Welcome 
- Mixed chorus and vocal ensemble
Here we are once again, getting ready for an incredibly musical year. For some of you this will be a totally new experience. Some of the veterans already know what to expect. Here is some information you need to keep handy which will explain what you can expect this school year. Since being in the chorus class automatically puts you in a co-curricular activity, it is important that both students and parents alike understand the responsibilities that are unlike any other class you will have this year.Co-curricular activities are different than extra-curricular activities. Co-curricular means that our activities outside of the classroom (such as rehearsals and concerts) are considered part of the curriculum. Therefore, these activities are mandatory and count as part of your grade. COURSE CONTENT
Throughout the year we will cover the following topics. We develop these skills in class and then apply them to our concert selections. VOCAL AND CHORAL TECHNIQUES:
Breath control (posture, staggered breathing)
Diction (consonants, vowels, diphthongs)
Tone quality, Pitch matching, Intonation, Melody, Harmony, Balance, Blend,
Memorization, Vocal Health
MUSICAL NOTATION:
Rhythm, Pitches, Music terminology and symbols, sight-singing,
ear training, intervals, composition
INTERPRETATION AND EXPRESSION:
Dynamic control, form, texture, conducting, listening, phrasing,
various historical styles of music.
SELF-DISCIPLINE AND CONCENTRATION:
Focus on conductor; behavior (in class, in performance, as an audience);
thinking ahead, positive attitude, aware of other people's feelings
PERFORMANCES OF PREPARED MUSIC:
There will be one graded evening performance each marking period
Please check the calendar for mandatory performances and rehearsals.
CONCERT DRESS
The first impression an audience has of a chorus is how they, and a good looking group gets the audience ready for a good sound. We are frequently complimented for our elegance.LADIES: We will provide you with a long, black dresses and a beaded necklace. Several of you already own the black dress and necklace and will not need to sign one out. Concert dress materials will need to be returned at the end of the semester or year depending on your schedule. Replacement cost for lost materials is $65.00 You will also need closed-toed black dress shoes - NO SNEAKERS AND NO FLIP FLOPS.
GENTLEMAN: All chorus gentlemen will need a tuxedo. Please check your closets to determine what you need. We have various pieces which can be signed out. Concert dress materials need to be returned at the end of the semester or year depending on your schedule. Replacement costs for lost materials vary. You will also need dress black shoes - NO SNEAKERS. *note - the company we use for concert dress sells a five-piece tuxedo for $100.00. Several students a year are interested in purchasing a tuxedo to be used in other events throughout their high school years. Fundraising is available. Please see Miss Gabriele if you are interested in purchasing a tuxedo.
FUNDRAISING
This year we are asking ALL CHORUS STUDENTS to raise $20.00 for Fair Share. This money will be used to maintain concert attire, purchase music and supplies for the chorus classroom. We will also be able to use some of the moneys to help offset the costs for choral festival and possibly part of the NY trip. Students have three options to raise the money:
1. Donate $20.00
2. Work Falcon Fuel (an after school fundraiser) for 10 days.
A response sheet was distributed in class.
daily classroom procedure
Upon entering the room, students should look on the board for directions. It will state what materials will be needed for that day and any announcements or reminders. Class will usually begin with warm-up exercises. Daily rehearsals may vary from large group work to sectional rehearsals. often, identified students leaders will lead sectional rehearsals. Proper participation and respect is expected.materials
All choral music and folders will be provided by the school. Students desiring to perform at Solo and Ensemble Festival may need to purchase their own music. Students need to bring a PENCIL to class. Pens will not be accepted.grading policy
Since this is a performance based class, grading is weighted accordingly. The grade are divided into three categories - Performance, written work and tests/quizzes. All performances and mandatory rehearsals are listed on the calendar. If a student is absent from a rehearsal or concert, a note is required within three days (AACPS policy). If a note is not received, the student will receive a zero. Students missing a concert will be required to take a make up exam.classroom rules
1. Proper respect is to be shown to everyone in the room at all times. Classroom disruptions prevent others from learning. Continuous disruptions will result in phone calls home, detentions and referrals. For Vocal Ensemble students, continued disruption will result in removal from the class.2. All students are expected to be on time for class, rehearsals and concerts. On time means in your seat with your music. We will follow the SPHS lateness policy. Students are to sit in their assigned seats each day.
3. ABSOLUTELY NO CELL PHONES, IPODS, ETC. As stated in school policy, all such equipment will be "bagged and tagged". Parents will be notified and will need to come to the school to pick it up.
4. Gum chewing, eating and drinking are NOT allowed, except for bottle water
5. The policies regarding academic integrity will be enforced.
6. Before leaving class, students are responsible for putting materials away and straightening chairs.