Handbook 2014-2015

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Table of Contents Note from the Directors………….……………………………………………………………….3

Choir Forms Checklist……………....……………………………………………………………4

Choir Calendar……...………....………………………………………………………………..5-8

Our Mission

Our Goal……………………...…………………………………………….……………...8

Benefits of music………....…………………………………………….…………………..9

TEKS website………………………………………………………….…………………...9

Who We Are

Rowlett Choral Ensembles…………...……………………………………….…………..10

Rowlett Choral Staff…………………..…………………………….……………………11

Voice Instructors……………………...……………….………………………………….12

Expectations

Student Expectations………………..……………………………………….……….…..13

Performance and Rehearsal Expectations………….…………………………………..14

Director Expectations………………………………….………………………………15

A Cappella After-School Rehearsals…………………...………...……………………..15

Use of Fine Arts Facilities and Equipment……………………......……………………..16

Choir Communication…………………………………………..……………………....16

Grading Policies and Procedures………………………………....……………………...17

Other Performance Opportunities……………………………………….……………………....18

2014-15 RHS Dress Code and Grooming Policy for clubs, organizations, etc…………………..19

Choir Uniforms…………………………………………………………….……………………..20

Award Jackets……………………………………………………………......……………………20

For Parents

Parent Volunteers………………………………………………...…………………..…21

RHS Choir Booster Club………………………………………...……………………...21

Financial Policy…………………………………………………………….……………………....22

Choir Activity Fees……………………………………………...……………………….22

Depositing Money……………………………………………..………………………...23

Cash/Check Payments………………………………...………………………..23

Credit/Debit Payments………………………………..……………………….24

Fundraising…………………………………………………….………………………..24

Music Enrichment Program (Voice Lessons)………………….………………………..24

Choir Forms

RHS Choral Handbook Acknowledgment Form………………………………………25

Volunteer Program Application Form………………………………………………….26

Garland ISD Volunteer Criminal History Update………………………………….27-29

The GISD Music Enrichment Program Parent Information Sheet……………………..30

Student Registration for Music Enrichment Instruction……………………………......31

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Welcome! Welcome to the Rowlett HS Choral Department! Being a member of the RHS Choral

Department is an honor and a privilege. We are thrilled that you have chosen to become part

of our choir family and hope that the musical experiences we share will be a source of joy, a

time for personal growth and a chance to develop life-long friendship with others who love to

sing.

This handbook details the many facets of the RHS Choral Department and strives to answer

as many questions as possible. It describes our goals and expectations for the school year. As

musicians and teachers, these expectations are high. Students will benefit from these high

expectations and grow musically through discipline, hard work and optimum performance

opportunities.

After you have taken the time to read through the handbook, please sign and return the

Acknowledgement Form by Friday, Sept. 5th. A grade will be taken based upon

successful completion of this task, the skills of following directions and meeting deadlines are

paramount to success in life and as a Rowlett High School choir member.

We are so fortunate to have the opportunity to work with such a fine group of young people

and their families. We are looking forward to seeing old friends and meeting all the new faces

as we strive for success this year. Please feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns.

Sincerely,

Karen Lewis and Evan Ramos, Directors School email: kmlewis@garlandisd.net ejramos@garlandisd.net

Choir office phone: 972-463-1712, ext. 62533

RHS choir on the web:

1. www.garlandisdschools.net/page.cfm?p=2228

2. www.charmsoffice.com

Login: rowletthschoir

Password: student 6-digit ID number

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Choir Forms

Checklist

MANDATORY FORMS AND FEES to be turned into the choir office by September 5th

______RHS Choir Handbook Acknowledgement Form (pp. 22)

______Choir Activity Fee (check page to see how much you owe)

______Tuxedo Shirt Fee ($16, for first-year male students only)

Optional Forms and Fees to be turned into the choir office by September 5th:

To be a Parent Volunteer (for an overnight event only)

______ Volunteer Program Application Form (pp.23)

______GISD Background Check Form (pp. 24-26)

______Copy of a Valid US ID (Driver’s License, etc.)

To take Voice Lessons

______Music Enrichment Form (Voice Lessons Form) (pp.28)

______Payment for 1st Lesson ($17)

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August Event Location Time Participants

Aug. 6-8 GISD All Region Choir Workshop Garland High School 9:00AM-12:00PM Interested Choir Students

Aug. 12 Flight School Rowlett High School 9:00AM-12:00PM Choir Officers not attending GISD Workshop

Aug. 16 Region 3 Music Meeting Lake Highlands HS 10:00AM-12:00PM Choir Directors

Aug. 14-22 Staff Development Rowlett HS 8:00AM-4:00PM Choir Directors

Aug. 21 Acappella Pancake Breakfast IHOP - N. Garland 6:30AM-9:30AM Acappella Members

Aug. 26 All-Region Audition Meeting/Women's Rehearsal RHS Choir Room 2:40-3:00 pm Interested Singers

Aug. 27 Men's All Region Rehearsal RHS Choir Room 3:00-4:00 p.m. Interested Singers

Aug. 26 Executive Board Meeting Off Campus 6:00 p.m. Executive Board Booster Club Officers

Sept. 5 All Choir Forms and Fees Due RHS Choir Room throughout school day ALL Choirs

SEPTEMBER Event Location Time Participants

Sept. 2 Women's All Region Rehearsal RHS Choir Room 2:40-3:40 p.m. Region Female Candidates

Sept. 2 All Choir Picnic Water Park Pavillon 5:30-7:00 p.m. All Choir Members

Sept. 3 Men's All Region Rehearsal RHS Choir Room 2:40-3:40 p.m. Interested Singers

Sept. 4 Appointment All Region Tutorials

Sept. 5 All Choir Forms and Fees Due RHS Choir Room throughout school day ALL Choirs

Sept. 8* A'Cp Women/Men Sectionals RHS Choir Room/Ensemble Rm 2:40-3:40 p.m. Acappella Choir

Meet the Teacher Night RHS 5:30-7:00 p.m. Parents

Sept. 9 Women's All Region Rehearsal RHS Choir Room 2:40-3:40 p.m. Region Female Candidates

