Course Description:
Level 1 Chorus is for all students at BFMS who have not been in Chorus previously and/or who are new to the school; and who love to sing and perform. Students will focus on using the voice as a musical instrument, reading a musical score, sight-singing, and the rehearsal of choral music. Most importantly, students will develop self-discipline and learn to work cooperatively within a community. The most successful chorus students strive for “excellence” both as individuals and as an ensemble. Class meets every other day for the entire school year.
Class Supplies:
Students will need a pencil for writing. Students will be given a folder to use as a journal that will remain at school. In addition, all students will be held responsible for any materials that are assigned to them, such as sheet music and a chorus folder. Sheet music is the most expensive part of the chorus curriculum. Students are expected to pay for the replacement of any damaged or lost music.
Uniform:
Students will need a white shirt and black or navy blue pants or skirt. Skirts must be knee-length or longer. The school can provide white shirts (adult sizes), but we only have a limited number of small sizes.
Curriculum:
There are four main elements of the Level 1 Chorus curriculum: skill development, reflection and critique, making connections, and approach to work.
In skill development, students will sing canons, unison, and two-part music; will be able to sing a major scale with accurate pitches; will respond to the cues of the conductor; will learn to read music; and will work as a group to create a uniform sound.
In reflection and critique, students will evaluate their own and others’ performances.
In making connections, students will perform songs from different cultures and times.
In approach to work, students will demonstrate proper singing posture and breathing techniques, will set goals for themselves, will demonstrate appropriate interactions with others, and will attend and fully participate in all rehearsals and concerts.
Concert Attendance:
Attendance at concerts is a part of a student’s grade. In order to receive full credit for concerts, each student must:
1. Attend all scheduled group performances!
2. Arrive THIRTY MINUTES before scheduled performance time.
3. Wear the appropriate uniform.
4. Follow the behavior expectations.
5. Use proper concert etiquette when watching others perform.
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