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JOHNSBURG HIGH SCHOOL CHORAL HANDBOOK

2015-2016

Mr. Michael Claver. Director of Choirs. mclaver@johnsburg12.org.815-900-3229.

2002 W. Ringwood Road Johnsburg, IL 60051

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Table of Contents

Contact Information.............................................................................1 Table of Contents.................................................................................2 Welcome Letter...................................................................................3 Mission Statement Program Objectives Curricular Opportunities........................................................................4 Curricular Opportunities Cont’d……..........................................................5 Extra-Curricular Opportunities……...........................................................6 Grading..............................................................................................7 Concert Procedures Concert Attire......................................................................................8 JHS Activity Conflict.............................................................................9 Classroom Expectations Classroom Rules and Procedures……………………………………………………………………10 Classroom Materials Recruitment......................................................................................11 Music Boosters Invitation....................................................................12 2015-2016 Choral Calendar.................................................................13 Goal Worksheet.................................................................................14 JHS Choral Handbook and Information Page..........................................15

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Dear Students, Parents and Guardians, Welcome to an exciting year of choir. My name is Mr. Michael Claver, and I am ecstatic to join the Singing Skyhawk Family! As a native of Fox Lake, I look forward to serving my “home” community! Due to regular change, the choral community here at JHS has suffered a lack of consistent community development. Therefore, I look forward to the opportunity to grow, build, create, and establish who we are as a special community within the walls of JHS. Undoubtedly, this year will include certain and challenging growth. From four curricular choral concerts, to Trills and Thrills, and an exciting trip to Florida, students should approach this year with an excited heart, and a mind ready to work and grow. In the following pages, one will discover what is expected from an individual within the choral department. All procedures, performance opportunities, and informative details are clearly outlined for easy access. I look forward to starting this crazy, exciting, challenging and rewarding journey with you all. I am positive that when all forces unite under the choral art, we will soon experience positive change that will impact us for the rest of our lives. Welcome to the Family! Best, Mr. Michael Claver

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Mission Statement The Johnsburg High School Choral Program aims to develop skills that contribute to lifelong musicianship, foster authentic and quality artistic expression, and grow respect and responsibility for self, others, community, and the world in each of its participants

Program Objectives • Improve the functional understanding of one’s own vocal instrument.

Additionally, the function of the individual voice within an ensemble • Improve one’s literacy in music, including intervallic understandings,

music reading, understanding of vocabulary and symbols. • Improve one’s artistic understanding.

o Discussing music with correct vocabulary. Interpreting sounds and text in a thoughtful manner.

o Training one’s ear to discern correct and incorrect acquisition of performance

o Create both compositions and musical experience that encourage certain growth and refinement.

• Understanding one’s role in a community, and how to further contribute to the betterment of the whole.

• Engaging in a variety of performance opportunities that expand each individual’s horizon.

Curricular Opportunities

Mixed Choir (Formerly Concert Choir) This two-semester course is a performing ensemble open to any who wish to join. No audition is necessary. Instruction will focus on basic understandings of the vocal mechanism, both as an individual and within the function of the ensemble. This ensemble will also focus on basic techniques for developing music literacy. Additionally, students will sing a variety of styles of choral music. Members perform in several required concerts outside of class and may also be required to perform at other events such as organizational contest, sporting events, graduation, ect. Additional performance includes Solo/Ensemble Contest, Conference Music Festivals, ILMEA District and State events, and the JHS Madrigal Ensemble. 1 year of Beginning Mixed Choir (or

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the director’s permission in certain circumstances) is required to move on to another choral ensemble at JHS. Treble Choir This two-semester course is a performing ensemble open by audition to any sophomore, junior, and senior that has completed one year or more of Mixed Choir (formerly Concert Choir) or Treble Choir. Instruction will focus on developing understandings and techniques of the vocal mechanism, both as an individual and within the function of an ensemble. This group also continues to develop techniques and acquisition of music literacy. Additionally, this group will perform various styles of choral music. Members perform in several required concerts outside of class and may also be required to perform at other events such as organizational contest, sporting events, graduation, ect. Additional performance opportunities include Solo/Ensemble Contest, Conference Music Festivals, ILMEA District and State events, and the JHS Madrigal Ensemble. Varsity Choir This two-semester course is a performing ensemble open by audition to any sophomore, junior, and senior that has completed one year or more of Mixed Choir (formerly Concert Choir) or Treble Choir. Understandings and techniques of the vocal mechanism, both as an individual and within the function of an ensemble are a large focus for this ensemble. This group also continues to develop techniques and acquisition of music literacy. Additionally, this group will perform various styles of choral music. Members perform in several required concerts outside of class and may also be required to perform at other events such as organizational contest, sporting events, graduation, ect. Additional performance opportunities include Solo/Ensemble Contest, Conference Music Festivals, ILMEA District and State events, and the JHS Madrigal Ensemble.