Sept. 9 Executive Board Meeting RHS Choir Room 6:00-6:45 p.m. Executive Board Booster Club Officers

Sept. 9 Choir Booster Club Meeting RHS Choir Room 6:45-7:45 p.m. All Choir Parents

Sept. 10 Men's All Region Rehearsal RHS Choir Room 2:40-3:40 p.m. Interested Singers

All Choir Fundraiser Begins RHS Choir Room throughout school day ALL Choirs

Sept. 11 Individuals All Region Tutorials RHS Choir Room 2:40-3:40 p.m. Interested Singers

Sept. 12 Tux Shirt Measuring Day RHS Choir Room throughout school day Male Choir Students

Sept. 15* A'Cp Women/Men Sectionals RHS Choir Room/Ensemble Rm 2:40-3:40 p.m. Acappella Choir

A'Cp after school Homecoming Decorating 3:45-5:00 p.m. Acp Student Volunteers

Sept. 16 Women's All Region Rehearsal RHS Choir Room 2:40-3:40 p.m. Region Female Candidates

A'Cp after school Homecoming Decorating 3:45-5:00 p.m. Acp Student Volunteers

Sept. 17 Men's All Region Rehearsal RHS Choir Room 2:40-3:40 p.m. Interested Singers

A'Cp after school Homecoming Decorating 3:45-5:00 p.m. Acp Student Volunteers

Sept. 18 RHS All Region Mock Auditions RHS Choir Room 2:30-5:45 p.m. Auditioning Singers

Homecoming Game HBJ call 6:30 pm; start 7:30 p.m. Chamber Singers

Sept. 22* A'Cp Women/Men Sectional RHS Choir Room/Ensemble Rm 2:40-3:40 p.m. Acappella Choir

Fund Raising Forms Due RHS Choir Room throughout school day ALL Choirs

Sept. 24 Men's All Region Individual Tutorials RHS Choir Room 2:40-3:40 p.m. Region Male Candidates

Sept. 25 Women's All Region Individual Tutorials RHS Choir Room 2:40-3:40 p.m. Region Female Candidates

Sept. 26 ? Acappella Choir Retreat TBA TBA Acappella

Sept. 30 First Grading Period Ends

Sept. 29 Choir Concert Rehearsals Auditorium All Day All Choirs

Sept. 29 FALL CHOIR CONCERT/Ice Cream S. Auditorium/Cafeteria

6:15 call; Start 7:15 p.m. ALL Choirs

Sept. 30 Women's All Region Individual Tutorials RHS Choir Room 2:40-3:40 p.m. Region Female Candidates

OCTOBER Event Location Time Participants

Oct. 1 Men's All Region Individual Tutorials RHS Choir Room 2:40-3:40 p.m. Region Male Candidates

Oct. 2 Individuals All Region Tutorials RHS Choir Room 2:40-3:40 p.m. Interested Singers

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Oct. 6 FAIR DAY

Oct. 7* Phase I All Region Auditions Sachse HS 3 - 8 p.m. Interested singers & Choir Volunteers

Oct. 8-10 All Region Individual Rehearsals RHS Choir Room By Appointment Interested singers

Oct. 11 Phase II All Region Auditions Poteet HS - Mesquite All Day Interested singers

Oct. 14 Choir Executive Board Meeting RHS Choir Room 6:00-6:45 p.m. Choir Executive Board

Oct. 14 Choir Booster Club Meeting RHS Choir Room 6:45-7:45 p.m. All Choir Parents

Oct. 14 Pre Area Tryout Rehearsal-Women RHS Choir Room 2:40-3:40 p.m. Pre-Area Female Candidates

Oct. 15 Pre-Area Tryout Rehearsal-Men RHS Choir Room 2:40-3:40 p.m. Pre-Area Male Candidates

Acappella Polaroid Party RHS Choir Room 6:00PM-9:00PM Acappella

Oct. 17 RSVP Ad Sales Begin

Oct. 17 ? A'Cp Retreat TBD 5:00PM-1PM Acappella Members

Oct. 20 A'Cp Women/Men Sectional RHS Choir Room/Ensemble Rm 2:40-3:40 p.m. Acappella Choir

Oct. 21 Pre Area Tryout Rehearsal - Women RHS Choir Room 2:40-3:40 p.m. Pre-area Female candidates

Oct. 22 Pre-Area Tryout Rehearsal-Men RHS Choir Room 2:40-3:40 p.m. Pre-Area Male Candidates

Oct. 27 A'Cp Women/Men Sectional RHS Choir Room/Ensemble Rm 2:40-3:40 p.m. Acappella Choir

Oct. 28 All Region Choir Rehearsal Mesquite HS 4:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m. All Region members

Oct. 30 Musical - "Chicago" Auditions RHS Choir Room 2:40-6:00 p.m. Interested Singers

NOVEMBER Event Location Time Participants

Nov. 1 All Region Choir Clinic/Concert Richardson HS 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. All Region members-Required

Nov. 3* Acappella Women/Men Rehearsal RHS Choir Room & Ensemble Room 2:40-3:40 p.m. Acappella

Nov. 4 Pre-Area Tryout Rehearsal-Women RHS Choir Room 2:40 p.m.-3:40 p.m. Pre-area Female candidates

Nov. 5 Pre-Area Tryout Rehearsal-Men RHS Choir Room 2:40-3:40 p.m. Pre-area Male candidates

Nov. 6 Pre-Area Tryout Rehearsal-Women RHS Choir Room 2:40-3:40 p.m. Pre-Area Female Candidates

Nov. 6 Choir Executive Board Meeting RHS Choir Room 6:00-6:45 p.m. Choir Executive Board

Nov. 6 Choir Booster Club Meeting RHS Choir Room 6:45-7:45 p.m. All Choir Parents

Nov. 7 Pre-Area Tryout Rehearsal-Men RHS Choir Room 2:40-3:40 p.m. Pre-Area Male Candidates

Nov. 7 2nd Grading Period Ends

Nov. 10 Acappella Women/Men Rehearsal RHS Choir Room & Ensemble Room 2:40-3:40 p.m. Acappella

