The IFC does not have weekly rehearsals; instead, there is an intense period of five rehearsals in the eight days prior to each performance. Music is given out at a preliminary rehearsal two months before this, and between this time and the final eight days of rehearsals, there are sectional and other rehearsals and resources offering an opportunity for those less familiar with the festival format to get to grips with the music, brush up their vocal skills and meet other members of the choir. Given the limited number of full-choir rehearsals, it is the responsibility of each chorus member to have learned their notes on their own by the final week of rehearsals so that the final week can focus on musical expression.