Welcome to CHORAL MUSIC EXPERIENCE (“CME,” “we,” “us,” or “our”). These Terms and Conditions of Participation and Use (“Terms”) constitute a legally binding agreement governing your access to and use of our website, participation in any of our choral programs, enrollment in workshops, attendance at performances, and use of any related services or digital platforms provided by us. By enrolling yourself or your minor child in any of our programs, registering for any event, using our website (choralarts.site), or making any payment or donation to CME, you signify your unreserved acceptance of and agreement to be bound by these Terms, along with our separate Privacy Policy. You affirm that you are either the participant, or the parent or legal guardian of the participant who is a minor, and that you possess the legal authority to enter into this agreement on behalf of all parties involved. Should you disagree with any portion of these Terms, you are prohibited from participating in our programs and should discontinue using our services immediately. We reserve the right to modify these Terms at any time without prior individual notice, and any such modifications shall be effective immediately upon posting the updated Terms on our website. Your continued participation and use of our services following the posting of revised Terms constitutes your acceptance of the changes. It is your responsibility to review these Terms periodically for updates to ensure you remain fully compliant and informed of the conditions governing your engagement with our organization. This comprehensive agreement is designed to ensure a safe, professional, and clear environment for all members of the CHORAL MUSIC EXPERIENCE community, balancing the high artistic standards we uphold with clear administrative and legal boundaries.

1. Enrollment, Tuition, and Financial Policies

Clear Guidelines for Program Registration, Fee Structures, and Refund Procedures

1.1 Program Enrollment and Placement

Enrollment in CHORAL MUSIC EXPERIENCE programs, including the Junior Choir, Youth Chorale, Concert Choir, and Adult Community Chorus, is granted based on specific age requirements, program capacity, and, for certain advanced youth ensembles, a low-pressure vocal placement session conducted by our Artistic Director or a designated instructor. This placement session is strictly for assessing vocal maturity, range, and current musical literacy to ensure the singer is placed in the ensemble that will best facilitate their artistic development, maximizing both their learning potential and the collective sound of the choir. Enrollment is confirmed only upon submission of the completed online registration forms, which includes all required medical and emergency contact information, and the successful processing of the initial tuition payment or execution of an approved payment plan agreement. CME reserves the exclusive right to determine the appropriate ensemble placement for any singer based on our professional assessment, and while we strive to accommodate preferences, final decisions regarding placement are made in the best interest of the individual singer’s growth and the overall balance of the ensemble. Enrollment is typically structured seasonally, and continued participation in subsequent seasons requires timely re-registration and renewed commitment to all financial obligations as outlined in this agreement and the accompanying seasonal fee schedule provided to all current members.

1.2 Tuition, Fees, and Payment Obligations

Participation in CHORAL MUSIC EXPERIENCE programs is subject to the timely payment of Tuition Fees, which cover instruction costs, use of rehearsal materials, sheet music rental, and performance costs (such as venue rental and professional instrumental accompaniment), ensuring the delivery of high-quality artistic programming throughout the season. The current schedule of tuition and other applicable fees (e.g., uniform costs, optional retreat fees) is published on our website and provided in detail during the registration process, and all amounts are stated in United States Dollars (USD). You agree to remit all tuition fees and associated charges by the deadlines specified in the official registration invoice. We offer various payment options, which may include one-time payments or pre-approved installment plans, and you are responsible for adhering to the specific dates and amounts defined in your chosen plan. Failure to meet financial obligations or adherence to the agreed-upon payment schedule may, at the sole discretion of CME, result in the temporary suspension of the participant from rehearsals and performances until the outstanding balance is satisfied. Repeated non-compliance with financial terms may lead to permanent termination of enrollment, and any administrative costs incurred by CME in attempting to recover delinquent funds may be charged to the participant’s account.

