Concert Choir Syllabus
2008-2009
Rationale
It is important to give every student the opportunity to reach a high individual and group skill level in vocal music. This is done through performance and rehearsal settings that maintain high standards and purposeful participation. Choir is offered to all interested students in grades six through twelve.
General Objectives
1. To prepare for various performances throughout the year.
2. To expose students to quality choral music and performances.
3. To lead students into a greater awareness of their spirit and emotions.
4. To strengthen skills as outlined in the National Music Standards.
Students perform a varied repertoire of vocal music, alone and with others, Read and notate music. Listen to, analyze and describe music. Evaluate music, music use, and music performance.
Course Content
This varies as to the singing ability of the students and purpose of the music. General areas of instruction include: Note reading/sight singing and rhythm reading, Phrasing, expression and dynamics, Breathing and tone quality, Parts of the vocal mechanism, Learning to sing their part independently, Singing liturgical music, Rehearsal and concert etiquette, Listening to oneself and others, Music history-especially related to the music being sung, and Evaluating music verbally and in writing
Resources
Sing Legato, Kenneth Jennings
Sight Singing Method, Bruce Phelps
30 Days to Music Theory & Intervals, Ellen Wilmeth
Concert Repertoire
Teaching & Assessments
A. Daily participation grade based on a 0-5 point scale. To receive 5 points you must meet these requirements:
*Regular attendance in class.
*Be on time and in your seat. Two tardies equals one detention.
*Be prepared. (Do you have your folders and pencil? It is strongly encouraged that you bring a water bottle.)
*No gum, candy, food or pop!
*Demonstrate effort, positive leadership, respectful attitude and behavior. This means that you are quiet, attentive and ready to sing (following along in your music when others are singing). Willingness to sing at various masses or other activities also demonstrates leadership.
*Demonstrate the skills we are learning. (ie, posture, breathing technique, tone, sight singing, etc.)
B. Attendance at all concerts is mandatory! The Christmas, Festival/Contest, and Spring Concerts are worth 100 points. This is weighted as though it were a final exam. All other concerts are worth 50 points. I must know at least two weeks in advance if you have a serious conflict. Work and sports are NOT serious conflicts. Your grade will be lowered one full grade if not cleared before the concert. If you miss a concert you are required to write a research paper. The paper will follow standard MLA format.
C. Attend one choral or instrumental event every trimester and write a concert report. This can be a concert or musical. You will need to turn in both the program and a two page type-written review. This will be worth 25 points. If you want to attend more than one a trimester, I will count it towards the following trimester. You may use A LL your Bulldog Best Homework Passes for ONE of the reports. The report is written following standard MLA format.
D. Singing tests twice a trimester. You’ll sing a choir piece in a small group and do a sight-reading exercise.
E. Final exams every trimester. The exam can be written or oral.
Concert Dress
*You are assigned a school gown or tuxedo.
*Girls wear flesh-colored nylons, FLAT black shoes WITHOUT laces, buckles, etc. You may also feel more comfortable wearing a white slip. However, no undergarments may be visible (tank tops, etc.)
*Boys wear a PLAIN white t-shirt, black socks and black shoes.
*Students are required to purchase their own set of jewelry or button cover. The jewelry is $10 and the button cover is $5. If you lose it, you will be required to buy another set! No other jewelry (including watches) is acceptable! However, the cost should not deter anyone from being in choir. Please see me if you have a concern.
Thanks so much for you participation in and your support of the Fine Arts at Saint Bernard’s! I look forward to a great year!
