Preparatory Choir Syllabus
2008-2009
Course Description
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.
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.
A. Students perform a varied repertoire of vocal music, alone and with others.
B. Students read and notate music.
C. Students listen to, analyze and describe music.
D. Students 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:
1. Note reading/sight singing and rhythm reading
2. Phrasing, expression and dynamics
3. Breathing and tone quality
4. Parts of the vocal mechanism
5. Learning to sing their part independently
6. Singing liturgical music
7. Rehearsal and concert etiquette
8. Listening to oneself and others
Resources
Sing Legato, Kenneth Jennings
Sight Singing Method, Bruce Phelps
30 Days to Music Theory & Intervals, Ellen Wilmeth
Concert Repertoire
Teaching & Assessment
A. Daily participation grade based on a 0-5 point scale. To receive 5 points you must meet these requirements:
*Be on time and prepared. Two tardies will lower your grade and reserve your spot in detention. Also, do you have your folder and pencil and are you in your assigned place? It is strongly encouraged that you bring a water bottle.
*Bring your assignment notebook, journal notebook and a PENCIL (NOT an erasable pen).
*No gum, candy, food or pop! Demerits will be given.
*Demonstrate effort, positive leadership, respectful attitude and good 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, confidence etc.)
B. Attendance at concerts is mandatory! Concerts are worth 100 points. This is weighted as though it was a final exam. I must talk to or receive a note from your parents at least two weeks in advance if you have a serious conflict. Sports practices or games are NOT serious conflicts. Please contact me if you need transportation. Concerts are required school events and 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 in standard MLA format.
C. Teacher-generated worksheets, quizzes
D. Successful completion of assigned lines in the Sight Singing Method Book, and 30 Days to Music Theory . You will be tested on these twice a trimester.
Concert Dress
All Students: Black dress pants or knee-length skirt, black socks or tights, black shoes and a white long-sleeved shirt.
Boys: Add a tie of any color.
Proper concert dress is required. It makes the difference between a mediocre choir and great one. We want to be classy and have pride in our accomplishments. Jeans, tennis shoes, sweatshirts, t-shirts, baseball caps, etc. are NOT acceptable. If a black and white outfit is unavailable a school uniform may be substituted with my prior approval.
Thanks so much for supporting the Fine Arts at Saint Bernard’s!
I look forward to a great year!