Nov. 11 HS Choir Pre Area Auditions Naaman Forest HS 4 - 8 p.m. Pre-area candidates

Nov. 17 Acappella Women/Men Rehearsal RHS Choir Room & Ensemble Room 2:40-3:40 p.m. Acappella

DECEMBER Event Location Time Participants

Dec. 1* Acp Women/Men Rehearsals RHS Choir Room 2:40-3:15 p.m. Acappella Women

Dec. 8 A'Cp Women/Men Rehearsals RHS Choir Room/Auditorium 2:40-3:40 p.m. Acappella

Dec. 9 Executive Board Meeting RHS Choir Room 6:00 - 6:45 p.m. Executive Board Booster Club Officers

Dec. 9 Choir Booster Club Meeting RHS Choir Room 6:45-7:45 p.m. All Choir Parents

Dec. 10 Rowlett Chamber of Commerce Rowlett Rec Ctr. School day RSVP

Dec. 11* Winter Choir Concert RHS Auditorium 6:15 call; Start 7:30 p.m. All Choirs

Dec. 12 Acappella Polaroid Party Stacey William's House 5:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m. Acappella members

Dec. 19 3rd Grading Period Ends

JANUARY Event Location Time Participants

Jan. 6 First Day Back

Jan. 13 Choir Executive Board Meeting RHS Choir Room 6:00-6:45 p.m. Choir Executive Board

Jan. 13 Choir Booster Club Meeting RHS Choir Room 6:45-7:45 p.m. All Choir Parents

Jan. 10 TMEA Area Auditions Texas AM/Commerce All Day Area candidates

Jan. 12* Acp Women/Men Rehearsal RHS Choir Room/Ensemble Rm 2:40-3:40 p.m. Acappella

Jan. 20 Acp Women/Men Rehearsal RHS Choir Room/Ensemble Rm 2:40-3:40 p.m. Acappella

Jan. 23 RSVP Ad Sales Due RHS Choir Room 2:30 p.m. RSVP Students/Parents

Jan. 29-Feb. 1 RHS School Musical RHS Auditorium 7:00 p.m. Cast & crew members

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FEBRUARY Event Location Time Participants

Feb. 2* A'Cp Women Rehearsal RHS Choir Room 2:40-3:40 p.m. Acappella Choir Students

Feb. 3* A'Cp Men Rehearsal RHS Choir Room

Feb. 5* Choir Executive Board Meeting RHS Choir Room 6:00-6:45 p.m. Choir Executive Board

Feb. 5* Choir Booster Club Meeting RHS Choir Room 6:45-7:45 p.m. All Choir Parents

Feb. 9* A'Cp Women Rehearsal RHS Choir Room 2:40-3:40 p.m. Acappella Choir Students

Feb. 10 A'Cp Men Rehearsal RHS Choir Room 2:40-3:40 p.m. Acappella Choir Students

Feb. 11-13 TMEA Clinic/Convention San Antonio various All State members

Feb. 16* A'Cp Women Rehearsal RHS Choir Room 2:40-3:40 p.m. Acappella Female Students

Feb. 17* A'Cp Men Rehearsal RHS Choir Room 2:40-3:40 p.m. Acappella Male Students

Feb. 20 4th Grading Period Ends

Feb. 21 UIL Solo/Ensemble Contest Lakeview Centennial HS-Garland All Day Soloists & Ensembles

Feb. 25 Madrigal Dinner Rehearsal RHS Auditorium & Cafeteria 4:00-8:00 p.m. RHS Chamber Singers and Crew

Feb. 27 Madrigal Dinner RHS Auditorium & Cafeteria 2:45-10:00 p.m. RHS Chamber Singers and Crew

Feb. 28 Madrigal Dinner RHS Auditorium & Cafeteria 2:45-10:00 p.m. RHS Chamber Singers and Crew

MARCH Event Location Time Participants

Mar. 2* A'CP Women Rehearsal RHS Choir Room 2:40-3:40 p.m. Acappella Women

Mar. 3* Combined Men Rehearsal RHS Choir Room 2:40-3:40 p.m. Acappella Men

Mar. 16* A'CP Women Rehearsal RHS Choir Room 2:40-3:40 p.m. Acappella Women

Mar. 17* Combined Men Rehearsal RHS Choir Room 2:40-3:40 p.m. Acappella Men

Mar. 17* Choir Executive Board Meeting RHS Choir Room 6:00-6:45 p.m. Choir Executive Board

Mar. 17* Choir Booster Club Meeting RHS Choir Room 6:45-7:45 p.m. All Choir Parents

Mar. 26* CHOIR PRE-UIL CLINIC Auditorium 2:45-8:00 p.m. All Choirs

Mar. 27 Choir Lock In TBD Acappella members

Mar. 30 Acp Women Rehearsal RHS Choir Room 2:40-3:40 p.m. Acappella Women

Mar. 31 Combined Men Rehearsal RHS Choir Room 2:40-3:40 p.m. Combined Men

APRIL Event Location Time Participants

Apr. 1* Women's Chorale Rehearsal RHS Choir Room 2:40-3:40 p.m. Women's Chorale

Apr. 2* Women's Choir Rehearsal RHS Choir Room 2:40-3:40 p.m. Women's Choir

Apr. 6-7* UIL Choir Rehearsals Auditorium School day Hours All Choirs

Apr. 8-10* UIL Choir Contest Horn HS - Mesquite TBD Varsity UIL choirs

Apr. 17 5th Grading Period Ends

Apr. 21* Choir Executive Board Meeting RHS Choir Room 6:00-6:45 p.m. Choir Executive Board

Apr. 21* Choir Booster Club Meeting RHS Choir Room 6:45-7:45 p.m. All Choir Parents

