Bylaws of NeoVoce Philharmonic Choir

Chapter I. Name and Registration

Article 1. Organization Name
1.1 The official Chinese name of this choir is 馨声爱乐合唱团. Its federally registered English name is NeoVoce Philharmonic Choir (abbreviated as NPC).
1.2 The Choir is a non-profit organization registered in Canada and abides by the relevant laws and regulations of Canada and Ontario.

Chapter II. Purpose and Mission

Article 2. Purpose
2.1 To promote cultural exchange and multicultural inclusion through the art of choral music, and to enhance the public’s appreciation of music.
2.2 To enrich members’ cultural and recreational life, improve musical literacy, and cultivate mutual respect, cooperation, and fellowship.

Article 3. Mission and Goals
3.1 To become a musically leading Chinese-Canadian amateur choir in the Greater Toronto Area and beyond.
3.2 To provide members with professional-level choral training, enhancing ensemble skills and stage performance.
3.3 To actively participate in community cultural and musical activities and promote the art of choral singing.
3.4 To host public concerts, fostering equality, diversity, and inclusion in the community.
3.5 To engage in international cultural exchanges, showcasing the diverse charm of choral music.

Chapter III. Organizational Structure

Article 4. Governing Bodies
4.1 Board of Directors – The highest decision-making body of the Choir, elected by all members, responsible for major resolutions.
4.2 The Board consists of the Chairperson, Secretary-General, Financial Supervisor, and other Directors.
4.3 Artistic Committee – The Board appoints the Artistic Director/Conductor, who forms the Artistic Committee, responsible for artistic direction, rehearsals, and performance quality.
4.4 Administrative Team – Includes one President (appointed by the Board), one or two Vice Presidents (appointed by the President), and departments such as Finance, Publicity, Logistics, and External Relations, formed by the President.

Chapter IV. Membership System

Article 5. Membership Eligibility
5.1 Any individual aged 18 or above who accepts these Bylaws, complies with the regulations, has a passion for the art of choral music, and demonstrates team spirit may apply to join.
5.2 The Board has the right to terminate membership in cases of misconduct or serious violation of Choir rules.

Article 6. Member Rights
6.1 To participate in rehearsals, performances, training, and activities.
6.2 To vote, elect, be elected, and make proposals at the General Assembly.
6.3 To access internal materials and learning resources.
6.4 To freely withdraw from membership.

Article 7. Member Obligations
7.1 To comply with these Bylaws, regulations, and rehearsal discipline.
7.2 To pay membership fees on time.
7.3 To actively participate in rehearsals and performances, upholding the Choir’s reputation.

Article 8. Membership Fees
8.1 The membership fee amount shall be determined jointly by the Board and the Administrative Team.

Chapter V. Activities and Performances

Article 9. Forms of Activities
9.1 Regular rehearsals
9.2 Annual concerts
9.3 Workshops and open rehearsals
9.4 Community outreach and charity performances
9.5 Domestic and international choral festivals, competitions, and tours

Article 10. Musical Standards
10.1 Rehearsals must be professional, and performances must be audience-centered, adhering to high artistic standards.

Chapter VI. Finance and Asset Management

Article 11. Financial Principles
11.1 Funding sources include membership fees, donations, sponsorships, ticket sales, and government grants.
11.2 All funds must be used exclusively for activities consistent with the Choir’s purpose and not for personal gain.
11.3 Financial operations must be transparent. An annual financial report must be submitted to the Board and the General Assembly for review.

Chapter VII. Rules and Amendments

Article 12. Regulations
Based on the nature of the Choir and its organizational roles, corresponding rules and regulations shall be established or amended with Board approval.

Article 13. Amendments to the Bylaws
Any amendments must be approved collectively by the Board before taking effect. The right of interpretation of these Bylaws belongs to the Board of NeoVoce Philharmonic Choir.

These Bylaws were drafted by the “Bylaw Drafting Committee” under the leadership of the Board, discussed and approved by the Board, and shall take effect on 2025(year) 8 (month) 22(day).

Code of Conduct

NeoVoce Philharmonic Choir

1. Purpose and Values

Our choir is committed to fostering artistic expression, cultural exchange, and community engagement through choral music.

All members are expected to uphold the values of respect, inclusion, professionalism, integrity, collaboration, and accountability, consistent with Canadian community standards and human rights principles.

2. Respect, Inclusion, and Equity 2.1 Respectful Environment

All members shall treat fellow singers, leaders, staff, volunteers, partners, and audience members with dignity and respect.

Harassment, discrimination, bullying, intimidation, or abusive behavior of any kind will not be tolerated.

2.2 Equity and Diversity

The choir is committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion. Discrimination based on age, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, race, ethnicity, language, religion, disability, or cultural background is strictly prohibited.

Members are expected to contribute to a welcoming and supportive environment.

3. Professional Conduct
3.1 Commitment and Participation

Members are expected to participate in rehearsals, performances, and scheduled activities in a timely and responsible manner.

If absence is unavoidable, members should inform the appropriate choir representative in advance whenever possible.

3.2 Rehearsal and Performance Conduct

Members shall remain attentive, cooperative, and respectful during rehearsals and performances.

Personal devices and unrelated activities must not interfere with group activities.

4. Collaboration and Standards

●  Members are expected to follow agreed rehearsal plans, assigned voice parts, performance schedules, and ensemble arrangements.
●  Performance dress codes and presentation standards must be observed as communicated.
●  Suggestions regarding musical or organizational matters are welcome and should be raised through appropriate channels.

5. Communication and Teamwork

5.1 Constructive Communication

Open, respectful, and solution-oriented communication is encouraged.

Concerns or differing views should be expressed in a professional manner through internal channels.

5.2 Team Spirit

Members are expected to act in the best interests of the ensemble and to support one another.

Experienced members are encouraged to assist and mentor new members.

6. Integrity and Ethical Responsibility

6.1 Honesty and Representation

Members shall act honestly and responsibly in all choir-related matters.

The choir’s name, affiliation, or reputation must not be used for unauthorized activities or purposes.

6.2 Use of Resources

All choir resources, including but not limited to music scores, rehearsal recordings, internal documents, educational materials, costumes, equipment, and digital files, are the property of the choir or are used under license.

The scope, manner, and purpose of use of these resources are determined by the choir.

Members may use such resources solely for choir-related purposes and only within the permissions granted.

Unauthorized copying, distribution, sharing, public posting, commercial use, or use for external performances, ensembles, or personal projects is strictly prohibited without prior written approval.

Upon request or upon termination of membership, members must return or permanently delete all choir-owned or licensed materials.

7. Public Representation and Media

Members representing the choir in public settings, including performances, outreach activities, interviews, or online platforms, shall conduct themselves in a respectful and professional manner.

Confidential or internal information must not be shared without authorization.

8. Health, Safety, and Legal Compliance

Members shall comply with applicable Canadian laws, venue policies, safety requirements, and public health guidelines during choir activities.

Unsafe, illegal, or inappropriate conduct is strictly prohibited.

9. Breach of Conduct

Failure to comply with this Code of Conduct may result in appropriate corrective action, including warnings, temporary suspension from activities, or termination of membership.

All matters will be addressed fairly, respectfully, and in a timely manner.

10. Acknowledgement

By participating in the choir, members acknowledge that they have read, understood, and agree to abide by this Code of Conduct, and commit to contributing to a respectful, inclusive, and collaborative community.