Rebecca, these are all excellent responses. I will respond from the other side of the fence. I've sung plenty of solos but that wasn't always the case. For ten years I had a vocal coach and I trained my voice in a classical style. I was never chosen for the solos because I didn't have the ability to fill the room with my voice. It took years and a lot of hard work. Choral singing and solo singing require two different techniques. A good vocal coach can help you with both. Choral singing is about listening, blending and not standing out. Solo singing is about muscles, breathing, expandtion, relaxation and control all at the same time! It is very difficult to switch back and forth. Could it be that your director isn't aware that you are interested in singing solo parts? Maybe if you had a quiet word with her and explained that you would like to grow as a singer, perhaps she could choose a piece that would suit you. If she does'nt embrace your enthusiasum, than I would definately find a new choir. Unfortunately, when it comes to music there is good and bad ego. I don't recommend being confrontational with your director, bad feelings make for bad music.

Good Luck, LL