Georgetown High School Chorus Handbook 2017-2018!
!2 Table of Contents Chorus Welcome Letter..3 Chorus Curriculum.....4 Georgetown Music Parents (brief intro and information)...4 Class Participation and Attendance.....5 Performances....6 Concert Attire.......6 GMHS Music Department Attendance Policy..7 Grading Policies..... 8 Music Department Calendar.9-10 Junior/Senior Districts Information......11 Handbook SIgn-off Form... 12
!3!! August 2017 Welcome to the High School Choral Department! Whether you are a past member or a new member, I am so excited that you have chosen this course and are interested in singing. In this handbook, you will find information that will be very important for you as a member of the Chorus. A student who chooses Chorus as an elective must live up to the standards set for this performing group. This year, Chorale will take place B Block and Chorus will take place C block, both held in the Chorus Room- Room 1110. A lot of our success in the music program is our connections outside of school time. I will be very available and able to help and rehearse with you. My availability will be posted on our door weekly. Be sure to meet with me and sign up for a time slot to ensure that I will be available. The music department website (www.georgetownmusic.weebly.com) serves as our primary mode of communication, so check it often and subscribe to our department twitter account (@GMHSMusic) and Instagram account (@georgetownchorus). You may also receive occasional messages from the Georgetown Music Parents email, gtnmusicparents@gmail.com. Email also tends to be the best way to reach us with your questions, concerns, volunteer availability, etc. For an electronic version of this handbook, up-to-the-minute department information, and additional notices, forms, and resources, please get in the habit of checking the class pages on the website: www.georgetownmusic.weebly.com. Please check this page often! Please feel free to email me if you have any questions concerning these expectations. This is going to be a wonderful year and I am so excited to make music with you! Sincerely, Ms. Kaitlin Donovan kaitlin.donovan@georgetown.k12.ma.us Please read the handbook and sign and return the COMMITMENT FORM and complete the CONTACT INFORMATION link by Friday, September 8, 2017
Chorus Curriculum Being in a chorus involves more than just learning to sing your part. Throughout the year we will focus on various skills that will help each of you not only become better singers and musicians, but develop a true appreciation for diverse forms of music. Topics covered in this course will include: Vocal warm-ups Learning about proper and healthy vocal production Expanding your current singing range through vocal exercises Basic music theory and notation Understanding how to read music notation Being able to define and apply music vocabulary Sight-singing Reading and reciting music using notation with and without assistance Apply solfege or rhythmic syllables to aid in reading music at sight Intro to piano skills Identifying notes by their letter names Locating notes on the piano Vocal production Developing healthy habits for singing Correct tone production Proper breathing for singing Overview of anatomy as it relates to singing Learning appropriate vocal parts for various choral selections Being able to sing your voice part alone and with others (on the same or different part) Memorizing vocal parts Stage presence as a chorus member Understanding differences among cultures Communicating text Proper etiquette for performing Expected behavior during concerts Listening to and critiquing vocal performances Using recordings, videos, and live performances Using music specific terminology to give critical feedback Listening to various styles of choral music of the past and present Understanding social and historical significance of text and style for pieces performed Being able to creatively explore alternative meanings based on musical or textual evidence!4 GEORGETOWN MUSIC PARENTS support the band and chorus with needs that cannot be supplied by our budget. They help us raise funds which support scholarships, uniforms, bus transportation, and general support for our very active music program. Please consider becoming an active member and help music remain an important part of our students lives. Email: gtnmusicparents@gmail.com. Monthly meeting dates are listed in our Music Department Calendar. Be sure to check out and like the Georgetown Music Parents Facebook page for updates throughout the year!
Attendance and Attitude!5 Students are expected to: *Arrive to class on time ready to sing and participate in a very active class. Students must have their music binder (provided by the Music Parents) and pencil every day. Pencils are required, as you may need the capacity to erase markings in your score. *Be as attentive as possible in order to accomplish all that has been planned. Cell phones are not allowed during active rehearsal at any time. *Exhibit proper posture and attitude during rehearsals and concerts in order to achieve proper singing technique. *Promote teamwork - respecting and encouraging other choral members and the director. *Respect school property; treating folders, music, and equipment with care in order to maintain present condition. *Attend and perform to the best of your potential at all performances. An excused absence for a performance will include a make-up assignment (see Attendance Policy below) Class Participation Class Participation consists of the following expectations: 1. Students will arrive to class on time with their pencils, binders, and music. Cell phones are put away unless directed otherwise. 2. Participates actively during warm-ups and sight-reading exercises. 3. Maintains good singing posture and sings with appropriate tone throughout the rehearsal. 4. Students will be attentive to the director, following all directions and cues. 5. Always works to achieve the rehearsal goals and helps to foster a positive learning environment. 6. Gives their best singing effort with energy and enthusiasm, and remains silent otherwise. 7. Participates in class discussions. Offers constructive opinions when prompted. 8. Students will make notes in their music as directed and study their music to better understand what sections need additional rehearsal. 9. Does not chew gum, eat, or distract others from rehearsing. 10. Always work to apply what you learn as a singer. ** You will receive a weekly class participation grade that is based on these 10 student expectations.