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Extra-Curricular Opportunities

Auditions for ILMEA District 7 Festival Students in 10th-12th grade will be invited to audition for the ILMEA District 7 Honor Festival. Students must prepare a variety of specified pieces of literature, numerous skills (scales and triads), and will be asked to perform two specific sightreading examples. Multiple rehearsals will be held before school, prior to the audition. Mr. Claver is also available upon appointment to assist with preparatory efforts. Theses auditions also serve as entry into the All-State Chorus and All-State Honor Chorus. All-State opportunities are only available to Juniors and Seniors. IHSA Solo and Ensemble All students are invited to participate in the IHSA Solo and Ensemble Competition. Those performing solo pieces MUST have their pieces approved by Mr. Claver BY January 20, 2016. If a student wishes to perform a solo work but is not in private voice lessons, they must meet with Mr. Claver for a minimum of two, 20-minute voice lessons. These can be served before or after school, or one of Mr. Claver’s free periods. Madrigal Choir All students are invited to audition for the JHS Madrigal Ensemble. Annually, this premier ensemble performs in the JHS Madrigal Dinner, as well as various community events. This group features traditional renaissance music, as well as small chamber works from various choral styles. Winter Musical Brush up on your vocab words, because it is time to spell! All are invited to audition for the JHS production of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. Students interested should look for more information in the following months!

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Grading Daily Participation - 35% Students are expected to follow all classroom rules and procedures. Participation in a choral ensemble provides individuals with multiple unique opportunities. One specific intricacy is the ability to mesh multiple musical ideas into one cohesive experience. Therefore, students must be present both physically and mentally. Active participation, preparation, and attention are required from each student. Each student will receive a total of 5 points daily; any deviation from the rules will result in a loss of 1 point. Quizzes & Tests - 20% Each Quarter, there will be three quizzes. These quizzes will include individual assessment of vocal and artistic progress on provided choral repertoire, an individual assessment of a sight reading activity, and a group sight reading activity. Rubrics will be provided one week before the assessment. Weekly Journal - 10% At the start of each class, there will be a question written on the board. Each student must choose one of the five prompts and provide a one-page journal entry, which will be turned in at the beginning of class, each “Friday.” Concert Participation - 25% Performance learning is an integral part to the developing musician. Therefore, all concert performances are required. For those participating in multiple activities, please see Student Activity Conflict. For those unable to attend a concert, see Concert Procedures. Semester Final - 10% Each semester final will include a prepared selection, one sight-reading activity, and two scales. The first semester final will serve as the students’ choral audition for the follow academic year. Further information will be provided prior to the Kaleidoscope Concert and Spring Choral Concert.

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Concert Procedures In order to participate in concerts, students must be present at least one half of the school day, in accordance with JHS policy. If a student cannot attend a concert, their absence is characterized as excused or unexcused. The following reasons may qualify an excused absence

• Illness • Observance of a religious holiday or ceremony • Death in the immediate family • Family Emergency • Other Situations beyond the control of the student

If a student knows they will be absent from a concert, the student should follow the procedures described in Student Activity Conflict. If a student encounters emergency, the student or parent/guardian, must contact Mr. Claver via email or telephone before the start of a concert. Once the student returns class, they must meet with Mr. Claver to create a plan to supplement the missed concert points. The following reasons may qualify an unexcused absence

• Work • Other JHS activities (unless pre-approved by Mr. Claver) • Lack of Transportation • You “forgot.” • Etc, etc, etc.

*If the student is unexcused from the concert and does not perform, the lost points may NOT be supplemented. Students should plan on arriving 2 hours before the initiation of a concert, unless otherwise directed by Mr. Claver. Students are expected to arrive promptly at the give call time. Therefore, for every minute the student is late, they will lose the equal amount of points.

Concert Attire JHS has the honor to perform in high quality choral robes. However, students need to adhere to the following clothing guidelines: Black Slacks or Skirt (if a student chooses to wear a skirt, it must be paired with black tights) Black Dress Socks or Knee Highs

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Black Dress Shoes, Flats, or Heels (may not exceed 2 inches). A Solid-Colored Dress Shirt/Blouse Please Note; all attire must follow the guidelines found in the Johnsburg HS Student Handbook.

JHS Student Activity Conflict JHS encourages students to explore their varied interests. Because of this, students may encounter conflicts with extra-curricular activities. In these situations, students must communicate any potential calendar conflicts with Mr. Claver as soon as possible. Students must send Mr. Claver an e-mail explaining the potential conflict a minimum of 2 weeks before the scheduled event. If a student does not properly communicate the issue with all involved parties, they will receive an unexcused absence for the event. In these situations, Mr. Claver, the student, and the addition coach, sponsor, teacher, etc, will create a “fair and flexible” plan that allows the most affective experience for the student.

