GROVEPORT MADISON HIGH SCHOOL Choral Department Handbook Ms. Rebecca M. Reckart Choral Director (614) 836 4964 ex. 479 rebecca.reckart@gocruisers.org Room 137 (Choir Room)
Groveport Madison Choral Department 4475 South Hamilton Road Groveport,OH 43215 (614) 836 4964 Dear Choir Students and Parents, Welcome to another year of music making with the Groveport Madison High School Choral Department! It is my pleasure to return as the director to this continually growing program. Returning members, I cannot wait to work together to make this our best year so far. New members, I m so happy you decided to join us this year and look forward to getting to know you. In choir at GMHS, you will learn so much more than just how to sing together. Through choral music, you will learn about other cultures, math concepts (don t worry, they re easy!), science concepts, foreign languages, and how to connect with other people. Music is far more than replicating notes written on a page; it is a discipline that affects every part of our lives. As musicians, you will also learn qualities such as loyalty, discipline, courage, and leadership. I hope not only to teach all choir students how to be great musicians and pass on a love and respect for all different types of music, but also to also help them become the best people they can be. The following handbook outlines and presents the objectives, expectations, grading policies, schedules, and rules of the Groveport Madison High School Choral Department. Please read all information very carefully! Please have sign the Handbook Contract and return it by Thursday, September 1, 2016. Welcome to the GMHS Choral Department Family! Sing cerely, Ms. Rebecca M. Reckart
2016 17 GMHS Choral Department Goals & Objectives Our main goal of the 2016 2017 academic year is to build, unify, and strengthen a Choral Department that develops the future singers/musicians through the study of music theory, different cultural and musical genres, and performance of high quality music at Groveport Madison High School. Specific Objectives Continue to increase the number of students within the program and develop an environment that encourages retention. Fundraise enough money to cover some of the costs of contest registrations, uniform upkeep and purchases, trip costs, and sheet music purchases. Take choirs to OMEA Large Group Adjudicated Events for the first time since the 2004 2005 academic year. Reintroduce full choral programs into each middle school in the district. (projected goal end date: 2020 2021 academic year) The Benefits of Choral Singing Singing in choir not only teaches students basic musical skills, concepts and vocal production technique, but also develops professionalism, self discipline, team work and an appreciation for the arts. Students who study music from an early age have shown higher math and science aptitudes. Music students, on average, have higher SAT and ACT scores than non music students. In addition, music students have higher GPAs than non music students. The disciplines learned in a singing group will enable the student to participate in lifelong musical activities including many adult choral organizations. Singing offers a great physical and emotional outlet for young people, cultivating the expressive part of their personality in a positive manner which will carry over into adulthood.
The Choral Ensembles of Groveport Madison High School Concert Choir Grade Level(s): 9, 10, 11, 12 Prerequisite: None This is a class primarily for beginning singers who enjoy singing and choose to strive for excellence in future choral participation. Music of sufficient difficulty will be performed in concerts, OMEA adjudicated events, and other performances. This class is for students with self discipline and a genuine interest in singing. The group may be a treble (SA) choir or mixed choir (SAB), depending on enrollment. Previous singing experience is not required. Participation in several concerts, after school rehearsals and OMEA adjudicated events is required. Men s Chorus Grade Level(s): 9, 10, 11, 12 Prerequisite: Meeting with Director A variety of choral works for men s voices will be rehearsed throughout the year and performed at several concerts. Students will increase the maturity and flexibility of the voice through a broader range of experience. Music will range from traditional, to barbershop, to spirituals, and to pop. Previous singing experience is recommended but not required. Participation in several concerts, after school rehearsals and OMEA adjudicated events is required. Women s Chorus Grade Level(s): 9, 10, 11, 12 Prerequisite: Meeting with Director A variety of choral works for women s voices will be rehearsed throughout the year and performed at several concerts. Students will increase the maturity and flexibility of the voice through a broader range of experience. Music will range from traditional, to spirituals, and to pop. Previous singing experience is recommended but not required. Participation in several concerts, after school rehearsals and OMEA adjudicated events is required. Symphonic Choir Grade Levels: 10, 11, 12 Prerequisite: Audition & director s signature This select, advanced level choir is open to those students who demonstrate sufficient interest, ability and musical knowledge. The choir constantly works for improved choral sound and technique. This ensemble is dedicated to the performance of a variety of music styles. Professionalism in all aspects of performance is stressed. A prime goal of this group is to develop vocal skills allowing the students to learn greater variety of literature and perform more frequently. Previous singing experience is strongly recommended but not required. Participation in several concerts, after school rehearsals and OMEA adjudicated events is required. Divisi Grade Levels: 10, 11, 12 Prerequisite: Audition & director s signature This small select ensemble course is designed for students who are interested in performing traditional and popular a cappella style music. Students will learn how to use proper singing techniques as they study a wide variety of classical, folk, and popular music in 4 to 8 part harmony. Previous singing experience is strongly recommended. Participation in several concerts, after school rehearsals and OMEA adjudicated events is required.