Performances!6 Students are required to participate in scheduled performances. Each student contributes substantially to the group, and If one student is missing the sound of the entire chorus will suffer. We are a team that will work together many hours. If your son/daughter will not be able to attend a performance, he/she must provide a written note from a parent explaining the reason well ahead of any scheduled performances. An unexcused absence from a performance will significantly lower quarter grade. Required Performances: Wednesday, December 6th, 2016 Call 5:45 Concert 7:00 Tuesday, March 13th, 2017 Call 5:45 Concert 7:00 Thursday, May 10th, 2017 Call 5:45 Concert 7:00 ***In the event that you have given advance notice of missing a concert and the director has excused this absence, you will need to complete a make-up assignment in order to receive credit for the concert. No credit will be given for an excused absence until this make-up has been completed. *** For other events you or your child may be involved in, please see the Music Department Calendar pages 10-11. GHS Chorus and Chorale Concert Attire Performing in uniform attire is essential and adds professionalism and dignity to our ensembles. Students should dress for performances as follows: GHS Chorus White ¾ or long-sleeve collared, button up, ironed dress shirt Black Dress Pants (ladies please note that yoga pants are not concert attire) Black Belt Black Shoes Men will be asked to purchase a GHS blue bow tie from the music department GHS Chorale Black ¾ or long-sleeve collared, button up, ironed dress shirt Black Dress Pants (ladies please note that yoga pants are not concert attire) Black Belt Black Shoes Men will be asked to purchase a GHS blue bow tie from the music department
!7 GMHS MUSIC DEPARTMENT PERFORMANCE ATTENDANCE POLICY The unique nature of band and chorus class has, as part of the curriculum, performances outside of the scheduled school day. The success of our organization and ensembles depends directly upon the full and complete participation of all of its members. Calendars are provided at the start of each school year and are updated and available online and in the classrooms. The performance expectations of the ensembles are outlined in the course description and handbook. It is reasonably expected that with this notice, as a member of the Georgetown Middle High School Music Department, you will attend every rehearsal and performance. Please do not schedule avoidable conflicts with rehearsals or performances. These include job commitments, baby-sitting, doctor and dentist appointments, senior pictures, etc. Band and chorus are academic classes and are graded. Attendance will be taken at every rehearsal and performance. Although nothing can replace the absence of a performance, the student must see their director for the assignment that will replace the grade. School-related Conflicts: It is expected that students who choose to participate in several activities or classes that have an after-school practice/performance component will make every effort to completely fulfill their obligation to each group. In many cases, splitting time equally between the two simultaneous activities is the best compromise. Graded academic activities, such as performances within the arts, will take precedence over non-graded extra-curricular activities. School-related Athletics: Performances/games take precedence over practices/meetings. The student and/or parents should resolve practice conflicts by giving advanced notification to that student s coach. If possible, the director will make special arrangements to limit the amount of practice time missed. Performance/game conflicts should be resolved with full understanding and cooperation of all involved including complete and open communication between the students, teachers, parents, and coaches. Students can only be excused if participating in the sporting event s game. If possible, arrangements may be made to split time between the two events. Because our calendar is available from the beginning of the year, it is expected that students check their schedule against the music department schedule. Any conflicts should be addressed at the beginning of a sport s/activity s season. All conflicts must be worked out no few than two weeks prior to the conflict. This will allow coaches and directors to make the necessary adjustments to their ensemble or team. Emergencies/Illness: If you suddenly miss a dress rehearsal or performance due to an emergency or illness, a parent must attempt to make contact with the director by email, written note or phone call. This is still required if the student has been excused from school during the day. Requirements for Missed Performances Following an excused absence from a performance, our students will be required to speak with Ms. Donovan and schedule a ½ hour make-up time which will include performing the students vocal parts for the concert repertoire for his/her director. Students should be sure to complete this before the close of grades for that quarter. We, as the directors reserve the right to deny make-up work to a student who does not provide two weeks notice for missing a performance. Partial credit may also be given for situations that arise within the two-week window. For emergency absences, the student is held responsible for the missed performance and should arrange a make-up time with his/her teacher. Failure to complete the make-up time within the time frame allotted will result in a 0 (zero) being entered into the grade book for that performance.
