Syllabus

MU233 - Chorale

9:00MWF 9:30R; Treen Auditorium

Mrs. Lisa Benner

Office 104A; Phone (318) 357-3174 ext. 164

COURSE GOALS & OBJECTIVES

To develop a correct, healthy, and safe vocal technique; to continually improve the sound quality and performance artistry of the Chorale through the study of various styles of choral literature; and to present the basic music theory principles necessary for developing each members sight reading ability.  To educate its members in the ”team” aspects of producing a good choral product and foster a pride and enthusiasm for this team effort.

MATERIALS

Black three ring binder - music will be assigned to you by number.  It will be your responsibility to keep this music in good
condition, and return it at the end of the semester or pay the cost of replacing the piece.
Pencil  -  NEVER COME TO REHEARSAL WITHOUT A PENCIL IN YOUR HAND!!!  You will be given directions and instructions at
various times in rehearsal.  Write these things in your music and   then read your markings!
Music  -  bring ALL your music to EACH rehearsal!  You can’t mark your music if it’s in your dorm room.

Failure to bring these materials to every class will result in an SEF.  Four or more SEF’s will result in a lowered grade for the semester!

ATTENDANCE

It is the nature of a performing ensemble to demand 100% participation of its team members, and to very often take some extra time in the week(s) before a performance. 

Attendance will be taken at 9:00 AM sharp.  Anyone entering rehearsal after attendance has been taken will be marked tardy.  Three tardies will equal one unexcused absence.  All absences will be recorded on the absence report according to LSMSA policy.  The administration will then determine whether the absence is excused or unexcused.  Two unexcused absences will result in the final letter grade being lowered by one letter.  Again, according to LSMSA policy, four unexcused absences will result in a failing “D“ for the course.

1)  Rehearsals -Attendance is MANDATORY.  As part of this group, you have a commitment to each other and our goals.  Every
member of this ensemble is a necessary piece of the whole.  Because of this commitment, it is your duty and
responsibility as a member of this group to keep yourself healthy and in working order:  You are expected to dress
appropriately for the weather.  If it is cold, (below 55) I expect to see shoes and socks on your feet, long pants or skirts,
long sleeves, a warm coat, and a scarf around your neck.  If you are unable to sing, but not officially excused from your
classes, you are still expected to attend rehearsal (with your music and your pencil!) to listen to your parts being worked
out, and to mark your score with any relevant instructions.  This also means getting enough sleep, eating properly,
managing your time wisely, and avoiding procrastination so as to reduce unnecessary stress.  We all get stressed and
tired, and all have work piled up on us, but it isn’t fair for some to sacrifice the time and show up while others just miss
rehearsals.  If you become sick as a result of carelessness or personal abuse, and are unable to sing, you will receive an
unexcused absence from rehearsal.

2)  Dress rehearsals - Attendance at dress rehearsal is also MANDATORY.  An unexcused absence will result in the semester
grade earned being lowered by one letter.

3)  Our Concerts - Attendance at concerts is of course mandatory.  These act as the final exam in this course.  Consequently, an
unexcused absence from a concert will result in a failure for the course.  Failure to perform properly dressed will result in
the semester grade earned being lowered one half grade.

4) Outside Concerts – Throughout the semester, attendance at concerts offered at NSU will be a required component of this class. 
As soon as they release their calendar, you will be given these dates.

IT IS YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO CHECK IN WITH THE PERSON TAKING ATTENDANCE TO RECORD YOUR PRESENCE!

PRACTICE

A minimum of 20 minutes per day is required to keep the music and instructions fresh in your mind.  Try to find someone who sings a different part than you do to practice with to help gain independence of your own vocal lines.

EXAMS

As stated above, the concerts will act as the major exams for this course.  There will be periodic testing of theory material and part tests.  Chorale members will sing for the director either individually or in quartets to check for correct pitches, rhythms, diction, intonation and posture.  These tests will be: Sept 2, Sept 16, Oct 7, Oct 21, Nov 11

GRADING

Grades will be a compilation of the following:
            1.  rehearsal attitude and cooperation (enthusiasm and interest; general conduct and behavior; ability to follow instruction;
and leadership and dependability) 60%
            2.  preparedness for rehearsal (music and pencils in your hands) 15%
            3.  part tests/sectional work 25%
            4.  attendance at rehearsals and concerts (See attendance for grading policies)

CONCERT ATTIRE

Women - A long black dress or black blouse and long black skirt no shorter than your ankles. I have multiple catalogs with a
variety of styles and prices black nylons; comfortable but dressy black shoes that cover your feet – no flip flops or other
heelless styles - No spaghetti straps, backless dresses or blouses, plunging necklines, off the shoulder, or other
inappropriate type tops - Skirts may not have slits any higher than the knee.  Jewelry should be understated - nothing that
will draw the audience’s attention away from the music.
Men - A black tuxedo; black cummerbund and bowtie; black socks; black shoes.  (I have catalogues that will outfit you with a
complete tux ensemble for about $120.00.  This is less than the cost of two rentals.)  Also no jewelry that will draw undue
attention.

All members - as a courtesy to others, please don’t wear scented hair spray or perfume, or strong or heavy scents of any kind.  Please DO wear deodorant and use breath mints if you have garlic or onions for dinner!

CONCERT DATES

TBA