1.3 Refund and Withdrawal Policy

Enrollment in our programs involves significant financial planning on the part of CHORAL MUSIC EXPERIENCE, including securing instructors, booking performance venues, and purchasing non-refundable materials, all of which are based on confirmed enrollment numbers. Therefore, our refund policy is strictly enforced to maintain the financial stability and quality of our programs. If a participant must withdraw from a program before the official season start date, a full refund of tuition paid, minus a non-refundable administrative processing fee (the amount of which will be clearly stated in the registration materials), may be granted. Once the official season start date has passed, tuition fees are non-refundable, regardless of the reason for withdrawal (including illness, scheduling conflicts, or voluntary departure) and regardless of whether the participant attends any or all remaining scheduled activities. Exceptions to this strict policy will only be considered in extraordinary circumstances, such as a documented, debilitating medical emergency preventing the singer from participating for the duration of the season, and any such exceptions are subject to the sole, final decision of the CME Board and must be supported by verifiable documentation. All requests for withdrawal and potential refunds must be submitted in writing via email to the administrative office, clearly stating the reason and effective date of withdrawal, ensuring clear record-keeping of the financial transaction.

2. Participant Conduct and Performance Expectations

Standards of Behavior, Dedication, and Respect Essential for Ensemble Success

2.1 Rehearsal Attendance and Punctuality

Participation in a choral ensemble is a collaborative art form that depends heavily on the consistent presence and commitment of every singer, and as such, regular attendance and punctuality are mandatory for all enrolled participants. Participants are required to attend all scheduled weekly rehearsals, sectional practices, and dress rehearsals as outlined in the seasonal calendar provided at the start of the program, recognizing that excessive absences negatively impact the ensemble’s overall progress, blend, and ability to perform challenging repertoire. If a participant anticipates an absence due to illness, scheduled appointments, or unavoidable conflicts, the participant (or their parent/guardian) must notify the assigned ensemble conductor or program manager as far in advance as possible, adhering to the organization’s established absence reporting protocol, which is critical for maintaining accurate rehearsal rosters. Any participant who accumulates more than three (3) unexcused absences during a single season, or whose repeated tardiness significantly disrupts the start of rehearsal, may be placed on probation, or, at the sole discretion of the Artistic Director, may be removed from the final performance roster. The final decision regarding a singer’s eligibility to perform is based on their demonstrated ability to contribute positively and reliably to the ensemble and is directly linked to their attendance record.

2.2 Standards of Conduct and Respect

All participants, including singers, parents, volunteers, and staff, are expected to adhere to the highest standards of respectful, ethical, and constructive conduct during all rehearsals, performances, workshops, and interactions with the CHORAL MUSIC EXPERIENCE community, reflecting the organization’s core values of inclusion and joyful collaboration. This requirement includes treating all fellow singers, instructors, staff members, accompanists, and audience members with courtesy, dignity, and respect at all times, regardless of age, background, musical ability, or personal difference, recognizing that the choral arts thrive in a diverse and supportive environment. Any form of harassment (including verbal, physical, or cyber), bullying, discrimination based on any protected characteristic, disruptive behavior that intentionally hinders the educational process, or willful damage to CME property or the property of our venues is strictly prohibited and constitutes a serious violation of these Terms. Participants are expected to maintain focus and follow the instructions of their conductors and instructors diligently throughout rehearsal, contributing positively to the overall learning atmosphere. Any participant found to be engaging in severe or repeated misconduct will be subject to immediate disciplinary action, up to and including immediate and permanent termination from the program without eligibility for any refund of tuition fees.

2.3 Performance Commitment and Representation

Enrolled singers in performance-based ensembles must commit to the full performance schedule as published for the season, recognizing that performances are the culminating, non-negotiable component of the program. This commitment includes mandatory attendance at all scheduled dress rehearsals, which are essential for technical and logistical preparation and usually take place in the performance venue immediately prior to the concert date. All singers are required to wear the official CME uniform or designated performance attire, which must be maintained in good condition and worn according to the specific instructions provided by the administrative staff, ensuring a professional and unified appearance that reflects the high standards of the organization. As representatives of CHORAL MUSIC EXPERIENCE, all participants are expected to conduct themselves professionally and respectfully while on stage, backstage, and at all performance venues, demonstrating composure and gratitude to the audience and venue staff. Any participant removed from a performance due to inadequate preparation, excessive absence, or failure to comply with conduct or uniform requirements is not eligible for a refund or credit and forfeits the opportunity to participate in that event.

