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Chamber Singers

1. Course Description

Grades 9-12

A one credit course that meets 5 periods per week. Students are selected for this course on the basis of an audition.

Goals:

To increase individual performing ability
To increase music reading ability
To increase knowledge and appreciation of the repertoire performed
To perform quality choral literature of various styles, grade V-VI
To afford students the opportunity to perform and compete at district, state, and regional levels

This course is offered to instruct singers, both male and female, who wish to explore more difficult choral literature for smaller groups, grade level VI. The ensemble has an exten sive performance schedule throughout the year. Vocal lessons and music literacy instruc tion are offered to all members of the group.

2. Course Components

Using a balanced variety of music, the program trains each student in the following vocal skills:

Tone production
Music literacy
Auditory perception
Expression
Ensemble
Communication
Critical Listening

Students will have the opportunity to perform in school concerts and to perform and com pete at regional, state, and district festivals. Students will also be exposed to professional performers, including live performances by guest artists and ensembles, and audio and video recordings. Gifted and talented students will have the opportunity to audition for district, state, regional, and national honor groups such as All District, All State, All New England, and All Eastern.

3. Course Materials
A variety of music from many historical and stylistic periods
Professional performers, artists-in-residence, guest clinicians
2 upright pianos (rehearsal room and private lesson room)
Grand piano (for performance in the Commons)
Music folders
storage cabinets
stereo recording and playback equipment
Audio and video recordings
Robes and stoles
Macintosh computers, hardware and software
Pitchpipes

4. Student Expectations

Be present and on time for rehearsals.
Come to all rehearsals prepared with music and pencil.
Respect others and the facilities.
Participate and contribute in rehearsals.
Learn to perform individual vocal part capably.
Attend all required performances.

5. Evaluation

A student's grade will be based on the following:

A. The student's performance in the individual vocal exam

All students will be required to sing for a grade at least once per grading period
If a student is not satisfied with the grade received for a vocal exam, the student may schedule another exam time in order to improve the grade.
If a student performs unsatisfactorily, that student may be required to have one or more lessons and/or practice sessions.

B. The student's adherence to the stated Student Expectations and High School Choral Policies

C. Attendance at all required performances

D. Extra credit