Classroom Policies & Grading Class Participation: 50% Come to class on time. (GMHS tardy policy in effect at all times) Come to class daily. (Nature and frequency of absence will affect grade.) Limit hall pass requests. (Restroom passes should be reserved for beginning or end of class.) Have complete folder and a pencil daily. Check board upon entry. It will always have specific requests or plans. Exhibit self control, mutual respect, and cooperation amongst your peers and instructor(s). Meet or exceed expectations based on the request of the moment. No electronic devices! Daily points will be deducted when a device is out. No food, candy, gum, or soft drinks. (Water IS permitted and encouraged.) Actively engage in rehearsal at all times. (No homework or other distractions.) Turn in any permission slips, contracts, and/or correspondence on or before the date due. Development of Technique: (May include, but is not limited to the following) Perform in a small ensemble for your peers and instructor. Constantly evaluate your efforts based on guidelines (rubrics, etc.) covered in class. Take notes every time a concept is covered as repertoire is being explored. Plan on modeling a passage when asked. Rehearse outside of class with others. Written Assessments: Complete any homework assigned. Take a written test over concepts covered in class. Complete a self assessment on a rubric. Write a review of a concert. Students who choose not to adhere to the above will earn... 1st offense warning by teacher 2nd offense conference with teacher 3rd offense write up, phone call home 4th offense write up, phone call home, PT Conference 5th+ offense write up, PT conference with principal, potential dismissal from group Major Performance: 50% All the processes listed above culminate in a major concert/competition that will occur during each grading period. This final assessment publicly/professionally presents a mastery of the concepts covered in class every day. Attendance to these events is MANDATORY. A calendar of dates is always sent home in the handbook at the beginning of the school year, so plan accordingly.
