Choir Handbook

Dear Students and Parents,

This is a portion of the information found in the choir handbook that is sent home at the beginning of each year. This document is also handed to new choir students as they join. Please refer to the printed copy in case a discrepancy should arise.

Grading Procedures:

The 6th, 7th, and 8th grade choirs meet every day for the whole year. Grades will be issued every marking period and will be based on the following categories:

· Performances (count as exams and formative assessments)

· Tests/Quizzes

· Class work/Homework

· Class involvement and participation

Note: Performances are absolutely essential to growing as a musician and are the culmination of everything singers learn in choir. It is also the most fun and exciting thing we will do as a group. Attendance and participation for all performances is required of all singers. Performances are counted as major test grades for the marking period in which they occur. Singers must stay for the entire concert to receive credit. Emergencies and sickness will be dealt with on a case by case basis, but it is important that you contact me immediately to avoid a failing grade for the performance.

Performance Attire:

The look of an ensemble is a very important part of performance. To help eliminate confusion the dress code for all performances will be the same for band and choir. Clothing should be clean and neatly pressed (and should probably be tried on well in advance of performances to make sure everything still fits). Remember, the goal is to look like a group. I want you to look as good as you sound. If you have any difficulty in obtaining the correct concert attire please do not hesitate to contact me well in advance of the concert to work things out.

The following are required for all performances:

·Knee Length (covers the knee) or longer black skirt or black dress pants

*(ladies may wear pants)

· Plain white shirt/blouse

· Black shoes (no sneakers)

· Black socks or sheer nylons

· A necktie for the gentlemen

Also, no perfume, aftershave, or scented lotions are to be worn at performances. This is to prevent allergic reactions in close quarters and to make breathing easier while singing.

A Note About Rides:

The school will provide transportation for singers to events during the school day. However, it is the responsibility of parents to make sure their child has a ride to and from school performances and other events as they occur.

My Expectations in the Classroom:

The following are my expectations for all singers involved with the choral program at Skyline.

1) We will respect each other (and ourselves).

2) We will be on time for class.

3) We will bring everything we need to class.

4) We will do our best in everything we do.