Minneapolis South High School Music Department

Minneapolis South High School Music Department Choir Handbook 2014-2015 Name Choir Folder Number 0

Minneapolis South High School Music Department Ms. Laurie Meyers, Choir Director Laurie.Meyers@mpls.k12.mn.us (preferred form of communication) 612.668.8615 (voicemail) Schedule: (I am employed part-time) Period 0: Pop Singers (7:20-8:15AM) Period 1: Women s Choir (8:30-9:25AM) Period 2: Varsity Choir (9:30-10:30AM) Period 3: Concert Choir (10:35-11:30AM) Texting Service: Please sign-up with the web-based service called Remind. You can receive announcements from your teacher via push notifications, SMS text, or email through this service. The service keeps all cell phone numbers anonymous and will not share your phone number with the teacher, other students, or any third parties. Concert Choir: http://remind.com/join/meyerscc Women s Choir: http://remind.com/join/meyerswc Varsity Choir: http://remind.com/join/meyersvc Visiting: You are welcome to visit the classroom at any time in the year. Please schedule an appointment by e-mail at least one day in advance. Communication: Please ensure the school has your most current e-mail address on the Parent Portal. I send out parent e-mails periodically (usually on Fridays), regarding student accomplishments, performances, assignments, deadlines, etc. 1

TABLE OF CONTENTS Course Descriptions p.3 Materials Needed p.4 Grading Policy p.5-7 The Study and Use of Secular and Sacred Music p.8 Class Expectations p.9 Other Considerations p.10 Remind Texting/Email Service Information Sheet p.11 Music Lettering Form p.12-13 Calendar of Performances & Events p.14-15 *Please detach, sign & return (front & back) to Ms. Meyers: Internet & Media Release Form p.16 Student & Parent Statement of Understanding Form p.17 2

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS Concert Choir This mixed ensemble of boys and girls is for any student interested in continuing his/her choral experience beyond middle school. You will learn new techniques with your voice through the rehearsal and performance of varied literature and increase your knowledge of music theory and terminology. This group performs three evening public concerts a year. Prior choral experience is not necessary. No audition is necessary. Entrance is available year-round. Women s Choir This select treble ensemble is for girls interested in continuing an intermediate choral experience. You will learn new techniques with your voice through the rehearsal and performance of varied and intermediate-level literature and increase your knowledge of intermediate music theory and terminology. This group performs at least three evening public concerts a year and sometimes performs in extra concerts both at South and in the larger community. Prior choral experience is preferred. An audition is necessary for admittance, and auditions are available year-round. Varsity Choir This select, mixed ensemble of boys and girls is for the advanced choral student, and is comprised mostly of juniors and seniors. You will learn new techniques with your voice through the rehearsal and performance of varied and increasingly complex literature and increase your knowledge of advanced music theory and terminology. This group performs at least three evening public concerts a year and also performs extra concerts both at South and in the larger community. Prior choral experience is necessary. An audition is necessary for admittance. Pop Singers This small, highly-select, mixed ensemble of boys and girls is for the advanced choral student, and is comprised mostly of juniors and seniors. You will learn new techniques with your voice and train your ear through performance of varied and complex literature, including jazz, blues, and pop. There is a focus on both ensemble sound and solo singing and frequent collaborations with the jazz band. This group performs at least three evening public concerts a year and also performs extra concerts both at South and in the larger community. Prior choral experience is necessary. An audition is necessary for admittance, and auditions are held in September. Students chosen must also be currently enrolled in another performing ensemble at South High School. 3

