Parent-Student  Handbook for Chorus

        The primary purpose of the choral program at Martin Middle School is to provide students with an educational experience in music.  The program emphasizes those skills and concepts that will provide a foundation for life long learning and a unique way of knowing and understanding the world.  Therefore, the primary function of the choral program is to develop student skills in:

     ·        Performing a varied repertoire of music
     ·        Reading and notating music
     ·        Listening to, analyzing, and describing music
     ·        Evaluating music and musical performances
     ·        Understanding music in relation to history and culture
     ·        Comprehending the importance of music and its relationship to both other arts
             and disciplines beyond the arts

      ***Remember – it is important to understand that the skills that are necessary to succeed in chorus are the same skills necessary to succeed in any music program.  The voice is an instrument that must be practiced like any other instrument.  Gaining confidence, control and developing versatility with the voice requires thoughtful practice and dedication.

Membership Policy

           Martin Middle School offers three general choral ensembles that group students by grade level, in addition to a select chorus of advanced students.  Every student must first pass an elementary audition that is designed to evaluate the ability level and vocal range of the student.  **It is important to note that great vocal skill is not a requirement, but the basic building blocks of musicianship are needed to ensure success in the program.  The ability to sing in tune, the desire to succeed in music, and the willingness to work together with other students to perform to the best of our abilities is necessary for our program to succeed.
            Each grade level is separate, and performs its own repertoire of music at our concerts.  The music gradually becomes more advanced as the year progresses, and also as each student moves through the 6th, 7th and 8th grade choral groups.  The skill of reading music is gradually introduced and is ultimately necessary to perform increasingly difficult (and more interesting!) music.  We do want to challenge ourselves to be musicians who sing, and not merely singers!  Therefore, students are expected to practice their instrument at home, and make every effort to keep pace with other chorus students.
            Our goal is to gain skill and confidence in using our voices as musical instruments – above and beyond the skills needed to be an average singer.  A great feeling of pride and accomplishment awaits anyone who works hard enough to be the best!  We at Martin are depending on your support in our musical endeavors, and hope that you help us to build upon our prior successes in music here in East Providence.
  

       It is important to remember that chorus classes are treated as academic classes.  Students will have to earn grades. Academic success in chorus class requires mandatory attendance at performances, individual assessments, evidence of vocal progress, classroom performance and attitude.  Since the chorus learns as a group, sings as a group, and performs as a group, we must all have a supportive attitude towards our fellow students, thus ensuring group success.
       Students will be given many opportunities to succeed in chorus, so there is no reason that any student should maintain a poor average.  Students in academic trouble are not contributing to the group's success, and may be removed from the program.  If this is the case for any student, the parents will be contacted regarding the unsatisfactory progress.  
      

Materials and Dress Code

          The school, with the exception of a 3-ring binder/folder and the relevant music reading method book, will provide most of the materials needed for the chorus class.  The binder and method book must be purchased through the school at a  cost of between $5 - $15.
          The dress code for our concerts will differ between the 8th Grade chorus and 6th and 7th Grade choruses. 

6th and 7th Grade Choruses:

White collared shirt or blouse
Black pants or skirt
Black shoes (no sneakers!)

In addition to sounding great, we will also look great!

8th Grade Chorus:

Floor length dresses and tuxedos will be provided
by the school to all 8th Grade chorus members.
(see photos)

            It has already been mentioned that attendance is both expected and necessary for all classes and rehearsals.  This is also true for all performances.  Any student who misses a performance will receive a failing grade.  No excuses will be honored except in the cases of emergency, tragedy, or severe illness.  Please respect our desire to perform to the best of our abilities, and understand that performance attendance is absolutely necessary.
 

            The following are expectations for students to follow in all chorus related activities:

1. Chorus students are expected to behave in a disciplined manner – both in class and during performances.
2. All chorus students must come to class prepared with their folders, music, and a pencil.
3. All students must make every attempt to be on time to class and to performances.
4. No gum, candy, food or drinks in class.
5. All students must support each others desire to gain confidence as singers.  Therefore no one is permitted to ridicule another student.  Disciplinary action will always follow such behavior.
6. Practice and care for your vocal instrument and sheet music.
7. HAVE LOTS OF FUN!!!  ---- Remember, that the pleasure that comes with singing is the reason we like doing this in the first place!  Great pleasure, however, comes from doing it well!!!!!
 
 
 

                                                                           Sincerely,

                                                                                          Mr. Robert Rappa
                                                                                          Choral Director
                                                                                          401.435.7844