Vocal Ensemble (Chorus 1-2)

Class Description

Choirs at San Mateo High School perform literature chosen from various eras of musical history including: Medieval, Renaissance, Baroque, Classical, Romantic, Twentieth Century and Contemporary, including non-Western musical traditions. While learning the techniques of rehearsal and performance, the students analyze compositional elements in cultural and historical context, gaining a deeper aesthetic understanding of music. The rehearsal and performance schedule will require a time commitment outside the regular school calendar to include local venues, festivals, and a concert tour.

Prerequisite: none

Grades: 9 - 12

Class Syllabus

Course Objective

Upon successful completion of this course students will meet San Mateo Union High School District Academic Content Standards (listed at the end of syllabus) in the following ways:

Demonstrate rehearsal and performance techniques (e.g. proper posture, vocal technique, rehearsal etiquette, preparedness, proper attitude, etc.).
Perform beginning to advanced musical literature from various areas of musical history.
Analyze and assess music in a cultural and historical context, enriching a sense of this literature.
Reflect upon and assess the characteristics and merits of outside community musical performances.

Communication

Mr. Reifschneider will communicate to parents and students via School Loop e-mail. All students are to register at and check www.smhs.schoolloop.com daily for announcements, homework assignments, concert dates, extra rehearsals, deadlines, etc. Parents should register to be informed about concerts, homework, music booster events, and other communication. Parents can also communicate directly with Mr. Reifschneider through School Loop (as well as any of their student's teachers).

Student Expectation

Failure to meet expectations during a class period will result in suspension of rehearsal time and/or removal from class. All school rules will apply (including dress code, attendance and tardy policies, etc.)
Students will show respect for themselves, peers, teachers, equipment, room, etc.
Students will be on task toward class assignments and rehearsal at all times.
Food and drink are left out of the classroom (including gum). Water bottles are with caps are allowed.

Assessment Criteria

Choral classes are based on a point system, predominately based on participation in class and concerts. There are approximately 4000 points in each semester. Each class period, students earn 50 points for their prompt presence and having all required class materials (notebook, music, and pencil). Concerts are 500 points. A tardy student will earn half of the possible points (25 and 250, respectively). Bathroom breaks during class will be a 10 point deduction for the day. Make-up work will be accepted for excused absenses only. Only an excuse from a teacher for a school related activity will excuse any tardiness. Points are recorded and posted at the end of each progress report period for these and other required coursework.

Traditional Percentage Point Scale (A=100-90%; B=89-80%; C=79-70%; D=69-60%; F=59% and below)

Required Semester Coursework

Choral Concert Critique - Submit a one to two page paper with program attached. (Up to 50 points)
Classwork, Homework, Special Events, and Tests - (Points vary)
Class Participation in rehearsals and extra rehearsals - (50 points each)
Concerts and Performances - (500 Points each)
Rehearsal Etiquette Assessment - (300 Points each semester)

Make Up Work

Excused absenses only can be made up in the following ways:

Any Classical, Jazz Concert, or Musical Theater Critique (in addition to the one required) - Submit a one to two page paper with program attached. (Up to 50 points)
Participate in a school musical or other local community theater production during the previous summer or current school year - Provide a program signed by the director. (100 Points)
Participate in a CMEA Solo and Ensemble Festival, or an Honor Choir - (100 Points)

For other assignments, see Mr. Reifschneider.

Professional Concert Critique Guidelines

San Mateo Union High School District Academic Content Standards for Music

Artistic Perception - Students recognize, notate, identify and analyze essential elements of music using appropriate skills and terminology.
Creative Expression - Students synthesize and apply learned skills and knowledge in performing a varied repertoire of music. They compose, arrange and improvise music using state-of-the-art technology when appropriate.
Historical and Cultural Context - Students demonstrate knowledge and understand music from a variety of cultures and historical contexts. They analyze the role of music in past and present cultures throughout the world.
Aesthetic Valuing - Students critically assess, respond to, and find meaning in the aesthetic dimensions of a musical work using language unique to music.
Connections, Relations, Applications - Students apply what they learn in music across the curricula through written and oral expression. They learn about careers in and related to music.
Performance Norms, Ethics and Etiquette - Students develop and apply habits and behaviors appropriate in individual and group settings. They develop competencies and creative skills in problem solving, communication, and management of time and resources that contribute to lifelong learning.