release and in this Choir Member Grant and Release; and that I am signing this Choir Member Grant and Release of my own free will. I further represent and warrant that I am of sound mind and over the age of eighteen (18) years. Please type or print clearly Soror’s Name and Signature Street Address City/State Home Phone Cell Phone Email Address Chapter Name or Member-At-Large 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 ** Copy this page to provide a complete listing of ALL choir members (10 names per page) Member# Date Sing Sorors! Sing! Page 22 Choir Competition Entry Packet Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. National Arts and Letters Commission Sing Sorors! Sing! ENTRY FORM #6 CHOIR MUSICIANS GRANT AND RELEASE: REGION: Please type or print clearly NAME OF CHOIR: We, the undersigned musicians, acknowledge that we have agreed to provide musical accompaniment for the above-named Choir (“the Choir”), related to the Choir’s participation in the the Sing Sorors! Sing! competition, pursuant to private arrangement between the undersigned and the Choir. Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated (“Delta”) has not hired or otherwise retained us, is not party to our arrangement with the Choir, and has no obligation to compensate us related to our provision of musical accompaniment to the Choir. We give this acknowledgement freely and knowingly. We hereby acknowledge and agree that the sound recordings on audio files submitted by the Choir for the competition (“Submissions”) shall, upon submission, become the property of Delta, and that Delta shall, upon their submission, receive all of our rights, title, and interest in the Submissions, in any and all media whether now known or hereafter devised, in perpetuity, anywhere in the world, including the right to make any and all uses thereof, without compensation to us, including, without limitation, for purposes of advertising or trade. This includes, but is not limited to, Delta’s right to use, reproduce and distribute the submissions for purposes of the selection of the National Winning Choir; to use, reproduce, adapt, re-engineer, reformat, promote, and sell or otherwise distribute the submissions and/or reproductions or versions or adaptations thereof, as desired related to the 2015 National Convention, the Arts and Letters’ Legacy CD, or any other Delta project or undertaking; and to receive any and all fees, commissions, royalties, or profits related to Delta’s use in any manner of the Submissions. We further waive, in favor of Delta, all moral rights in the Submissions. We hereby authorize, but do not require, Delta to use our name(s), likeness(es), biographical information, and geographical location or affiliation for broadcast, advertising and promotional purposes related to this competition, the 2015 National Convention, including the Gospel Concert, and the Arts and Letters’ Legacy CD, without notice or approval, and we hereby release, indemnify, and hold harmless Delta from and against any and all claims arising out of any such use. In consideration of the possibility that the Choir may be selected to participate in producing the Arts and Letters’ Legacy CD, or is selected to perform related to the 2015 National Convention, including the Gospel Concert, and in the event we also provide musical accompaniment for such performances, we hereby represent and warrant to Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated and its National Arts and Letters Commission that we are physically and mentally fit and able to participate, and that we assume responsibility for our own well-being. We hereby waive any and all Sing Sorors! Sing! Choir Competition Entry Packet Page 23 rights or claims we may have against Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated (“Delta”), its National Executive Board, its officers, employees, members, attorneys, agents, and all individuals and entities assisting Delta in conducting the competition, and hereby release and discharge them from any and all liability, loss, claims, demands, costs (including but not limited to settlement or court costs), fees (including but not limited to attorney fees), or other expenses resulting from or related to any physical injuries, including death, and any damage or loss to person or property, which may accrue to us or our heirs arising out of or in any way related to our participation in any activities associated with the competition. We further agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Delta, its National Executive Board, its officers, employees, members, attorneys, and agents from any and all liability, loss, claims, demands, costs (including but not limited to settlement or court costs), fees (including but not limited to attorney fees), or other expenses resulting from or related to any physical injuries, including death, or any damage or loss to person or property, which may accrue to us or our heirs arising out of or in any way related to participation in the activities. We further grant to Delta the right to record, film, photograph, video record (make “Recordings” of) any or all of our performances accompanying the Choir during the Delta 2015 National Convention, including the Gospel Concert, or related to the production of the Arts and Letters’ Legacy CD, and to use, reproduce, stream, allow the public performance, market, sell or otherwise distribute such Recordings, in whole or in part. We hereby assign to Delta all rights to fees, commissions, royalties, or profits received as the result of Delta’s use of such Recordings. Affirmed and Acknowledged by: [Signature page(s) to follow] Sing Sorors! Sing! Page 24 Choir Competition Entry Packet ALL Choir Musicians must provide contact information and sign below: Please type or print clearly Soror’s Name and Signature Street Address City/State Home Phone Cell Phone Email Address Chapter Name or Member-At-Large 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 ** Copy this page to provide a complete listing of ALL musicians (10 names per page) Member# Date Sing Sorors! Sing! Page 25 Choir Competition Entry Packet Essie M. Jeffries, Chair Edna Lee Moffitt, Co-Chair Suzzanne Douglas-Cobb, Honorary Co-Chair Daphne Maxwell-Reid, Honorary Co-Chair Commission Members Charlene D. Ayers Sabrina Barnes Alfredia Boyd Janet Bonner Evelyn Burton Gwen Brown-Felders Dayna Fleming Jamilla French Chandra Gill Felicia M. Hamilton Kimberly V. Jackson Kim Jordan Noni Smith Nicolas Joe Ann Oatis Genine L. Perez Stephanie Perry Moore Orbra H. Porter Terry Spicer Ruth P. Watson Madell Williams E. Missy Daniels - Staff Ella McNair - Staff Bernadine Stallings - Staff
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