MATERIALS NEEDED Black 3-ring binder with a hard cover (1/2 ) Office Max or Walgreens has them Pencil (every day!) A desire to be a high school musician and an active, positive, and supportive part of a performing ensemble Concert attire for performances (If you do not meet all the requirements, you may not be allowed on stage to perform, and you will need to complete a make-up assignment for the lost concert points) All Choirs: No flashy jewelry or hair ornaments (small stud earrings are acceptable. No necklaces or bracelets.) Concert Choir: Women s Choir: Varsity Choir: White Shirt (long-sleeved, no visible logos) Boys shirts need collars; shirts need to be tucked in with a black belt Black pants or skirt longer than knees Black socks/nylons/tights (no skin on your feet showing) Black dress shoes (girls heels no higher than 1-inch) Dark Purple Shirt (long-sleeved, no visible logos) Black pants or skirt longer than knees Black socks/nylons/tights (no skin on your feet showing) Black dress shoes (Heels no higher than 1-inch) Black Shirt (long-sleeved, no visible logos) Boys need to purchase an orange bowtie ($5) Boys shirts need collars; shirts need to be tucked in with a black belt Black pants or skirt longer than knees OR black dress (long-sleeved) longer than knees Black socks/nylons/tights (no skin on your feet showing) Black dress shoes (girls heels no higher than 1-inch) Pop Singers: Solid-colored Shirt (long-sleeved, no visible logos) Boys shirts need collars; shirts need to be tucked in with a black belt Black pants or skirt longer than knees Black socks/nylons/tights (no skin on your feet showing) Black dress shoes (girls heels no higher than 1-inch) 4

GRADING POLICY I. Daily Participation 61% II. Performance Participation 21% III. Skills Assessments 10% IV. Other Assignments 8% I. Daily Participation (61% of total grade) All performing music classes at South are cooperative groups, each working toward a final goal: concert performances. Class attendance and participation from all members of the ensemble is needed to properly prepare. Below is the South Music Department s Attendance and Participation Policy. 1. Unexcused absences compromise the integrity and readiness of the ensemble. On the second unexcused absence, the student s Daily Participation Grade will be dropped one grade (i.e.: A to A-). The grade will continue to drop every two unexcused absences after that. Students with chronic attendance problems will be asked to meet with the teacher and may result in a conference with an administrator and/or parents. 2. Tardies are also a part of this policy. The fourth tardy will result in one unexcused absence. After that, every two tardies will result in another unexcused absence. (Once tardies become unexcused absences, your grade will be impacted as outlined above.) Making-up Absences & Tardies Students will be allowed to make up unexcused absences and unexcused tardies by making appointments with the teacher to complete community service work in the band/choir room. One unexcused absence will require 55 minutes of service with the teacher, and each unexcused tardy will require 10 minutes. Tasks may include sorting music, cleaning, stacking chairs, concert set-up/take-down, etc. 5

II. Performance Participation (21% of total grade) Attendance and full participation at concerts is required and is part of the grading criteria for the course. This is a fundamental and integral part of your membership in the ensemble. Performances are a public demonstration of what has been learned in class ( authentic performance assessment of learning ). Each performer in the ensemble is dependent on each member being present to perform his or her part. Because the ensemble is more than just a collection of individual performers, it is necessary that we rehearse and perform as a unified group. A problem with an individual performer s attendance seriously limits our ability to be consistent and strive for excellence. Students with an excused absence from a performance will be assigned a make-up assignment. The make-up assignment is usually due within a week or two of the missed performance. Unexcused absences from performances will result in a 21% grade deduction and students will not have the opportunity to make up these lost points. The only excused absences from a performance are as follows: 1. You are ill the day of the performance and are absent from school. Please notify the teacher as soon as possible to report your illness/absence. - voicemail: 612-668-8615 - email: Laurie.Meyers@mpls.k12.mn.us 2. A family emergency occurs. Please notify the teacher as soon as conveniently possible. 6

