(from pages 5-6 of the 2013 member manual)

Maintaining a high professional posture is an ongoing goal of the chorus. To continue providing quality programs for which Nashville Singers has become known, every member is expected to follow these guidelines:

• SMILE and show your enthusiasm for the music.
• Keep your hands away from your face during singing. Do not stand with your hands in your pockets or clasped in front or behind you.
• If you have to cough, try swallowing or clearing your throat lightly at an appropriate time in the music or during applause. Cough drops are acceptable if your throat is sore, but please un-wrap them and keep them in your pocket prior to the performance. NO CHEWING GUM.
• Near the end of a performance piece, remain poised and integrated with the music even though you may not be singing all the way to the end. "At Ease" comes when the conductor's hands/arms relax to his or her side.
• While on stage, and in particular while singing, remember to bend your knees and shift your weight from one foot to the other on occasion. This will help keep you from locking your knees, which can cause falling and fainting.
• If you become ill during a performance, leave the stage purposefully if you are able to do so. DO NOT TRY TO SNEAK OUT OR BE INCONSPICUOUS-JUST GO! If you feel faint, sit down wherever you are. Better to sit down than to fall down! Your safety ALWAYS comes first.
• Do not speak to one another on stage.
• Do not react to blunders or mishaps. Continue as if nothing has happened. Look as though you enjoy your art, especially during applause, even if the music was solemn.
• The chorus almost never applauds on stage for soloists, accompanists, conductors, etc. A big smile in the direction of the person is fine.
• Last, but not least, ALWAYS display a sense of professionalism in attitude and decorum on and off stage. Save any critical comments for a time far away from the concert hall. Self-deprecation is unattractive-focus on the positive!