Attendance & Make Up Policies Daily Attendance Student attendance is important to a fine performing ensemble. A student must be IN CLASS in order to contribute to the ensemble. Unexcused absences from school/class will negatively affect your grade. Students with excessive absences lower the overall group potential. Absences and tardies have a strong impact on your performance ability because it is impossible for us to be at our best as a choral ensemble when people are absent or late. Students are expected to be in their assigned sections when the bell rings, with music folder, a pencil, and any other required materials in hand. Missing class due to making up an assignment or test for another class is unacceptable. Student Health Issues If you have any health problem that could affect your performance in the Choral Music Department, you should inform Ms. Reckart immediately. This information is kept in confidence with the school health office. If you have a sore throat and should not sing, tell Ms. Reckart BEFORE class begins. Throat lozenges are permitted with permission. If you are sick and present in class, you are expected to actively participate in the rehearsal by being actively engaged in the music by singing mentally with the choir. This is NOT a time for texting or doing other homework, but REHEARSAL. Absences from After School Rehearsals & Major Performances While some types of absences are more acceptable than others, all students that are absent from an after school rehearsal or major performance, regardless of absence type, will be required to complete a mandatory make up assignment. If you have a conflict, complete an absence request form (located in the choir room) AS SOON AS YOU ARE AWARE OF THE CONFLICT AND BEFORE YOU ARE ABSENT. The director will review your request and return it to you, indicating whether you are excused or not. If you are not excused, you are expected to be at the rehearsal/performance. Below excused and unexcused absences. If your absence is not listed, see Ms. Reckart to clarify. Excused Absences Unexcused Absences Sudden, severe illness not a cold (Dr. note required) Death in family (with documentation) Family emergencies (parent note & conference required) School sponsored activities (4 weeks or more notice) Some planned absences (4 weeks or more notice) Minor illness (no Dr. s note) Having to work Unable to find a ride/proper attire School sponsored activities (less than 4 weeks notice) Some planned absences (less than 4 weeks notice) Being suspended
Make Up Assignment for Rehearsals & Major Performances Students who are absent from. An After School Rehearsal: will individually record all rehearsed music and send the recording to the director. Students who do not complete the make up assignment within three days after the rehearsal will receive a failing grade for the missed after school rehearsal. A Major Performance: will individually perform all concert music from memory in front of the class. All pitches, rhythms, dynamics, articulations, entrances, cut offs, and lyrics from each piece must be correct to earn full credit. Students will also receive written and/or verbal evaluations from their fellow ensemble members (peer evaluations will have no weight on their grade). Students who do not complete the make up assignment within one week after the concert will receive a failing grade for the missed major performance. Student Performance Guidelines & Etiquette 1.) Performances are school related functions, and therefore all rules of conduct as well as dress code as stated in the GMHS student handbook apply at all times. 2.) All students are expected to sit in the audience as a group until it is their turn to perform. 3.) Students are not to talk or use electronic devices while in the audience or on stage. 4.) All students are required to stay until the concert is complete. 5.) Proper performance apparel is required (see Performance Attire section). 6.) When school transportation is provided to performances, all students must use that transportation unless arrangements are made beforehand with the director. The parent/guardian must then transport the student personally. No student is permitted to drive when school transportation is provided. Performance Attire Concert Choir: Must be supplied by student. Men: White collared shirt, dark dress pants, dark socks, & dark dress shoes. Ties, optionals. Women: White dress shirt/blouse, dark dress pants/skirt, dark socks/flesh colored tights, & dark/neutral colored dress shoes. Men s Chorus Attire: Must be supplied by student. White dress shirt, red tie, khaki pants, navy blue blazer, & dark dress shoes. Women s Chorus Attire: Must be supplied by student. Black dress or black shirt/skirt/pants combination. Sensible, neutral colored shoes are to be worn.