3. Intellectual Property, Media Consent, and Content Use

Defining Rights Regarding Music, Recordings, and Promotional Materials

3.1 Intellectual Property and Copyright

All materials provided to participants, including digital and physical sheet music, performance scores, instructional handouts, rehearsal tracks, and proprietary curriculum documents, are the valuable intellectual property of CHORAL MUSIC EXPERIENCE or are provided to us under specific licensing agreements with composers and music publishers and are protected by applicable copyright law. Participants are granted a limited, non-exclusive, non-transferable license to use these materials solely for the purpose of their personal study and participation in the CME program during the current season. You agree that you will not reproduce, distribute, publicly display, or share any of these copyrighted materials—including but not limited to photocopying sheet music, uploading rehearsal tracks to public domains, or using curriculum materials for external instruction—without the prior express written consent of the CME Artistic Director and the respective copyright holder. Digital sheet music licenses are strictly tied to the individual singer and must be deleted or returned upon withdrawal or at the conclusion of the season, in compliance with our agreements with music publishers, ensuring that our organization maintains strict adherence to international copyright and intellectual property laws, which are paramount to supporting the creative community.

3.2 Media Release and Performance Recording Consent

By enrolling a participant in CHORAL MUSIC EXPERIENCE programs, the parent or legal guardian grants CME, its employees, and its authorized contractors the irrevocable, royalty-free, worldwide right and permission to capture, use, publish, distribute, and display the participant’s image, voice, likeness, and performance (in photographs, video recordings, audio recordings, or other media formats) for purposes directly related to the legitimate promotional, marketing, educational, and fundraising activities of the organization. This use includes, but is not limited to, posting images and video clips on our official website and social media channels, using photos in seasonal brochures and programs, and utilizing performance recordings for archival or promotional purposes, all designed to showcase the excellence and community spirit of CME. Participants and parents have the right to opt-out or withdraw this media consent at any time by submitting a clear, written request to the administrative office; however, you acknowledge that any media already published or disseminated prior to the receipt of the withdrawal notice, particularly performance recordings, cannot be fully retracted. Please be aware that opting out of media consent means the participant’s name and image will be withheld from all future promotional materials and public recognition, but the participant is still eligible to participate fully in all rehearsals and performances.

3.3 Website and Digital Content Use

The content of the CHORAL MUSIC EXPERIENCE website, including all text, graphics, logos, images, audio, video, and design elements, is the exclusive property of CME or its licensors and is protected by copyright and intellectual property laws. You are granted a limited, non-exclusive, revocable license to access and use the website and its content for your personal, non-commercial use relating to your participation or interest in our programs. You agree not to reproduce, duplicate, copy, sell, or exploit any portion of the website content for commercial purposes without our express written permission. You must not use our website in any way that causes, or may cause, damage to the website or impairment of the availability or accessibility of the website; nor in any manner which is unlawful, illegal, fraudulent, or harmful. Any links to external third-party websites provided on our site are for convenience only, and CME is not responsible for the content, privacy policies, or practices of those external sites.

4. Disclaimers, Limitation of Liability, and Indemnification

Defining Legal Responsibilities and Protections for All Parties

4.1 Assumption of Risk and Waiver

Participation in choral rehearsals, workshops, and performances inherently involves certain risks and hazards commonly associated with group activities, including but not limited to vocal strain, muscle fatigue, and the risks inherent in travel to and from various rehearsal and performance venues. By enrolling and participating in any CME program, you acknowledge and voluntarily assume all risks associated with such participation. As a condition of enrollment, and to the fullest extent permitted by law, you hereby release, waive, discharge, and covenant not to sue CHORAL MUSIC EXPERIENCE, its officers, directors, staff, conductors, instructors, volunteers, and agents from any and all liability, claims, demands, actions, and causes of action whatsoever, whether in law or equity, arising out of or related to any loss, damage, or injury (including death) that may be sustained by the participant, or any property belonging to the participant, while participating in any CME-sponsored activity, regardless of whether such loss or injury is caused by the negligence of CME or otherwise. This waiver is intended to be as broad and inclusive as permitted by the laws of the State of South Carolina.

4.2 Limitation of Liability

In no event shall CHORAL MUSIC EXPERIENCE, its officers, directors, employees, or agents be liable to you or any third party for any direct, indirect, consequential, exemplary, incidental, special, or punitive damages, including lost profit, lost revenue, loss of data, or other damages arising from your use of our programs or website, even if CME has been advised of the possibility of such damages. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein, CME’s liability to you for any cause whatsoever, and regardless of the form of the action, will at all times be limited to the amount paid, if any, by you to CME for the enrollment or service in the three (3) month period preceding any such claim. This limitation of liability shall apply to the fullest extent permitted by law in the applicable jurisdiction. CME makes no warranties, express or implied, regarding the specific artistic outcome or career success resulting from participation in its programs, which are offered on an “as-is” and “as-available” basis.