!8 Grading Policies Quarter One Quarters Two, Three, and Four Class Participation 35% Class Participation 25% Sight Reading 30% Sight Reading 20% Homework/Binder Checks 15% Performance Attendance 20% Listening Journals/Quizzes 20% Homework/Binder Checks 15% Listening Journals/Quizzes 20% Grades in Chorus/Chorale are a symbol of effort and mastery of content. Your grade should reflect your performance and attendance each day in the chorus classroom and in concert performance, while assessing your steps to becoming a better musician. PARTICIPATION It is essential all members of this ensemble come to class to sing and participate. Each student will receive a participation grade weekly based on a point system using criteria set by the directors. (See page 5). WEEKLY SIGHT READING Students will improve their music reading skills while using their Sight Reading Factory subscription purchased by the Georgetown Music Department. A portion of their grade will include assessment of their completion and performance while utilizing the Music Department Sight-Reading Rubric. REHEARSAL AND PERFORMANCE ATTENDANCE As an ensemble, each student s part is essential to the whole sound. Therefore attendance and active participation will also be assessed both in class and at all performances (See Music Department Attendance policy). ASSIGNMENTS/PREPARATION/QUIZZES A final portion of the grade will include occasional in class assignments, binder checks (folder, pencil, markings in music, etc.) and quizzes or tests. MIDTERM/FINAL Chorus/Chorale will have a midterm and a final which will include assessments of singing, sight-reading and musical knowledge.
2017-2018 GMHS Music Department At-A-Glance Calendar June 13, 2017 Subject to change, with notice!9 August TBD All Music Parents Music & Arts Training at GTown Library (6:30PM) September 5 Fundraiser Music and Arts Rental Night (Pentucket) 8 HS Band Football Game (vs Boston Technical) 11 Fundraiser Mums Order Forms Due 12 GMHS Parents Open House (evening) 14 Fundraiser Music and Arts Rental Night (Topsfield & Spofford Pond)) 18 Music Parents Georgetown Music Parents Meeting (7pm) 19 Fundraiser Music and Arts Rental Night (Danvers) 19 PB Students/Parents Instrument Rental Night (5:30pm) 20 Penn Brook Parents K - 3 Open House (evening) 21 Penn Brook Parents 4-6 Open House (evening) 22 HS Band Football Game (vs. Lynn Tech) 23 Students/Parents Mums Pickup (Time TBD see order form) 26 Fundraiser Music and Arts Rental Nigh Newbury Elementary School 28 Fundraiser Music and Arts Rental Night (Melrose) 29 HS Band Football Game (vs. Coyle Cassidy) October 11 Fundraiser Music and Arts Rental Night (Ipswich) 19 Music Parents GMP Fall Membership Meeting at Penn Brook (7pm) 20 HS Band Football Game (vs. Ipswich) TBD HS Band Mini-Camp @ GMHS 28 HS Band Football Game (vs TBA) November 2 Select HS Chorus Students All New England Choral Festival, Plymouth State (All Day) 4 Fundraiser Yankee Candle Order Forms Due 18 (19) Select HS Students Sr. District Auditions (Snow Date Nov. 19) 19 HS Band Haverhill Santa Parade (report 10:15am, parade 1pm) 20 Music Parents Georgetown Music Parents Meeting (7pm) 23 HS Band Thanksgiving Game vs. Manchester Essex December 1 Fundraiser Poinsettia Order Forms Due 1 Students/Parents Yankee Candle Order Pick-up (See order from) 3 HS Band Merrimac Santa Parade (report 10:30am, parade 1pm) 6 HS Chorus/Chorale/Acapella Winter Concert (call: 5:45PM; concert 7 PM) 8 HS Band/Chorus/Chorale/Perley Sr. Citizen Breakfast Concert (in school) 9 Student/Parents Poinsettia Pick-up (Time TBD) 12 Music Parents Georgetown Music Parents Meeting (7pm) 14 MS/HS Bands Winter Concert (report 6pm, concert 7pm) 19 MS Chorus Winter Concert (call: 5:45PM; concert 7 PM) 20 Penn Brook Winter Concert (6pm - 5th grade, 7pm 6th grade)
