Shalom High School Chorale

2007-2008

Director: Mrs. Jane Carlson 

Important Dates:

Christmas Concert Thursday December 13, 2007 7 PM

Variety Show Friday January 25, 2008 6:30 PM

Dutchfest Concert with the Izers Thursday May 1, 2008 6:30 PM

Concert at Antrim Brethren in Christ Church  April 20    6:30 PM - arrive 5:45

Concert at Calvary Assembly of God, Waynesboro  April 27    6:00 PM - arrive 5:15

Concert at Shanks Church of the Brethren  May 4    7 PM - arrive 6:15

Concert at Chambersburg Mennonite Church  May 11   7 PM - arrive 6:15

Chorale Perspective    

Ps 33:1 Sing joyfully to the LORD, you righteous; it is fitting for the upright to praise him.

Ps 47:6 Sing praises to God, sing praises; sing praises to our King, sing praises.

Ps 96:1 Sing to the LORD a new song; sing to the LORD, all the earth.

The bible leaves no doubt that we are to sing before the Lord! Chorale, as a course, is a culmination of a comprehensive vocal music program which begins in Kindergarten and continues through the ninth grade. In this course, students not only develop and extend their vocal skills, but also learn how God created music to stir man's heart, soul and spirit towards Him. Cooperation and discipline are stressed as students and director work towards developing that gift to its fullest capacity.

Purpose of Chorale

This course is designed to provide students with opportunities to develop their singing skills, primarily as a tool to implement the Great Commission of Christ: “Go ye therefore into all the world, and preach the gospel.” In Chorale, students learn a variety of sacred, traditional and contemporary Christian works to be used in school chapels, assemblies, Christmas and Spring Choral Concerts, annual Tour, and programs at local churches, nursing homes, and schools.

The annual tour provides the culmination of this course of study. This tour lasts approximately five days. Tour provides excellent opportunities to observe and practice the Christian life in action as the group spends intensive time together.

In addition, spin-off groups such as guy’s quartet, girl’s ensemble and mixed ensembles form most years. These expand musical experiences for interested students. In these groups, students develop their creative abilities by choosing music themselves and working both independently and with the director.

General Objectives

1. To sing for the glory of the Lord.

2. To review and extend known vocal skills from previous classes, as well as introducing new vocal skills such as breathing techniques, phrasing, diction, etc.

3. To learn vocal music through listening, sight-singing, rote, and working parts.

4. To learn both acappella and accompanied music.


5. To learn more of the mechanics of music such as key, rhythm, and the dynamics of music, etc.

6. To discuss and perceive the importance of the written word put to music as it relates to human emotion and God’s purpose.

7. To develop good self-esteem and satisfaction from a job well done.

8. To learn cooperation, self-control and responsibility as a means to the end.

9. To become the best we can be as God gives us ability and as prayer and the Holy Spirit enlighten us.


Expectations
1. Students are expected to be on time and to exhibit a positive attitude towards all aspects of choral work.
2. More experienced students are expected to help those less experienced - during Chorale there should be no class or age distinctions - we must become “one body”.
3. Students are expected to memorize music and notes as quickly and completely as possible - there can be no fine tuning of the selection until this is accomplished.
4. Students are expected to participate in all concerts, singing engagements, tour, and an occasional extra rehearsal.
5. Students are encouraged to attend concerts of community choruses, visiting choirs, and contemporary Christian concerts in the local area in order to experience listening to different vocal styles and presentations.
6. Students are encouraged to extend and expand their abilities by attempting solo work, participating in small groups and/or accompanying.
7. Students are encouraged to think creatively and to consider composing their own lyrics and music if so motivated.

Evaluation

In a course of this nature - grading tends to be somewhat subjective but includes the following:

1. Attitude

2. Attendance

3. Participation

4. Participation above required levels (groups, soloists, accompanists, officers)

5. Application of learned vocal techniques

6. Years in Chorale

7. Volunteerism

8. Theory Lessons/Quizzes/Test - “One Minute Theory”


In January 2008, auditions will be held for touring choir. 40 – 44 members will be chosen to travel to Ohio for the MSEC Music Festival, April 9 – 14, 2008.

Note: All Chorale members will perform in the Christmas & Spring school concerts and variety show as well as the spring church programs.