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Classroom Expectations Because of the nature of a choral community, students should come to rehearsal prepared, attentive and eager to participate. Through participation in the JHS Choral Program, students will learn to assert themselves as individuals while maintaining group vision. Therefore, students are expected to explore, create, and actively participate in the choral process. Additionally, they must grow to respect the individual creative process of others.

Classroom Rules and Procedures 1. Students will enter the classroom, and place belongings at the front of

the classroom. 2. Students will retrieve their choir folder from the cabinet, and take care

of any pre-class business (i.e. Using the Washroom, Filling a Water Bottle, Turning in Assignments.

3. When the bell rings, Students should be in their seats, prepared to begin rehearsal.

4. Students should begin immediately start writing the daily question in their journal.

5. Students shall come to class with all materials listed below, every day. 6. Throughout the rehearsal, whenever a student is singing, they must be

standing. 7. Consumption of food, beverage, or gum during the rehearsal is

prohibited. 8. Students will treat themselves, each other, and the environment with

respect. 9. Classroom disruptions, including excessive talking, unauthorized use of

cellphones, and disrespectful behavior will not be tolerated 10. Students shall actively participate in the class experience. Students

should come ready to sing, discuss, and explore the musical process 11. Students shall only mark in their music using pencil, as they will have

to return music after the concert series. 12. Students shall come to class ready to work. We can only grow through

dedication to work, and a goal of improvement.

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Classroom Materials 1. Choir Folder, with given repertoire. All students are responsible for

music distributed, and should only mark in pencil. 2. Pencil(s) :D 3. Sightreading Book 4. Journal 5. A water bottle, if desired. 6. A POSITIVE ATTITUDE

Recruitment In order to maintain and grow a community, all must adapt a recruitment mindset (#joinchoir). Choir is a unique experience, and it is our job to share this experience with the JHS community (#joinchoir). In an effort to reach those students who have parted with the choral experience, we will create a Recruitment Committee. This group is open to any individual who wishes to actively create opportunities to encourage the growth of our choral program. This group will meet twice a month and will be responsible for the following: -Brainstorm why people should #joinchoir -Create, Plan, and Execute quarterly “recruitment events” -Act as Choral Diplomats within the walls of JHS. Meetings will be held the 1st and 3rd Monday of each month, at 7am.

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2015-2016 Choral Calendar

(All Bold events are Mandatory)

Sept 14 Music Boosters, JHS, 7PM Sept 22 Combined Choir Rehearsal, JHS Choir Room, 7-9PM Sept. 23 All-District Choral, JHS Auditorium, 7 PM Oct. 5 ILMEA District 7 Choir Auditions, Libertyville HS, 4PM Oct. 5 Music Boosters Meeting, JHS, 7PM Oct. 24 Barbershop Festival of Stars, Grant Community HS, All Day Oct. 29-31 JHS Fall Play, JHS Nov. 5 Music Boosters, JHS, 7PM Nov. 7 ILMEA District 7 Festival, Glenbrook North High School Dec.2 Combined Choir Rehearsal, JHS Choir Room, 7-9PM Dec. 3 JHS Kaleidoscope Concert, JHS Auditorium, 7PM Dec. 7 Music Boosters Meeting, JHS, 7pm Dec. 12, 13 Madrigal Dinner, JHS, TBA Jan. 4 Music Boosters Meeting, JHS, 7PM Jan. 27-30 ILMEA State Music Festival Feb. 12-14, JHS Winter Musical 19,20 March TBA Bowl O’ Arts March 5 IHSA Solo & Ensemble Contest March 16 Masterworks Concert, JHS Auditorium, 7PM March 28th - April 3 JHS Music Department Trip to Orlando Florida April 15-16 IHSA Choral Organizational Contest April 29-30 JHS Spring Play May 16 Senior Choral Concert, JHS 7 PM May 6,7,13,14, Trills and Thrills, JHS, TBA 20,21 June 3 Graduation, JHS, TBA

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Goal Worksheet Student’s Name________________________________________________ In the space provided, please create a one short-term goal you hope to accomplish through participating in the choral program _____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________ In the space provided, please create one long-term goal you hope to accomplish through participating in the choral program _____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________ In the Space Provided, please create on long-term goal for the choral program _____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________ *This is to completed and Turned-In by the end of the school day Friday, August 28th. *

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JHS Choral Handbook and Information Page Student Name_________________________________________________ Student Grade____________ Student Email__________________________ Parent/Guardian Name(s) _____________________________________________________________ Parent/Guardian Email _____________________________________________________________

Acknowledgment of Participation By signing this, you acknowledge and will adhere to the procedures, rules, and guidelines outlined in this handbook. This page is to be filled out in completion and returned to Mr. Claver by the end of the school day on Friday, August 28th. This is a graded assignment and will count towards the student’s Daily Participation grade. Student Signature/Date Signed _____________________________________________________________ Parent/Guardian Signature/Date Signed _____________________________________________________________