Choir
BEAR RIVER MIDDLE SCHOOL
Choir 2015-2016
Syllabus and Handbook
Mr. James R. Achilles
(530) 633-3135 x 2410
Welcome to the Choir Class at Bear River. In this class we will use the study and performance of music to…
- Reinforce the behaviors which lead to success in all areas of students’ lives.
- To facilitate the discovery and growth of students’ musical abilities through standards-based instruction.
- To encourage students’ social growth through musical activities.
- To build student confidence and poise.
- To promote the appreciation and enjoyment of all music in the culture of the school and community.
Music is not the most important thing in life. But it celebrates the most important things, and accompanies the most important things, and expresses the most important things; therefore, it is one of THE most important things in life.
Course Description
Choir is a repeatable class open to all students. Participants learn and perform music in a wide variety of styles; they are equipped with basic skills in musicianship, vocal technique, and choral performance. They receive an introduction to the history of choral music and choral literature. In addition, they experience both the music and values of other cultures through the various pieces of music they perform.
COURSE GOALS AND/OR MAJOR STUDENT OUTCOMES
Students will:
- Acquire a basic knowledge of choral music and performance through listening, rehearsing, and performing pieces from various stylistic and historical genres.
- Understand choral music scoring and read the music for their particular parts, i.e., Soprano, Alto, Tenor, Bass.
- Identify musical idioms and notation common in choral music.
- Express emotion through the use of musical elements whether noted in the score or improvised at the moment. Such elements include rhythm, harmony, tempo, and dynamics.
- Exercise discipline and diligence while participating in rehearsals and group activities.
- Communicate ideas and observations effectively during rehearsals and performances.
- Gain awareness of the role of choirs in various cultural and historical settings.
Grades
Grades will be calculated based on the following criteria.
Daily Participation, Attendance, Preparation 70%
Performances 20%
Assignments and Quizzes (first year students) 10%
It is possible to score poorly in the chorus class. Students who fail to prepare for classes and performances will face low grades and possible failure.
Daily Participation
Students begin each week with twenty-five “participation” points. Students will be able to retain their points by complying with the Class Expectations listed in this syllabus.
Students who do not comply with the Class Expectations will lose five points a day—and more if no corrections are made. Causes for losing participation points include:
- Coming to class without music or other necessary supplies.
- Excessive talking or causing distractions.
- Unexcused absences.
- Performing poorly on a test or quiz—specifically one that was based on material rehearsed in class.
Performances
Performing is an important part of music education. Performances serve as authentic assessments of musical growth and skill. They provide a forum in which to apply the knowledge gained in class. Students must participate in performances in order to pass the class. They must be prompt and properly attired.
KNOWN MANDATORY PERFORMANCES FOR THIS YEAR:
Wheatland Downtown Tree Lighting December 5
Winter Concert December 16
Spring Trip May 12-15
Spring Concert May 26
Caring For Printed Music
Students are responsible for taking care of the printed music they use throughout the year. The sheet music remains the property of Bear River School. Students are required to replace each piece of sheet music they lose, mangle, tear, or render useless. The director may request at any time to see a student’s folder to be sure all music is in place, properly cared for, and used during rehearsal.