Apr. 24-27 Band Trip TBA TBA TBA

Apr. 26 RSVP Set Construction Auditorium 1:30-6:00 p.m. RSVP

April 27-29 RSVP Spring Show Rehearsals Auditorium 3:00-9:00 p.m. RSVP

Apr. 30-May 1 RSVP Spring Show RHS Auditorium

All Day; Performance 7:30 p.m. RSVP

MAY Event Location Time Participants

May. 2 PROM

May. 11 RSVP Auditions RHS Choir Room 2:45-6:00 p.m. Interested Students

May.12 RSVP Callbacks Auditorium 1:45-5:00 p.m. Interested Students

May. 12 Choir Executive Board Meeting RHS Choir Room 6:00-6:45 p.m. Choir Executive Board

May. 12 Choir Booster Club Meeting RHS Choir Room 6:45-7:45 p.m. All Choir Parents

May. 13 Chamber Singer Auditions RHS Choir Room and 2 Practice Rooms 2:45-7:00 p.m. Interested Students

May.14 Chamber Singer Callbacks RHS Choir Room 2:45-5:00 p.m. Interested Students

Senior Luncheon TBD 9:30-2:00 p.m. RSVP/Chamber ?

May 18-20 Dinner Show Rehearsals RHS Choir Room 2:40-5:00 p.m. Dinner Show Performing Acts

May 21-22 Dinner Show Rehearsals Auditorium ALL DAY - onstage All Choirs

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May. 22 Dinner Show - 6:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. Auditorium & Cafeteria 2:30 p.m. - 11:00 p.m.

All Choirs Perform - Parents Help

TBD Choir Banquet Off Campus - TBD 7:00 p.m. All Choirs

TBD Choir Trip TBA Acappella Choir & W. Chorale students

OUR GOAL

Through participation in the ensembles offered at Rowlett High School, students are afforded

the opportunity to achieve the following goals of the program:

Attain a healthy sound through the exploration of vocal technique and proper posture.

Develop strong musicianship skills through the performance of “quality” choral literature, including the

following:

o Sight-reading previously unrehearsed music.

o Singing with line.

o Singing with proper diction and articulation.

o Singing with expression.

o Singing as an ensemble.

Sing in a variety of styles, languages and ensembles

Learn through teamwork, a sense of responsibility, and commitment through a variety of performance

opportunities.

Achieve a better appreciation, understanding, and respect for choral and vocal literature through

performance and experience.

Students are presented with the opportunity to build individual musicianship skills through small

ensembles and solo performance opportunities throughout the school year.

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BENEFITS OF MUSIC

In The Arts: An Essential Ingredient in Education, J. Buchen Millet states “research shows that when

arts are included in the student’s curriculum, reading, writing and math scores improve.” Like

all the arts, music has a profound influence on the academic success of a student.

o PERFORMANCE IN A MUSIC ENSEMBLE IS A GROUP EFFORT. Members are required to

shift from an “I/me” reasoning to a “we/us” concept. This means extending oneself beyond the normal

consideration of much of our day to day living. Instead of the logic being, “what’s in it for me?” It becomes

“what’s in it for us?” The values of cooperation, correlation, and completion come in to play each

rehearsal and performance.

o MUSIC BUILDS SELF-WORTH. Although we share many similarities with our athletic counterparts,

music is a place for everyone. Rarely is a person serving as an alternate or a substitute. Everyone in the

ensemble is in the “starting lineup”.

o MUSIC IS ONE OF THE FEW ACADEMIC DISCIPLINES THAT REQUIRE THE STUDENT

TO MASTER SKILLS AND APPLY THEM IN PERFORMANCE. In other words, music involves

multiple forms of learning.

Studies by the College Entrance Examination Board show that:

o “New research on intelligence and brain function point in exciting future directions that tie directly to

music, while the continuing use of music as part of the curriculum is clearly associated with both academic

skills and personal characteristics that are highly desirable for school progress and for developing the kind

of well-educated young people we need for the nation’s well being.”

o Students (1993) with experience in music performance scored measurably higher in both the verbal

and math sections of the Standardized Achievement Test (22 points above the mean in Verbal and 18

points above the mean in Math).

o The correlation between cognitive learning and musical understanding continues to prove they are linked,

and improving one will develop the other. In fact, music is suspected to be the key for unlocking

the scientific mind.

TEXAS ASSESSMENT OF KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS Parents and students can refer to the following web address to read the state curriculum for high school choral

music:

http://ritter.tea.state.tx.us/rules/tac/chapter117/ch117c.html#117.60

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ROWLETT CHORAL ENSEMBLES Students involved in the Rowlett Choir program have the opportunity to participate in a variety

of ensembles:

WOMEN’S CHOIR– Non-auditioned group for all women, grades 9-12. This non-varsity ensemble

places special emphasis on the basics of choral singing, including music literacy, building sight-reading skills,

solfege, and rhythm, as well as introducing the student to literature and performance opportunities.

MEN’S CHORUS – Non-auditioned group for all men, grades 9-12. This non-varsity ensemble places

special emphasis on the basics of choral singing, including music literacy, building sight-reading skills,

solfege, and rhythm, as well as introducing the student to literature and performance opportunities.

CHORALE – Auditioned mixed group. Membership is open to all students in grades 9-12 through an

audition in the spring of the previous year, or through the approval of the Director of Choirs. This group

explores and performs SAB and SATB music and advanced repertoire in all styles and time periods. There

is also a continued emphasis on sight-reading, solfege, and rhythm skills. Chorale will participate in UIL

music contests.

A CAPPELLA CHOIR – This is the varsity choral ensemble at Rowlett High School. Membership is

open to all students in grades 9-12 through an audition in the spring of the previous year, or through the

approval of the Director of Choirs. This group explores and performs four-part music and advanced

repertoire in all styles and time periods. There is also a continued emphasis on sight-reading, solfege, and

rhythm skills. This ensemble participates in all UIL music contests.

CHAMBER SINGERS – This ensemble is a mixed voice ensemble. Members are required to audition

in the previous spring. Literature performed encompasses a wide range of vocal styles and periods and is

mostly sung a cappella. The Chamber Singers will perform for many events outside of the school, and

along with R.S.V.P., will serve as an ambassador to the community

R.S.V.P. – This ensemble is a mixed vocal jazz/pop ensemble. Members are required to audition in the

previous spring. Students in this ensemble display the highest levels of musicianship in sight-reading,

improvisation, and showmanship.

