If there is one word that defines a fine choir it is the word “ensemble”. Every aspect of extraordinary sound is founded on the concept of “ensemble”.

A musical ensemble is judged by the unified results of its members! Its success always depends on the closeness of its members, i.e., their bonding, binding, joining and connecting efforts. To ensure ensemble success each member must feel important. To feel important one must feel needed. To feel needed is to realize that every one contributes to the achievement of all. Together we work to build on the foundations of the tradition of excellence. Together we are open-minded for creative change for the betterment of our ensemble. Good members strengthen and support one another in order to progress toward our ideal of excellence.

To that end, the San Leandro High School Choirs shall offer to all students who desire the opportunity of participate in a vocal music ensemble designed to enhance their lives and their ability, and to advance to higher skills as they are prepared.

Additionally, choirs will discuss and study composers, poets, and the events that influenced the compositions being performed. Occasional assignments will be given to deepen understanding. Music theory, sight-reading, and active listening will receive an increased emphasis.

The choirs are primarily performance oriented; the students are given the opportunity to put into practical experience, before an audience, the theoretical and historical concepts learned in the classroom. Students will learn performance “etiquette”, the care and use of outfits and music, vocal technique and tonal concepts, and cooperation with others, leading to the formation of an ensemble more important than the individual performer.


Choir provides an opportunity for all entry level students to receive basic training in vocal techniques, musicianship, and performance skills. Topics to be studied include proper vocal singing and breathing techniques, melody, rhythm, music fundamentals, sight singing, active listening, and performance practices.

Notables is for students with more developed musical ability and exceptional talent.
This choir is open by audition only. This choir will expand on the skills learned
in Concert Choir. Members must be motivated to represent the
school in a number of various functions.  

 *Folder for their music            *Composition Notebook                *Pencils


  Be on time to class. When you enter the classroom you are expected to be in your assigned place with folder and composition book in hand, ready to sing or write by the time the tardy bell rings. Attendance will be taken at all class meetings and performances. The SLHS tardy policy is in effect at all times.

  No food or drinks (except bottled water) are allowed in the choir room during class time. NO GUM CHEWING...EVER!

  Cell Phones - Keep them off and out of sight. SLHS policy for cell phones is followed.

  Your music becomes your responsibility. You will be assigned music with a number. You are expected to bring your music to class every day. You must have a pencil with your music every day. If your music gets lost, stolen, misplaced, etc. you are expected to borrow someone else’s and Xerox copies for your own use. If the music is the publisher version (not Xeroxed) then you are expected to pay for the missing music, even if it has been stolen. Remember - our music is school property. It must be turned in when we are finished with it.

  Stay in the classroom during the entire rehearsal period unless called out or sent out. Bathroom releases will be limited and procedure will be established in each class.

  No talking during class. Talking doesn’t work because choir, by its very nature, is a singing and listening class. I will stop for questions/comments at appropriate time.

  Each participant is expected to give his/her best each day we’re together. If, for a medical reason or emotional upset you feel that it may be difficult to give 100% on a specific rehearsal, you need to tell Ms. Dent before class begins.

If you cannot sing for any reason, you are expected to participate through written observations in your composition notebook of the rehearsal process which will be turned in at the conclusion of the class.

  Finally, it is important to encourage and respect each other. Some have more musical knowledge than others coming in, but everybody will learn new things this year. Through working hard and caring about our time together, we can reach a common and satisfying level of achievement that will make great music and great people!






Performance Etiquette
Public performances, whether for a small group of one’s own peers, or for an auditorium full of people, is the culmination of many days and weeks of work. It is important that EVERY member of the choirs attend all concerts.

Be on time at the appointed place, dressed, and ready.
The conduct of choir members in the view of the public, either before, during, or after a program must be exemplary at all costs. You see, the choir is a public relations arm of the school and as such we must represent our school and choir in a manner befitting our standards of excellence.
Be a good audience. Learn from others.
Be respectful of other performers. Do not talk, move about, or enter or leave the auditorium during a performance of another choir or while a choir is on stage. What you give is what you receive back.
Do not use a cell phone during a performance. This is a most disrespectful action toward our choir, other performers and the audience. Keep your cell phone turned off.
Treat other performing groups as you would like to be treated by them.


When Performing
Give your all at every performance. Every audience has something unique to share with us. We have no right to cheat any audience.
Walk onto the risers (or your spots) quietly, without talking.
Always carry yourself tall remembering who we are!
Talking on risers is NOT allowed.
Chewing gum is NEVER allowed.
Keep your eyes on the director at all times.
Stay around after a performance as your help might be needed.
Be dressed in your outfits before you arrive and stay in your outfits until well away from the performance site.


Concert Attire:
Unless otherwise specified, choir members should arrive in their performance attire for each concert. Please make sure your shoes are black. If you have long hair you must wear it off of your face. Pull it back so the audience can see you!


Choir
 Women wear all black for concerts. This could be a dress or a nice shirt with pants or a skirt. No shorts please. Remember that you are representing SLHS and please plan your outfit accordingly.
 Men wear black suits with a white shirt.

Notables
 Women are expected to purchase a black formal dress (approximately $60) that will be worn at all concerts.
 Men are expected to wear a black suit. More info to be posted on this.



Absences from Performances:
While performance attendance is REQUIRED, sometimes emergencies do come up. Emergencies are considered a death in the family or illness where the choir member cannot sing. Work is not considered an emergency. Conflicts can often be resolved if there is enough warning. Take responsibility! Think and plan ahead!

In every case of absence, a note is required for documentation. The note must be no later than the next day the student comes to school. Upon missing a performance, you will be assigned a Research Project Option. Completion of the Research Project is REQUIRED for an A or a B. Failure to comply will result in a lowering of student grades.



Choir is unlike most academic classes in that students are expected to make the major contribution to the success of the group. The Director gives guidance and leadership, but choir members produce the product. Therefore, grades in choir will depend a great deal on the student’s attitude and cooperation, enthusiasm and interest, general conduct and behavior, attendance, and ability to follow directions.

Final grades will be determined after averaging grades assigned to the following categories:

30% Performances
    Remember attendance is mandatory at all performances.

20% Classwork
    Knowledge of music being prepared and presented, knowledge and use of correct     vocal technique, familiarity with musical terminology, improving sight reading     skills. Fulfillment of composition book assignments.

25% Participation
    Teacher observation of student singing, attitude, cooperation.

15% Tests
    Includes Singing Tests and Written Tests on the music we are studying.

10% On Time & Prepared
    Have your music and a pencil every day!

Remember...
 As a choir our total output is determined by everyone making a consistent contribution. One person’s absence changes the total choir “sound” and must be avoided at all costs.

 Failure to participate in the Performances or Research Project will be considered as detrimental as not taking a final test and can lower the final grade by two letter grades.

 Students and/or parents should feel free to discuss grades with the Director to gain an understanding of areas where further progress is needed.