4.3 Indemnification

You agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless CHORAL MUSIC EXPERIENCE, its subsidiary organizations, affiliates, officers, directors, employees, agents, and volunteers from and against any loss, damage, liability, claim, or demand, including reasonable attorneys’ fees and expenses, made by any third party due to or arising out of: (a) your use of the CME website or participation in our programs in violation of these Terms; (b) any breach of the representations and warranties made by you in these Terms; (c) your violation of the rights of a third party, including intellectual property rights or privacy rights; or (d) any overt harmful act toward any other participant, instructor, staff member, or third party associated with CME programs. CME reserves the right, at your expense, to assume the exclusive defense and control of any matter for which you are required to indemnify us, and you agree to cooperate with our defense of these claims. You agree not to settle any matter without the prior written consent of CME.

5. Governing Law, Dispute Resolution, and Miscellaneous Provisions

Framework for Legal Jurisdiction and the Complete Nature of This Agreement

5.1 Governing Law and Jurisdiction

These Terms, and the relationship between you and CHORAL MUSIC EXPERIENCE, shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the State of South Carolina, without regard to its conflict of law provisions. You agree that any legal suit, action, or proceeding arising out of, or related to, these Terms or your use of our programs shall be instituted exclusively in the federal or state courts located in Charleston County, South Carolina, and you waive any and all objections to the exercise of jurisdiction over you by such courts and to venue in such courts, recognizing that our organization’s headquarters and primary operations are based in Mount Pleasant, South Carolina.

5.2 Dispute Resolution Protocol

In the event of any dispute arising out of or concerning these Terms or your participation in CME programs, the parties agree to first attempt to resolve the dispute through good faith negotiation between the participant (or parent/guardian) and the CME administrative leadership. If the dispute cannot be resolved through negotiation within a period of thirty (30) days, the parties agree to submit the matter to non-binding mediation in Charleston County, South Carolina, utilizing a mutually agreed-upon mediator, with the costs of mediation to be shared equally between the parties. Litigation may only be commenced after the mediation process has failed to resolve the dispute. This staged resolution process is designed to ensure disputes are resolved efficiently and amicably, preserving the spirit of community and collaboration that defines our organization, before resorting to formal legal action.

5.3 Force Majeure

CHORAL MUSIC EXPERIENCE shall not be liable for any failure or delay in the performance of its obligations under these Terms if such failure or delay is caused by circumstances beyond its reasonable control, including but not limited to acts of God, war, terrorism, government restrictions, pandemic-related closures (including school closures), labor disputes, fire, flood, utility outages, or severe weather conditions. In the event of such a “Force Majeure” event, CME reserves the right to postpone, reschedule, or convert rehearsals and performances to an online or modified format, or to cancel program sessions entirely, without offering refunds beyond what is explicitly covered in the limited exception clause of Section 1.3, recognizing that the extraordinary circumstances prevent the complete fulfillment of the program, despite CME’s best efforts.

5.4 Severability and Entire Agreement

If any term or provision of these Terms is determined by a court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable for any reason, such provision shall be eliminated or limited to the minimum extent such that the remaining provisions of the Terms will continue in full force and effect. These Terms, together with any applicable enrollment forms, payment plan agreements, and our Privacy Policy, constitute the entire agreement between you and CHORAL MUSIC EXPERIENCE concerning the subject matter herein and supersede all prior and contemporaneous understandings, agreements, representations, and warranties, both written and oral, regarding such subject matter, ensuring that this document is the single, complete, and final source of all contractual obligations between the parties.

5.5 Contact Information

For any questions regarding these Terms and Conditions or for communication regarding legal notices or formal disputes, please contact us in writing at:

Attn: Legal & Administrative Office CHORAL MUSIC EXPERIENCE 2352 PARSONAGE WOODS LN, MOUNT PLEASANT, SC 29466-0000

Email: info@choralarts.site (Please include “LEGAL TERMS INQUIRY” in the subject line.)

By enrolling in our programs or using our services, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agree to be bound by these comprehensive Terms and Conditions.