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ROWLETT CHORAL STAFF

KAREN LEWIS is the Director of Choirs at Rowlett High School. A native of Hopkinsville,

Kentucky, she holds a Bachelors of Music Education - Voice Concentration from Belmont University

where she completed a Bachelors of Music Education - Voice Concentration and a Masters of Music in

both Music Education and Vocal Performance from Southern Methodist University.

Mrs. Lewis's teaching experience encompasses the Garland schools of Webb Middle School, North

Garland High School, Schrade Middle School, and the Richardson ISD - Lake Highlands Freshman

Center, where her choirs are known for numerous awards at both U.I.L. and various national festivals.

She is a member of Texas Music Educators Association in which she currently serves as Region III

Secretary, Texas Choral Directors Association, Sigma Alpha Iota, and Pi Kappa Lambda.

Mrs. Lewis and her husband Brad reside in Sachse with their precious Shih-Tzu, Samson.

EVAN RAMOS is in his 5th year as the Associate Choir Director at Rowlett High School. He holds a

Bachelors of Music – Choral Studies from the University of North Texas. He was previously the

Assistant Choir director at Rice Middle School and Jasper High School, and before that at Schimelpfenig

Middle School and Haggard Middle School, all in the Plano ISD. His choirs have consistently earned

sweepstakes at U.I.L. and have been recognized at various national festivals.

Mr. Ramos is a member of ASCAP, TCDA, TMEA, Phi Kappa Lambda and Phi Kappa Phi. An avid

composer, his choral music has been performed at conventions, colleges, and high schools around the

United States. He is also active in the DFW theatre community as an actor/music director. He and his

wife Sarah have one daughter, Aletheia.

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VOICE INSTRUCTORS

KRISTEN ABAQUIN SMITH received her Bachelor's degree cum laude in vocal music

performance with a minor from the college of theater and dance at Texas Tech University. She then

received her Master's of Music degree with high academic honors at the prestigious New England Conservatory, also in classical voice performance.

Although her specialty is opera, Kristen is passionate about all forms of the performing arts. She

recognizes and promotes the importance of sincere communication, whether the vehicle is dance,

music, or speech. Kristen is fortunate to have experienced many aspects of the theater and performing.

She has taught private lessons in piano and voice, as well as within the classroom setting teaching music

theater and music theory. Behind the scenes, she's had the pleasure of holding positions in directing,

stage management, and costuming. Additionally, while living in the Northeast, Kristen served as audition

accompanist with the Manhattan Theatre Mission, an Off-Broadway company in New York City.

Kristen's acting roles span a wide range, of which includes Ernestine in Offenbach's Monsieur Choufleuri

restera chez lui le, Papagena in Mozart's Die Zauberflöte, Connie in A Chorus Line, Amy

in Sondheim's Company, and L'il Bit in Vogel's How I Learned to Drive. Matthew Guerrieri of the Boston

Globe wrote of her "sharp bubbliness" in reference to her "thespian initiative." While living in Boston, Kristen sang professionally with Boston Metro Opera.

Kristen truly believes that the best teacher provides lessons that last a lifetime. She strives to provide

her students with the tools that will best equip them to pursue dreams and flourish both in and out of

the classroom. She says that the most rewarding part about teaching is when she sees her student's eyes

light up because they are able to recognize how truly special and talented they are. Kristen maintains a private piano and voice studio in Rockwall, Texas.

CODY DRY A native to Dallas, Cody Dry has been teaching voice in the area for five years. He

attended Indiana University to study vocal performance for three years, but found that teaching was his

calling. He then finished a Music Education degree from the University of North Texas. Cody has taught

in Garland, Plano, and Rockwall school districts, and will be joining the musical theatre faculty at KD

College this year. Cody has performed with local groups such as Orpheus Chamber Singers, Dallas and

Denton Bach Societies, and New World Voices. He has held section leader positions at several churches

in the area. He has also been a part of many musical productions, both on stage and in the pit. Cody

accompanies choir concerts, voice lessons, competitions, and musicals when he’s not teaching. In his

precious spare time, Cody practices yoga and meditation.

MEGAN WILLIAMS has been a private vocal instructor for 5 years. She has a Bachelor of Arts

degree in Vocal Music from Ouachita Baptist University in Arkansas. She studied voice for 12 years

under the instruction of Darla Barrow and Glenda Secrest. Megan was recently a choir director for

three years at Coyle Middle School. She is also a 2003 graduate from Rowlett High School where she

was an active member in the choir program and a member of RSVP. Megan is excited to be teaching voice at Rowlett this year!

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STUDENT EXPECTATIONS

The Choirs at Rowlett High School are known not only for their excellence in the concert

setting but also for the exceptional quality of the choir students in other aspects of their

academic and extra-curricular pursuits. High standards result in students who achieve success.

Choir students should be prepared to meet and even exceed the following expectations:

ATTITUDE: Come to each rehearsal with a positive attitude about working hard. You

are expected to arrive in class on time wanting to sing and eager to tackle the task at

hand . . . MAKING MUSIC. Remember, “There is no I in TEAM”, and we are a

TEAM!

Choir students are expected to represent RHS choirs in a positive, mature manner—being the

biggest advocate for choral music, your directors, and your performances.

DEADLINES: Turn in ALL items on time. Develop this life skill by keeping yourself informed

of all dates, concerts, trips, and events. Resolve conflicts before they arise and communicate

with the director ASAP.

TARDIES: Be on time, prepared and seated in the choir hall prior to the tardy bell. Hall

sweep is the consequence of your failure to arrive promptly. Place all book bags in the assigned

area.

USE OF CLASS TIME: Use the restroom prior to rehearsals. No cell phones allowed as

per RHS policy.

CHOIR FOLDERS: Your choir folder and the music you are given serve as the textbook for

choir. Students are responsible for paying the replacement cost for any music that is lost or

damaged.

PENCILS: You are required to keep a sharp pencil in your folder at all times.