III. Skills Assessments (10% of total grade) Students will complete assessments in 1) sightsinging, 2) music notation and terminology, and 3) scales and intervals. Curriculum and methods of assessment are outlined below: SKILL Sightsinging Music Notation and Terminology Scales and Intervals CURRICULUM or METHOD Bruce Phelps Sightsinging Manual SmartMusic (Optional, for use at home) Student Tutors Finale Student Tutors SmartMusic Student Tutors OTHER DETAILS -Text used in class for teaching the solfeg method. -Assessed during class. -Students may request a copy for practice at home. -Online practice & assessment tool available by private subscription for instant and visual feedback of pitch and rhythm accuracy. -Students who want to tutor other students should contact Ms. Meyers to be added to the list of Student Tutors (qualifies for service hours for NHS, church groups, boy/girl scouts, etc.) -Students who need additional help can make individual appointments with Student Tutors. -Software used in class for practice and assessment (flashcards, worksheets, etc.). See above in Sightsinging -Daily practice in class on solfeg. -Assessed during class. See above in Sightsinging See above in Sightsinging IV. Other Assignments (8% of total grade) Students will be asked to complete other assignments through the course of the school year, including (but not limited to) evaluation of learning targets, journaling, singing in quartets or other small groups, and completing an independent project at the end of the school year. 7

THE STUDY AND USE OF SECULAR AND SACRED MUSIC IN THE SOUTH HIGH SCHOOL MUSIC PROGRAM It is the intent of the South High School Music Program to expose our students to the classroom study and performance of the highest caliber of music literature, whether it be from a sacred or a secular tradition. We annually program a wide variety of music, which include both sacred and secular works from many cultures and genres. In no way should this informed-study suggest or forward the notion that this music program promotes or advances a specific religion or religious doctrine. We study both secular and sacred music literature for its inherent art and for its value to society throughout the ages. Through its public performance, we grow in our understanding of its place and its contribution to the aesthetic arts - which continue to inspire and elevate the human spirit in all times and places. The study and performance of religious music within an educational context is a vital and appropriate part of a comprehensive music curriculum. The omission of sacred music from the school curriculum would result in an incomplete educational experience. -The National Association for Music Education (NAfME) 8

CLASS EXPECTATIONS Students arrive on time for class with black binder, music, and pencil. Students participate in classroom activities in a positive manner. Students give their best effort every day to improve their personal singing and the entire ensemble sound. Students give their best effort every day to support the other members of the ensemble and help create a community in which every member belongs. Students are expected to follow South High School Behavior Expectations including policies regarding hats, electronic devices, cell phones, headphones, and dress. General Reminders 1. No food, candy, gum, or drink is allowed in any music room with the exception of water. Repeatedly ignoring this rule will result in a deduction from your Daily Participation Grade. 2. Bad (foul) language will not be tolerated in the classroom. 3. No cell phones, electronic devices (mp3 players, etc.), or headphones are allowed during class time, unless the teacher has asked students to use them as part of class work or rehearsal. Items may be confiscated if found in use during class, and they will be turned over to an administrator. 4. Hats or other headwear are not allowed, unless for religious, cultural, or medical reasons. 5. Please put away chairs after using them and refrain from writing on the chalkboards or other property of the school. 9

OTHER CONSIDERATIONS Print Music Each student will be assigned a folder number and issued numbered print music with that assigned number for use during the school year. Varsity Choir and Pop Singers members will be assigned a numbered black choir folder as well. These materials are property of the Minneapolis Public Schools, and it is the student s responsibility to take care of the music and other school-owned items that may be issued to the student for the year. Any lost or damaged music or other items will be billed to the student at the current market value. Music Suite Hours (Rooms 102, 102A, and 202) The Band Room (102) and Orchestra Room (102A) are generally open from 7:15 am until 3:15 pm daily. The Choir Room (202) will be open only during class time or by appointment during lunches. For the security of our rooms, materials, and instruments, office staff, and engineering staff will not open up any of the Music Suite Rooms for students. Private Lessons Private lessons are not required for participation in any of South High s music ensembles. They are, however, highly recommended and will greatly enhance a student s musical experience. Assistance with finding a private teacher is available from your teacher. Music Letters Students may earn a letter in their music class by earning points for participating in events and activities that take place outside the regular schedule of required concerts and programs. A letter may be earned each year. Points may not carry over to another year. A form for keeping track of lettering points is included in this handbook. Field Trips (including Annual Spring Competition Trip) Students must be in good standing with all of their classes regarding attendance and grades (student cannot be failing any classes). Students taking part in the Spring Competition Trip must qualify under the eligibility requirements of the MSHSL (Minnesota State High School League) as follows: #4: I have not and will not use or possess tobacco or alcoholic beverages, use, consume, have in possession, buy, sell or give away any other controlled substance, including steroids, or drug paraphernalia and #6: I have not and will not violate the racial/religious/sexual harassment/violence/and hazing bylaws of the MSHSL. *The full MSHSL Eligibility Brochure is posted online: http://mshsl.org/mshsl/publications/code/forms/2012-13atheliginfo.pdf. 10

