SHS Choral Music Department Program Guidelines

Classroom Management Plan

In order for choir to meet their goals there must be a structured and safe environment in the classroom. To guarantee students have this excellent educational environment that he/she deserves, the following classroom management plan will be in effect at all times:

Student Expectations

  • Take responsibility for your own development as a musician
  • Every time you sing make it a quality experience
  • Work to master basic musical skills
  • Develop an attitude of wanting to improve everyday
  • Be willing to try new things
  • Display an attitude of effort at all times
  • Come to class prepared to work and learn
  • Be present for all rehearsals and performances
  • Exhibit appropriate classroom behavior at all times
  • Listen carefully during rehearsals. Critical listening improves the quality of the choir
  • Show a willingness to work with others
  • Choir is a group effort, but every individual counts
  • Respect the effort of others. Respect others at all times
  • Practice concert etiquette at all times, especially during rehearsals
  • Make a positive contribution, don't be a distraction to the choir
  • Enjoy experiencing and making beautiful music!

Teacher Expectations List

  • Establish high expectations from the start
  • Establish a routine and basic standards of behavior and stick to it!
  • Treat each student equally, but as an individual
  • Treat each student with respect
  • Respect legitimate effort on the part of every student
  • Display a positive attitude

Classroom Rules

  • Be on the risers at the bell with folder and pencil ready
  • No food, gum, or drink allowed - bottled water is acceptable
  • Respect the rights and property of yourself and others
  • Listen to the teacher and others, speak only when called upon
  • Be responsible for music, assignments, and attendance at rehearsals and concerts

Consequences

If a student chooses not to follow the rules and expectations as set forth, the O.R. system of discipline will be enforced. Tardies and absences will be handled according to school policy. The exception will be dress rehearsals and concerts: Attendance is mandatory at all Concerts and Dress Rehearsals. Only a Doctor's note or attendance at a funeral will be accepted. Make-up work is required.

Goals and Objectives

Our semester will be full of new and enriching, exciting musical experiences. We have a busy schedule for our ensembles. Our auditioned ensembles will be focusing on music for their festivals, Fall Revue, other performances and the Winter Concert. Our beginning choir- Mixed Chorus- will focus on the basics of singing and will present music at the Winter Concert. During the semester we will study proper vocal production and music fundamentals. Students will have the following opportunities at their disposal:

  1. Develop correct vocal technique
  2. Acquire fundamental skills in music theory, sight singing and ear training
  3. Strengthen critical listening skills as a performer and listener
  4. Identify musical elements in varying styles and genres of choral literature and express such style appropriately
  5. Gain a basic understanding of music history and the role it plays in music of all periods
  6. Recognize and demand outstanding musicianship, quality repertoire, choral blend, balance, appropriate style, flawless intonation, beautiful tone and superior performance expectations
  7. Experience the commitment and dedication necessary to develop an outstanding standard of performance and poise
  8. Strengthen leadership skills, teamwork and self-discipline
  9. Implement and develop a rewarding avenue for self expression
  10. Become and independent musician

Grading

Each student will receive a citizenship and letter grade. The following is a guideline I will follow in determining each student's grade.

Citizenship - Student's citizenship will be based upon daily classroom behavior. Following guidelines for classroom behavior will assure a high ranking. Failure to follow guidelines consistently will reduce citizenship marks.

Letter Grade - This will be determined by averaging their attendance grade for mandatory dress rehearsals and concerts, assignments and tests given, and daily effort in class. Missing a concert is like receiving an F on a midterm or final exam. Only a doctor's note or attendance at a funeral will constitute an excused absence from a dress rehearsal or a concert. An excused absence will allow the student to make up the missing grade by doing a make-up assignment. It is the responsibility of the student to ask the teacher about make-up work and to turn it in.

Grading Categories:

  • 40% Concert attendance
  • 20% Dress rehearsal attendance
  • 35% Daily Participation & Attitude
  • 5% Worksheets, quizzes, and tests.

Discipline Policy

Auditioned choirs are special groups and the policies set forth must be strictly adhered to. If the student fails to follow these guidelines they will be asked to leave the class for the remainder of the year.

Parent Involvement

Every year I am in need of parent volunteers. If you've thought you would like to help but don't know how, let me know. I'm sure I could find some way to utilize your talents. Any help is greatly appreciated and really enhances our program. We need your help to make this music program a success!! Please volunteer to help out in one or more of the following areas. It will make a difference to your child and to the program!


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