TIDINESS: Choir students are responsible for putting folders away at the end of rehearsal. A

25 cent “pick-up fee” will be assessed to any student who does not put their folder away

properly in its’ assigned slot. The money collected for “pick-up fees” will be used to purchase

Kleenex for the choral department. If 25 cents is not available, a student will be given their

choir folder after arranging 15 minutes of after-school music library duty.

BEHAVIOR: Choir students are expected to follow all rules of personal conduct as set

forth by Rowlett High School and the GISD school board. Consistent failure to meet behavioral

expectations will result in removal from the program. Choir department students are expected

to be DRUG FREE and GOOD EXAMPLES OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL: no smoking or drinking

on personal time. Students who make poor life-choices jeopardize their participation in RHS

choir ensembles.

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PERFORMANCE & REHEARSAL EXPECTATIONS

STAY INFORMED: It is your responsibility to keep informed of all dates for extra

rehearsals and performances. The choir directors have made every effort to keep extra

rehearsals to a minimum and to schedule performances around the major dates on the Rowlett

High School calendar for the year. The choir calendar is part of this handbook, is available in the

choir room and can be viewed on-line at www.charmsoffice.com (login is rowletthschoir;

password is your 6-digit student ID) as well as on SKYWARD parent/student viewer..

PERFORMANCE ATTENDANCE: ALL STUDENT PERFORMANCES ARE A

MANDATORY ELEMENT OF THE CHOIR CURRICULUM. Every choir student will

perform. Your grade will reflect your participation both during rehearsals and at performances.

Every member of a performing ensemble is vital to the ensemble as a whole. Never think

otherwise. Failure to meet performance criteria could result in removal from the choral

department.

Choral students will also be graded on their performance behavior. The following expectations

are required for all performances:

Be seated or standing in place for the concert at the stated time.

Wear the correct uniform that is required for the performance.

Promptly check out and return uniforms/uniform parts within the required time periods.

Watch the director at all times.

DO NOT TALK ON STAGE.

DO NOT DRAW ATTENTION TO YOURSELF.

No gum or cell phones.

Move between the stage and seating areas in quiet, single file lines based on riser position and

row. MOVE WITH PURPOSE.

Always act in a professional manner. If you must question something you are about to do, then

do not do it.

REHEARSAL ATTENDANCE: Rehearsals held outside of class time are also a mandatory

part of the curriculum. Failure to attend these rehearsals not only jeopardizes your grade but

our chance to achieve success as a choir.

COMMUNICATE CONFLICTS: Conflicts with the posted choir calendar must be

communicated by a written note from your parent or guardian to your director 24 hours

before the performance or rehearsal.

ABSENCES: A student’s absence from a required choir activity may be considered excused

on a case-by-case basis provided that the student initiates communication with the appropriate

director. A Remediation Project will be assigned by the director in the event of an absence.

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DIRECTOR EXPECTATIONS

The Choral Directors at Rowlett High School will commit to the following:

Announce calendar dates for choir activities at least one month in advance.

Provide an environment that allows students to enhance music skills in sight-reading

performance, and appreciation of choral music through scholarly study.

Make arrangements and plan stimulating rehearsal and performance experiences.

Post grades weekly, using the GISD online grade book.

Arrange fundraising activities to assist students with choir financial obligations.

Make every effort to build qualities of self-discipline, appreciation, confidence, and

responsibility in each student.

Approach every class period with a positive and nurturing attitude.

A CAPPELLA AFTER-SCHOOL REHEARSALS

Students participating in A Cappella choir will be required to attend after-school rehearsals.

These are outlined in the choir calendar and will be on either Mondays or Tuesdays.

These rehearsals are not optional. Students are responsible for giving 24 hour advance written

notice to the director if a rehearsal must be missed.

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USE OF FINE ARTS FACILITIES AND EQUIPMENT

CARE OF CHOIR ROOM: We need to make the care and maintenance of our choir room,

its’ auxiliary rooms and the auditorium a daily priority. Please remember, the only drink

allowed in the choir rehearsal is water. There is also to be no food or gum.

CD PLAYERS: These are only used for rehearsal purposes or for specific listening work once

the director’s permission has been attained. It is the responsibility of the students to make sure

that the equipment used is returned to the proper location.

PIANOS: NO STUDENTS ARE ALLOWED TO PLAY ANY OF THE CHOIR PIANOS

without obtaining prior director permission.

CHOIR OFFICE: Please be respectful of this space and ask permission & knock before

entering.

PHONE: If the choir office phone is not in use and is not an inconvenience, you may use the

phone with director’s permission.

CHOIR COMMUNICATION

A successful choir program is built upon a solid foundation of timely, accurate communication

between students, their families and the choir directors. To communicate effectively, we need

to have the most accurate and up-to-date contact information for each student. Please

take a moment to check your information in our choir database website sponsored

by Charms:

Web Address: www.charmsoffice.com

Login: Rowletthschoir

Password: student’s 6 digit ID number

From this website you can check the choir calendar, send an email to a director and update

your own personal information.

We will also post grades, concerts and extra rehearsals on the district’s new SKYWARD

parent/student viewer.

Thank you for helping us stay in touch.

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GRADING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES High grading standards will be maintained in all choir classes. There will be some written work in the form of

exams and daily assignments. Additionally, there will be sight-singing exams/singing tests, after-school rehearsals

and concert attendance grades and daily overall skill demonstration grades. Since choir is a performance-based

class, great importance is placed on the efforts and team work necessary to produce a quality choral experience.

Remember: TODAY’S PREPARATION DETERMINES TOMORROW’S ACHIEVEMENT. In choir, we

want everyone to feel a part of the team and share in the rewarding feeling that comes from practicing and

performing well together.

ELIGIBILITY: Each student is expected to pass all classes in order to participate in all extra-

curricular choir activities such as All-Region auditions, Solo and Ensemble contest, dinner show

acts, school musical, UIL contest, pop show, madrigal festival, and our many outings and field

trips in the community. Students who fail to pass their classes for the six weeks will still

participate in regular choir concerts.