January 10, 12, 13 Select HS Students Senior District Festival (afternoons/all day Saturday) 18 Music Parents Georgetown Music Parents Meeting (7pm) 20 Select HS Students All-State Auditions (TBD) 27 Select MS and HS Students Jr. District Auditions!10 February 5,6,7 MS and HS Students GMHS Musical Dress Rehearsals (afternoon/evening) 8,9,10 MS and HS Students GMHS Musical (evening) 11 MS and HS students GMHS Musical Snow day 15 Music Parents Georgetown Music Parents Meeting (7pm) March 1-3 Music Faculty/Select HS Students MMEA All-State Conference (all day) 7 Fundraiser Electronics raffle start 7 Select 5-12 Music Students/Parents Dessert Night at Penn Brook 10 Select Penn Brook Students Treble Chorus Festival (all day) 13 Chorus/Chorale Spring Concert (7pm) 14 Fundraiser Spring Bulb orders due (tentative-see order form) 14, 16, 17 Select MS/HS Students Junior District Festival (afternoon/all day Saturday) 15 Music Parents Georgetown Music Parents Meeting (7pm) 22 HS Band Pre-MICCA Concert/Pops Concert (7pm) 23-25 HS Band MICCA Festival (Exact date/time TBD) 30 Fundraiser pick up Pick up Spring bulb orders (Time TBD) April 11 Music Parents Georgetown Music Parents Meeting (7pm) May 7 Music Parents Georgetown Music Parents Meeting (7pm) 10 HS Chorus/Chorale/Acapella Choral Pops Concert (7pm) 16 Penn Brook Students Spring Concert (6pm: 4th/5th Grade, 7pm: 6th Grade) 17 MS/HS Bands Spring Concert (7PM) 23 MS Chorus Spring Concert (call: 6:15; concert: 7:00 7 th /8 th grades) 23 Fundraiser Raffle winning ticket drawn 28 HS Band Memorial Day Breakfast/Parade (8am breakfast, 9am call) June 2 HS Band/Chorale/Chorus Graduation (Report 9am, graduation 10am) 7 Music Parents GMP General Membership Meeting at Penn Brook (7pm)
Junior and Senior District Festivals The Georgetown Music Department is a member of the Massachusetts Music Educators Association (MMEA), which is a state unit of the National Association for Music Education (NAfME). MMEA has over 1,500 members and its goal is to advance and strengthen music education in Massachusetts. One of the ways Georgetown benefits from the MMEA is through its participation in the District Music Festivals. These are annual events with orchestra, band, jazz and chorus performances whose musicians are selected through audition. There are five districts in Massachusetts; Georgetown belongs to the Northeast District. The Junior District Music Festival is open to 7th-9th graders for orchestra, band and jazz and to 6 th -9 th graders for Chorus. The Senior District Music Festival is open to 10th-12th graders. The musicians who perform especially well in their Senior District audition are recommended for an audition to the All-State Music Festival. We encourage our students to participate in the Northeast Senior and Junior District auditions and festivals. Students who would like to be involved in music outside of the school day have a great opportunity to improve and perfect their music skills. If selected you will be given the chance to perform with talented students under excellent conductors. The knowledge and skills you will bring back to our ensembles is greatly respected and appreciated. Registration information will be available soon both online in hard copy format. Students who participate should be ready practice their sight-reading skills and rehearse a challenging selection of music. Senior District Auditions Sat. Nov. 18th, 2017 Senior District Festival Jan. 10th, 12th, and 13th 2018 Sign-up by Friday, October 13th, 2017 Junior District Auditions Sat. Jan. 27th, 2018 Junior District Festival March 14th, 16th, and 17th 2018 Sign-up by Friday, December 15th, 2017!11
GMHS Music Department Contact and Commitment Form is ONLINE! Please visit the link below to complete the Music Department Contact Form.!12 When completed, please sign in both places below to state that you have read the handbook and have completed the online contact form. Return this form to your music teacher by Friday, September 9th, 2017. https://goo.gl/forms/loefrnouzdiqcuoz2 Also available by visiting www.georgetownmusic.weebly.com I have completed the online Music Department Contact Form and have provided all information necessary. Student Signature Parent Signature Date I have read the contents of this handbook that pertain to me/my student and I understand what is expected of me as a participant in the Georgetown Music Department. I have reviewed the calendar carefully and listed any potential conflicts above. I will do everything possible to ensure that I/my student attends all required events that occur outside of the normal school day. Student Signature Parent Signature Date