In addition to the membership investment, members must also arrange for their own performance tuxedo and accessories. (Many chorus members buy an inexpensive tuxedo from a tux rental shop or a discount store.) GMCLA also sponsors several activities throughout the year which are not mandatory, but which will greatly enhance members’ experience in the Chorus. Most notable among these is the weekend Retreat, usually scheduled in February. A fee of approximately $100 covers meals, lodging and other expenses. Additionally, chorus members are financially responsible for the cost of occasional (optional) tours, although partial subsidies may be available. As an example, our most recent tour to South America in 2006 cost each member approximately $3,500.