Symphonic Choir Attire: Choir Robe/Stole will be provided. Members of Men s/ Women s: Must wear Men s/women s attire under their robe. Non Men s/women s members: See requirements for Concert, Men s, or Women s and follow them. Divisi Attire: All black dress clothes with one red accent piece. Other Performance Attire Notes Earrings should be as neutral and small as possible. Extremely large or layers of necklaces and/or bracelets are not permitted. Most facial jewelry is permitted but any piercings in the mouth area should be removed or have a clear retainer put in for concerts. If you have questions, see Ms. Reckart. The following are NEVER acceptable as performance attire: jeans, leggings/jeggings, shorts, athletic/gym clothing, t shirts, or tennis shoes (Nikes, Converse, etc.). Failing to wear appropriate concert attire will result in a lowered performance grade and, in some cases, result in the student not being able to perform. If you have issues getting your performance attire, approach Ms. Reckart at least a week before the concert. She or other choir members may be able to assist you in obtaining the correct attire. Fundraising All students are expected to support the choral department by participating in fundraisers throughout the year that will help to fund the purchasing of new music & performance attire, the upkeep of choir robes, tripe costs for all students, and contest registration fees. Participating in fundraisers will keep there from being fees attached to choir in the future. Website You can find a copy of this handbook along with other class documents and information at: https://www.gmhschoirs.weebly.com Remind Students are required to sign up for Remind Texts within the first week of classes. Text the correct class code(s), with the @ symbol, to the number 81010 : Concert Choir Remind: @reckartcc Men s Chorus Remind: @reckartmc Women s Chorus Remind: @reckartwc Symphonic Choir Remind: @reckartsc Divisi Remind: @reckardiv Choir Parent Remind: @reckartcp
2016 2017 GMHS CHORAL DEPARTMENT DATES This is not meant to be a final or all inclusive list. Events may change or be added at any time. Fall Semester 2016 After School Rehearsals^* Tuesday, October 18 @ 2:30 5:15pm Wednesday, October 19 @ 2:30 5:15pm ^Attendance required *Choirs will be assigned a date/time as needed. Fall Preview Concert^ Thursday, October 20th at 7:30pm 6:00pm Concert Call (All Choirs) After School Rehearsals^* Tuesday, December 13 @ 2:30 5:15pm Wednesday, December 14 @ 2:30 5:15pm *Choirs will be assigned a date/time as needed. Holiday Concert^ Thursday, December 15th at 7:30pm 6:00pm Concert Call (All Choirs) Spring Semester 2017 OMEA Solo & Ensemble* Saturday, January 21st Times TBA *Divisi members are REQUIRED to participate. After School Rehearsals^* Tuesday, February 14 @ 2:30 5:15pm Wednesday, February 15 @ 2:30 5:15pm *Choirs will be assigned a date/time as needed. 2nd Annual Festival Concert^ Thursday, February 23rd at 7:30pm 6:00pm Concert Call (All Choirs) ^Attendance required OMEA District Adjudicated Event^ Friday, March 3rd OR Saturday, March 4th Times TBA After School Rehearsals (if going to State)^ Tuesday, April 25th or Wednesday, April 26th OMEA State Adjudicated Event^ Friday, April 28th OR Saturday, April 29th Times TBA Spring Concert^ Thursday, May 23rd at 7:30pm 6:00pm Concert Call (All Choirs) Music in the Parks Trip*# Friday, May 26th Performance/Overnight stay Saturday, May 27th Cedar Point & Awards *Select groups only. #Students must meet certain requirements to go on this trip. Graduation^* Date & Time TBA ^Attendance required for retention in Symphonic Choir. *Symphonic members & seniors only.
GMHS Choral Department Handbook Contract Please read the Groveport Madison Choral Department Handbook thoroughly and return this form with proper signatures no later than Sept. 1, 2016. Student: I have read, understand, and agree to comply with all the expectations and guidelines of the Groveport Madison Choral Department. Student Printed Name Student Signature Date Parent/Guardian(s): Please sign this document to indicate that your child has shown you this handbook, that you have read it together, and you both understand and agree to comply with the expectations and guidelines of the Groveport Madison Choral Department. Parent/Guardian Printed Name Parent/Guardian Signature Date *Please also see the attached Volunteer Form.* *It must be turned in by Friday, September 16th, 2016.*
GMHS Choral Department Volunteer Form Dear Choir Families, Dedicated parent volunteers are needed in order for our program to expand and grow to its full potential! Your help is strongly encouraged and would also be GREATLY appreciated! Please check all the apply: I would be interested in volunteering for HOSPITALITY (getting food/drinks for students, picking up guest clinicians from the airport, special occasions) I would be interested in assisting at CONCERTS. I would be interested in helping with FUNDRAISING. I am available to help with activities/administrative work during school days. I am interested in helping with a Parent Booster organization I have a special talent: Parent Name(s): Student(s) Name: Home Phone: Daytime or Cell Phone: Email Address (please print clearly, thanks!): Sincerely, Rebecca M. Reckart, GMHS Choral Director *This form is due by Friday, September 16th, 2016. Thank you!*