Due by Wednesday 10/19, signed by parents and YOU!

participation agreement

In Chorus, we plan to engage the imagination, foster flexible ways of thinking and problem solving, develop disciplined effort, and build self-confidence.  The student will gain an understanding of basic musical concepts, and grow in theory, sight-reading, and performance skills.  We explore a variety of musical styles and offer opportunities for extra study and ensemble experience, through Show Choir, scheduled concerts, performances within the community, and District Festivals. 

 The student will develop comprehensive musicianship within the choral rehearsal through a sequenced study of voice, music theory, and the practical application of both in music reading skills. 

The student is expected to

• have his or her rehearsal folder, textbook, sharpened pencil, and music at every rehearsal.
• be present and on time for all rehearsals and performances, including warm-ups, unless illness or family emergency should prevent attendance.  To be excused, the student must notify the director BEFORE the event.
• act with courtesy toward other students and teachers.
• keep school property (books, folders, furniture, sound equipment, etc.) in good condition.
• be prepared to participate in all events during rehearsal.
• learn the repertoire and be a contributing member of the chorus.
• seek extra help when needed.
• demonstrate by a positive attitude and by disciplined behavior that the choir’s excellence is of prime importance.
• show a willingness to cooperate in every way your talent permits.
• exhibit proper rehearsal behavior, which includes listening when the teacher or another student is talking, using appropriate posture for good vocal production, sitting in appropriate sections or assigned seats, avoiding chewing gum in the building, focusing on the music and rehearsals (not on other materials).
• Be in proper concert attire for performances Girls – black skirt [knee-length or longer] or dress pants, white blouse, shoulders and midriff covered, natural stockings, black shoes.  Guys – black slacks, pressed white shirt, dark tie, black socks, black shoes.  (Due to the fact that Middle School students range considerably in size and sometimes grow very quickly at this age, we keep a collection of black and white in the costume loft for those who would like to take advantage of that.  Please see Mrs. Krainis if you would like to explore this possibility.)

 Each student EARNS his/her grade.  It is based upon the contribution made to the success of the group.  And, because choral students are not tested as in core courses, the grade is also based on attitude, behavior, attendance in class and at concerts, and efforts toward the pursuit of excellence.  The student must demonstrate, by his or her actions, dedication to the group’s success.

Our grading procedure for 5^th grade is as follows:

Rehearsal Attendance (10% of final grade)

Rehearsal Skills Grade  (40% of final grade) Based on self- and teacher-assessment of rehearsal participation

Workbook Grade  (20% of final grade) Based on keeping up with assignments in the sightreading and worksheets section of your notebook, and on comprehension of material.

Concert Grade (20% of final grade) Based on attendance at concerts and for pre-concert warm-ups, dressing appropriately, watching the conductor throughout the performance, singing from memory when required, general performance decorum, and concert reflections.

Extra Credit  (additional 10% of final grade) Based on involvement in uncredited or outside ensembles, Honors festivals, and workshops.

PLEASE NOTE:  Excessive absences, whatever their reason, will result in a lowered grade.  Because we have relatively no homework and very few tests, attendance is VERY important.  Because talking is disruptive to our group effort, talking in class will likewise result in a lowered grade.

Performances/Auditions/Field Trips

(Mandatory)

• Thursday, Dec. 8^th – Middle School Arts and Recognition Evening (grades 5-8)
• Friday, April 27^th – Spring Choral Concert @ Yarmouth Performing Arts Center
• Wednesday, May 23^rd – Middle School Recognition Concert (grades 5-8)

 (Optional)

Ensemble Opportunities

• Not Your Average Singers (primarily a gLee-style show-choir; rehearses during activity periods on Fridays)
• Saturday, Dec.3^rd  – Craft Fair at NYA Gym (Holiday Carols & Craft Sales)
• 5^th & 6th grade District Honors Chorus- Wed., Apr. 4^th  (by recommendation & nomination; $10 participation fee)