GRADING PROCEDURE: Grades in the RHS Choral Department will be averaged

according to the following formula:

WEEKLY PARTICIPATION GRADE: 40%

This grade is determined by the student’s level of engagement during class, including on-task

behavior, posture, maintaining necessary materials and singing participation.

CONCERT AND EXTRA REHEARSAL ATTENDANCE: 30%

This grade is based on successful attendance and behavior at all concerts and extra

rehearsals. It is very difficult to make a passing grade in choir with poor attendance.

ASSIGNMENTS, QUIZZES AND TESTS: 30%

This grading category includes oral sight-singing exams, written theory quizzes and other

types of written work, including the ability to meet all deadlines and turn in required

paperwork.

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OTHER PERFORMANCE OPPORTUNITIES

The following opportunities will be offered to all RHS choral students:

PRIVATE VOICE LESSONS - Voice lessons are offered as a supplement to

classroom instruction. These lessons are designed to utilize characteristic vocal

literature rather than providing a venue for rehearsing music that the student will be

performing with the entire group. Participation in these lessons is optional, although all

choir members are encouraged to take advantage of the opportunity to further develop

their vocal skills. Lessons are generally taught within the scope of the school day;

students and teachers work together to optimize the lesson schedule. The cost is $17

per lesson, payable to the individual teacher in advance on a monthly basis ($68/mon.)

Lesson information will be distributed in classes by our RHS voice instructors; Mr. Dry,

Mrs. Smith, and Mrs. Williams

UIL SOLO & ENSEMBLE CONTEST, February 21st – All students participating

in private voice lessons are required to participate in this event. Students will prepare

and memorize a solo off of the UIL Prescribed Music List to be performed for a judge.

The judge will give the student a rating of I-V, with I being the highest score. All

participating students will pay their own entry and accompanist fee ($35) prior to

Winter Break in December.

ALL-REGION CHOIR/ALL-STATE CHOIR – Auditions are through the fall for

the TMEA Region 3 Choir. Any RHS student wishing to participate must individually

learn the required music selections and prepare for a mock audition in front of the

directors to certify their readiness to proceed in the all-region process. Qualifying

students will then compete in an official series of blind auditions before a panel of

judges. From these auditions, students with the best scores continue to participate in

the Region 3 Choir and may have the opportunity to audition for the Texas All-State

Choir. Audition fee is $16, and music packets will need to be purchased.

ANNUAL SPRING DINNER SHOW – The RHS Booster Club sponsors the Spring

Dinner Show each May. All choirs will participate in the group numbers for this

production, and auditions will be held for solos.

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2014-15 ROWLETT HIGH SCHOOL DRESS CODE

and GROOMING POLICY for clubs, organizations, teams, student

groups, extracurricular programs, etc.

The staff of Rowlett High School supports all students in their participation in organizations

outside the classroom. Because participation in such activities is a privilege, certain higher

standards are in place. Students not only represent themselves and their school when

participating, they are respected by the student body and community for their dedication to

their endeavors. The following in no way represents the complete guidelines for any

organization. This document only details dress and grooming policies. Students and parents

should contact their coach or sponsor for more details and/or clarifications.

All students while representing Rowlett High School in any way outside of their regular class

schedule will adhere to the following:

Students will only wear shorts (both boys and girls) if it is part of their official uniform or dress as designated by their sponsor or deemed necessary during certain activities by

coach or sponsor with prior written approval by building principal.

Male students will be clean shaven and will not wear any style of earrings.

No insignias or designs will be allowed in hair.

No full mohawks will be allowed.

All policies listed in the Garland Independent School District’s Student Handbook not

pertaining to issues listed above will be followed.

Examples where above policies will be in effect are listed below. Other activities may be

deemed necessary for this policy by coach, sponsor or school administration.

Participation in contests

Performances

Travel

Restaurant

Photography or video taking place

Display of photography or video

Awards banquets

Any time wearing article of clothing depicting participation in organization or

extracurricular activity.

All final decisions will rest with the building principal.

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UNIFORMS

Choir uniforms will be issued to each student in September and will be turned in at the end of

the school year. Girls will receive a choir dress and guys will receive a pair of tux pants and a

tux jacket. All choir members are expected to be in full uniform from the time that you arrive

for a performance until the time you leave the performance site (men, this means that we

expect you to keep your shirt tucked in, your tie and cummerbund in place). Take pride in our

organization by dressing the part.

LADIES: Please wear BLACK, CLOSE-TOED, DRESS SHOES (low heels preferred), with

your choir dress. The only acceptable jewelry is small, discreet earrings; no large earrings and

no bracelets, watches or necklaces of any kind (remember that we are going for a “uniform”

look).

MEN: You will need to provide BLACK DRESS SHOES (no variations please), and BLACK

SOCKS. You will also need to purchase a $16 - TUX SHIRT WITH A WING-TIP COLLAR.

(A representative from AL’s Formal Wear will measure for shirts during the choir class period

on Friday, Sept. 5.

REPLACING LOST OR DAMAGED UNIFORM: In case of uniform loss or damage,

please refer to the replacement costs listed below.

Ladies formal dress: $90.00 Tux pants: $50.00 Tux jacket: $100.00 Bowtie/Cummerbund:

$15

DO NOT MAKE ANY PERMANENT ALTERATIONS TO YOUR UNIFORM

UNLESS APPROVAL IS OBTAINED BY THE DIRECTOR OF THE CHOIR.

AWARD JACKETS

In the spring of 2008, the GISD Fine Arts Department implemented a program that allows a

student involved in a choir the ability to accumulate points towards an award jacket. Once a

student accumulates the needed 90 points, they will be given a date for the next available fitting,

and GISD will pay for the jacket. However, it is up to the student and their family to pay for all

lettering, patches, and alterations to be made for the jacket. While every effort is made to stay

up-to-date using CHARMS on each student’s points, it is ultimately up to the student to keep

track of these points by using the “GISD Application for High School Choir Award Jacket.” This

form is located on CHARMS or from a choir director.

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PARENT VOLUNTEERS

Parent volunteers are always welcomed! If you are interested in chaperoning, working with

uniforms, serving at dinner shows, or generally helping out, we appreciate it!