FOLLOW THESE STEPS TO JOIN MS. MEYERS ON REMIND There are 2 ways you can join: 1. Visit this link online: Concert Choir: http://remind.com/join/meyerscc Women s Choir: http://remind.com/join/meyerswc Varsity Choir: http://remind.com/join/meyersvc OR 2. Join via SMS! Enter this number on your cell phone: (612) 255-5030 and send a text with this message: Concert Choir: @meyerscc Women s Choir: @meyerswc Varsity Choir: @meyersvc What s Remind? Remind is a simple way for you to stay informed and up-to-date with what s happening in your class. By joining your teacher s class on Remind, you re choosing to receive class messages via push notifications, SMS, or email. Don t worry, your phone number will not be shared with the teacher or anyone else in the class. 11

LETTERING CRITERIA MINNEAPOLIS SOUTH HIGH SCHOOL MUSIC DEPARTMENT To earn a Letter in Music, students must accumulate a total of 52 points during one school year while being registered in a performance ensemble. Students must present their records of point earning activities to their teacher for approval for a Music Letter. A student may earn a Letter every year they are registered for a music class at South High School. Some points are variable, in which case, the teacher will make the point determination. Activity Point Value Private Lesson (1 hour/week) 10 Private Lesson (½ hour /week) 7 Outside ensemble (meets weekly) 10 Outside performance 3-5 (variable, teacher-determined) Choral Festival (Dorian, St. Olaf, etc.) 5-10 (variable, teacher-determined) All-State Choir auditions 10 All-State Choir camp and performance 10 Solo & Ensemble performance Superior Rating 10 Excellent Rating 8 Good Rating 5 Pit Orchestra/Musical 10 Concert attendance Save programs (School, college, or professional) Concert Help (risers, tickets, sound, programs) 1-5 (variable, teacher-determined) 1-3 (variable, teacher-determined) Music Council Officer 5 Music Letter Log Sheet Activity Date of Activity Explanation of Activity Points Given 12

Activity Date of Activity Explanation of Activity Points Given 13

Minneapolis South High School Music Department 2014-2015 Concert and Event Schedule Fall Concerts Monday, November 10, 2014 Jazz Ensemble II & Jazz Ensemble I Tuesday, November 11, 2014 Concert Choir, Women s Choir, Varsity Choir, & Pop Singers Thursday, November 13, 2014 String Orchestra & Chamber Orchestra Friday, November 14, 2014 Concert Band, Symphonic Band, & Wind Ensemble Holiday Concert Tuesday, December 16, 2014 South High Community Bands & Pop Singers South Singer Showcase Thursday, January 15, 2015 Jazz Ensemble I with Pop Singers and special guest 8 th Annual Pops Concert Thursday, January 29, 2014 Chamber Orchestra, Varsity Choir & Wind Ensemble Winter Concerts Thursday, February 5, 2015 Community Jazz, Concert Choir & String Orchestra Friday, February 6, 2015 Jazz II, Women s Choir, & Concert Band Tuesday, February 10, 2015 South Community Band & Symphonic Band Tour Benefit- Montage Concert Friday, March 20, 2015 Chamber Orchestra, Varsity Choir, Wind Ensemble, & Small Group performances 14

