PROGRAM OVERVIEW
The FAME Chorus program is comprised of two major ensembles as well as a Capella groups. The program focuses on the development of traditional choral skills through the rehearsal and performance of both advanced A Capella and accompanied choral literature from various style periods, cultures and genres. In addition, students develop an understanding of music history and theory as well as music and its relationship to other disciplines. Performance opportunities are available through participation in concerts, workshops, festivals and competitions scheduled throughout the year.
EXPECTATIONS OF STUDENTS
1. On time arrival to classes, rehearsals, performances, and events.
2. Attendance at all mandatory curricular events and performances.
3. Food, drink, and chewing gum are prohibited in all rehearsal rooms
and performance spaces.
4. ABSOLUTELY NO USE OF CELL PHONES IN CLASS OR
REHEARSALS.
5. Exhibit proper performance posture at all times during rehearsals
and performances.
6. Exhibit proper rehearsal etiquette during all rehearsals. Remain
attentive and on task from warm-up to dismissal in every rehearsal.
7. Exhibit proper concert etiquette at all performances both on stage
and in the audience.
8. Have all required materials at every rehearsal as outlined by the
area director.
9. Maintain a positive attitude at all times during rehearsals. A
willingness to accept feedback will help a student develop faster.
10. Students will dress appropriately for all concerts and shows
including make-up, hair, and concert attire. NO EXCEPTIONS WILL
BE MADE.
PERFORMING ENSEMBLES
Mastery Choir
Advanced Choir
Intermediate Chorus
Bella Voce’ (Women’s A Cappella ensemble)
AccaFellas (Men’s A Cappella ensemble)
InToneNation (Mixed A Cappella ensemble)
MATRICULATION IN PROGRAM
Class/level placements are made at the discretion of the director of the Choral department. Class placement juries are held at the end of each school year. Failure to adequately demonstrate skills required to matriculate in the program can prevent a student from advancing to the next performing ensemble and/or lead to dismissal from the Choral program.
REQUIRED DAILY MATERIALS
1. Music
2. Pencil
3. Music Folder
4. Chorus portfolio
REHEARSAL REQUIREMENTS
Students are required to rehearse techniques learned in class at home via take home and/or electronically administered assignments.
ANNUAL EVENTS (PERFORMANCES, COMPETITIONS, ETC.)
The following is a list of typical performances for the chorus program
during the school year:
September Saturdays • Douglas County Christmas Tree Lighting
DCSS Honor Choir • Annual Holiday concerts
Governors Honors Auditions • Spring Trip/ Competition
Large Group Performing Ensemble Evaluation
International Competition of High School A Cappella
GMEA All State Choir • Literary Meet Competition
Spring Musical • Spring Show Choir Show
*Additional performances may arise throughout the year to facilitate
special requests, school events, or collaborations with other departments.
PERFORMANCE ATTIRE
WOMEN: Red profusion knit concert dress, suntan convertible
dance tights, nude character shoes, black long opera gloves, 8 row
rhinestone bracelet, performance earrings, full face, and hair in
concert approved bun. All items will be purchased through the choral
department.
Makeup: Foundation, blush, red lip, smokey eye (black, white, silver)
Hair:(Formal Concerts) large neat hair bun on crown of head
(show choir)-depends on show theme.
MEN: Black tuxedo, Black shirt, red tie, Black socks and black shoes.
Tuxedo and tie will be purchased through choral department.
AFTER SCHOOL & WEEKEND COMMITMENTS
Students will be required to stay after school for rehearsals or attend
weekend rehearsals or other functions at various times throughout the
year. Some students will be required to stay after school weekly for
tutorials in order to supplement class progress. A rehearsal schedule
will be administered to both students and parents well in advance of
any functions outside the regular school day. If additional performance
opportunities arise, additional rehearsals may be scheduled. The best
way to remain informed as to any changes regarding your child’s rehearsal
schedule is through regular communication with your child and the Choral
Booster Club.
JURY EVALUATIONS
The Jury is a comprehensive performance-based evaluation held at the
end of each year. Students are assigned musical excerpts, solos, and/or
scales by their Vocal Coach several weeks prior to this evaluation. Jury
assignments are representative of the skills studied during the course of
the year. Students prepare Jury assignments independently and perform
them in front of an audience for a grade. Juries count for 15% of the
semester grade and contribute to a student’s class placement for the
following year.
PRIVATE VOICE LESSONS
Private lessons are strongly encouraged, and required, for students
enrolled in F.A.M.E. Musical Ensembles. Private lessons offer students
highly individualized instruction from a teacher who is specially trained on
his/her instrument. There are many great resources for locating affordable
private instruction. Consult your student’s ensemble director for a specific
details and requirements.
ADDITIONAL PERFORMANCE OPPORTUNITIES
We encourage students to seek out opportunities for music-making
outside of the classroom as long as they are not in conflict with their
Magnet commitments. These include: youth performing ensembles, honors
ensembles, community groups, collegiate ensembles, or even professional
ensembles.