In order to volunteer for any overnight events, please fill out the GISD Volunteer

Application Form and Background Check Form found at the back of this handbook

(pages 20 and 21). These forms, plus a copy of a valid US ID (Driver’s License, Passport) are

due to the choir office by September 5th!

RHS CHOIR BOOSTER CLUB

All choir parents are encouraged to take an active role in their student’s choir experience by

joining the RHS Choir Booster Club! The Booster Club exists to further the development and

promote the activities of the RHS choirs. Members provide support for all of the RHS choirs in

many different capacities throughout the year. If you are interested in joining the RHS Choir

Booster Club, membership forms are available on the Charms website, as well as in

the choir office.

Booster Club meetings will be held in the Choir Room:

Sept. 9, 6:45-7:45pm

Oct. 14, 6:45-7:45pm

Nov. 6, 6:45-7:45pm

Dec. 9, 6:45-7:45pm

Jan. 13, 6:45-7:45pm

Feb. 5, 6:45-7:45pm

Mar. 17, 6:45-7:45pm

Apr. 21, 6:45-7:45pm

May 12, 6:45-7:45pm

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FINANCIAL POLICY

NO STUDENT WILL BE DENIED PARTICIPATION IN THE RHS CHORAL

PROGRAM. Please speak with Mrs. Lewis so that arrangements can be made for

consideration of needed assistance.

Families have the option of post-dating checks in order to pay for their choir fees in the fall. All

fees must be paid by Friday, Sept. 5th, 2014.

CHOIR ACTIVITY FEES

All choir students pay a Choir Activity Fee by Friday, Sept. 5th as outlined below:

Women’s Choir A and B: $40

Men’s Choir: $40

Chorale: $40

A Cappella Choir: $75

which includes:

Uniform Rental fee

Uniform Cleaning fee

Choir T-shirt

Field Trip buses

Music Binder

NOTE: Ensembles of R.S.V.P. and Chamber Singers will incur additional costs for uniforms and

trips.

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DEPOSITING MONEY

Every family has the option of paying cash, credit/debit (via our Paypal account), check or

money order for any expenses that are due to the Rowlett High School Choral Program. ALL

CHECKS SHOULD BE MADE PAYABLE TO ROWLETT HIGH SCHOOL

CHOIRS.

CASH/CHECK PAYMENTS

Each check should contain the following in the memo line: Student’s Full Name and Student’s ID

number.

All payments should be placed in a sealed envelope with the student’s name, ID, and

purpose (i.e. Choir fees, Trip payment, Fundraising money, etc.) on it and then placed in the

safe located outside the choir director’s office. These envelopes are available in the office next

to the safe.

DO NOT GIVE THE MONEY TO YOUR DIRECTOR AND DO NOT PLACE

LOOSE MONEY IN THE SAFE WITHOUT YOUR NAME OR THE PURPOSE ON

AN ENVELOPE.

John Smith or Mary Smith 1001

4700 Kirby Rd.

Rowlett, TX 75088

Pay to the order of:__Rowlett High School Choirs $50.00

Fifty dollars and no/00------------------------------------------------------------ Dollars

American Nat’l Bank

5320 Lakeview Parkway

Rowlett, TX 75088

Memo: Choir student’s Name Mary Smith

Choir Student’s ID

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CREDIT/DEBIT PAYMENTS

RHS Choir members are now able to make choir related payments online via the RHS

Choir Paypal account. Here is how you can make a payment via Paypal.

1. Log in to www.charmsoffice.com (please reference the “How to log in to

Charms” Handout)

2. Once you have entered your student’s personal area, find and click on the green

“Finances” button.

3. Under “Student Fixed Payment Detail”, locate the fee(s) you would like to pay

with your credit/debit card and slide the “Paid by” button next to the charge to

the left (it should turn blue).

4. Click the “Pay Fixed Payments” button.

5. You will see a summary of your payment. Hit the green “Start Payment” button.

6. You will then be taken to our Paypal account website where you can pay you fee

as you normally would on Paypal.

THERE WILL BE A 3% PAYPAL PROCESSING FEE FOR CREDIT/DEBIT

TRANSACTIONS.

FUNDRAISING

Students are encouraged to participate in the fundraising efforts of the choir department and

the parent booster club organization throughout the year. The choir department’s philosophy

is that fundraising should be kept to a minimum, but that when we do a fundraiser, we strive for

maximum involvement and return on our effort.

GISD MUSIC ENRICHMENT PROGRAM

Voice lessons are offered as a supplement to classroom instruction. These lessons are designed

to utilize characteristic vocal literature rather than providing a venue for rehearsing music that

the student will be performing with the entire group. Participation in these lessons is optional,

although all choir members are encouraged to take advantage of the opportunity to further

develop their vocal skills. Lessons are generally taught within the scope of the school day;

students and teachers work together to optimize the lesson schedule. The cost is $17 per

lesson, payable to the individual teacher in advance on a monthly basis ($68/mon.) Lesson

information will be distributed in classes by our RHS voice instructors, Cody Dry, Kristen

Abaquin Smith, and Megan Williams.

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RHS Choir Handbook Acknowledgement Form

Please sign and return by Friday, September 5th, 2014

Sponsors and coaches of extracurricular activities, including athletics, choir and marching band

may develop and enforce standards of behavior that are higher than the District-developed

student code of conduct and may condition membership or participation in the activity on

adherence to those standards of behavior. They may also take into consideration conduct that

occurs at any time, on or off school property. No provision of an extracurricular behavioral

standard shall have the effect of discriminating on the basis of sex, race, disability, religion or

ethnicity.

Please check next to the appropriate statement.

___I have read the 2014-15 choir handbook and understand the rules, guidelines and fees

concerning my participation as a singer in the Rowlett High School Choral Department and am

willing to comply with any and all requirements.

PRINT student name below:

___________________________________________________

_________________________________________ ___________

Student Signature Date

PRINT parent/legal guardian name below:

_____________________________________________________

_________________________________________ ____________

Parent/Legal Guardian Signature Date

________________________________________________________

Parent Email Address

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