Spring Concerts Thursday, April 30, 2015 Pop Singers & Jazz Ensemble I Friday, May 1, 2015 Concert Choir, Women s Choir, & Varsity Choir Tuesday, May 5, 2015 String Orchestra & Chamber Orchestra Thursday, May 7, 2015 Jazz Ensemble II & Concert Band Friday, May 8, 2015 Symphonic Band & Wind Ensemble Annual Music Picnic Tuesday, May 26, 2015 All Music Students invited Lake Nokomis Park Graduation 2015 Wednesday, June 3, 2015 6:00 pm Mariucci Arena, University of Minnestoa Chamber Orchestra, Varsity Choir, & Wind Ensemble All Concerts begin at 7:00 pm in the South High School Auditorium Tickets: $5.00 adults $3.00 students (unless otherwise noted) For more information: call 612-668-4300 or check www.south.mpls.k12.mn.us/music.html 15

South High School Music Department Internet Guidelines & Media Release Student Name (print): Ensemble: I.D. # Grade Date: Internet Guidelines The use of District access to the Internet, to District e-mail accounts and District networks is a privilege. District policies regarding harassment, violence, bullying and hazing apply to Internet and e-mail use regardless of the access point used. Students will: 1. use only those Internet sites that are connected to their course of study or that a teacher has given them permission to use. 2. follow all policies, laws and regulations regarding copyright and use of Internet materials. 3. at all times accurately represent themselves on the system. 4. use appropriate language. Speech or language that is inappropriate for classroom use is inappropriate for Internet or e-mail use. Students will not: 1. divulge their whole name, address, or telephone number through email or internet access unless directed to do so by a teacher for an educational purpose. 2. upload or transmit multimedia including the voice or image of any other person unless directed to do so by a teacher for educational purposes. 3. use anyone else s password or open or use anyone else s files unless directed to do so by a teacher for educational purposes. 4. download or install any software while using the District system without permission. 5. open links leading to advertising or competitions, unless directed to do so by a teacher for educational purposes. 6. use proxy servers to access Internet content that is blocked by any filter employed by the District. 7. use the District system to post unauthorized or inappropriate personal information about a user or another individual on social networks, including, but not limited to, networks such as Facebook. Student files and e-mails created or transmitted using the District system are District property and may be viewed by District personnel at any time. Students who violate these regulations are subject to discipline according to the citywide disciplinary policy and school rules, which may include loss of access privileges, suspension, paying for repairs or damages, or referral to civil or criminal system authorities for possible prosecution. X X Parent/Guardian signature Student signature * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Media Waiver I give permission for the Minneapolis Public Schools and the South High Music Department to use my student s name, photographs, audio and video recordings, and written work for educational purposes. Parent/Guardian Signature X Date (OVER) 16

STATEMENT OF UNDERSTANDING FOR SOUTH HIGH SCHOOL MUSIC STUDENTS AND PARENTS/GUARDIANS We have read the complete South High School Music Handbook and understand the expectations involved in the South High School Music Program, especially those involving grading procedures, performance expectations, required concert attire, required materials, responsibility for printed music, the use of secular and sacred music in the curriculum, and the Minnesota State High School League eligibility rules regarding substance/tobacco/alcohol use (pertains to field trips and Spring Music Competition Trip). We further understand that the director is always available for consultation and should be contacted should any problems arise. ENSEMBLE IN WHICH THE STUDENT PERFORMS: -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Student: PRINTED NAME OF STUDENT: DATE: SIGNATURE OF STUDENT: PREFERRED EMAIL: PREFERRED PHONE: (Circle one): home phone cell phone -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- For the Parent/Guardian: PRINTED NAME OF PARENT/GUARDIAN: DATE: SIGNATURE OF PARENT/GUARDIAN: PREFERRED EMAIL: PREFERRED PHONE: (Circle one): home phone cell phone Please contact me regarding these opportunities: Concert Night Volunteer (concessions, tickets, Star Notes) Concert Night Volunteer (video and/or photography can use your equipment or ours) Field Trip Chaperone Fundraising Publicity (press releases regarding concerts & accomplishments to area newspapers) Graphic Design (flyers, posters, etc.) Photographing ensembles in rehearsal or at events Creating & maintaining photography archive & posting current photographs in the room Maintaining web page with updated photographs and announcements Maintaining choral print library Other: ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------(OVER)>> 17