Q: If I arrive late can I scroll back to and read the beginning of the discussion?
A: Not at this time. You will only see the text from the time you enter the room.

Q: If I leave the chatroom, will I be able to see what I missed when I return?
A: No. You will only see new text when you return.

Q: Can I save a text log of the chat?
A: Sure! Save it as a webpage and frequently re-save during the chat.

Q: If I miss a chat, can I read a transcript:?
A: Not exactly. NATS CHATS are intended for real-time participation. However, some chat highlights may be posted on the bulletin board in the members section.

Q: Doesn't it get confusing with several people "talking" at once?
A: It can! You will typically see two or more on-topic subjects happening at once. Respond as you wish and then watch for a reply to that response.

Q: How many people attend the chats?
A: It varies according to topic and season, but attendance has ranged from 4-14 chatters. The new NATS CHATS room functions more smoothly than previous versions and can accomodate many more chatters without screen freezes and technical problems. The more the merrier (and its not considered rude if everyone is "talking" at the same time.)

Q: Can I suggest topics for future chats?
A: Absolutely! Send your ideas for topics and guests to Matt Hoch at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Q: Can voice students participate in NATS CHATS?
A: We hope to have open student (SNATS) chats in the future. Currently NATS CHATS are only accessible through the members section.

Q: Can I send private messages to a chatter that won't be visible on the main chat page?
A: Yes. This is a good way to meet and greet colleagues without getting the main discussion off topic. Chatters may also choose to block private messages.

Q: I'm busy (or sleeping) on Sunday nights. Do you ever have chats at different times or days?
A: Sometimes. We have tried other days/times and so far, Sunday nights are the best times to catch people at home on their computers. It's late for East coast chatters, but we can't really start much earlier for the West coast chatters.

Q: Are all of the chatters from the US?
A: No! We have several regular chatters from Canada and we are occasionally visited by chatters (insomniacs?) from Europe and South America who join us in the wee hours of the morning in their time zones.

Q: Do you just talk about classical voice?
A: Not at all! Guests have included jazz singers, Broadway singers, etc

Q: Are the chats mainly for college voice faculty?
A: No. Some chats may focus on academic topics, but most of the regular chatters are private studio teachers who don't have the opportunity to network with colleagues in an institution.

Q: Do I have to use my real name in the chat?
A: NATS Members are automatically logged in by first initial/last name (example mhoch). There is currently no system to log on with an alias. So, just be yourself!

Q: Can I use the chats with any computer?
A: Chats are PC and Mac compatible, but you will have best results and fastest streaming with a high-speed or DSL connection.

If you have more questions, please email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it