Senior High Chorus (9–12)

COURSE OVERVIEW

The Senior High Chorus meets five days each week. Students in this class learn proper vocal technique, musicianship, and music reading skills. In addition, the chorus members build appropriate rehearsal and concert etiquette while developing a sense of responsibility for their role in the larger group. The chorus performs a variety of musical selections from a range of music genres, which includes two-, three-, and four-part music.

Students in this group are required to attend performances outside of the school day, including but not limited to, winter and spring concerts and commencement. These performances are a major part of the course grade.

There is no  prerequisite for this class.

• Demonstrate characteristic vocal tone with round, tall vowels, diction and articulation with appropriate posture and breath support/control, both in individual and ensemble settings.

• Demonstrate the difference between basic vocal registers (head voice, chest voice, mix, and falsetto).

• Articulate and demonstrate conceptual knowledge of:

• Note names and corresponding intervals (distance, direction and labeling) using an established pitch system.
• Components of music notation including staff, clef, key and meter signature, tempo, dynamic, articulation and style markings.
• Score/Octavo/Part identification, instrumentation/voicing.
• Major and minor tonalities.

• Demonstrate understanding of differences in musical elements by listening to and contrasting selected musical recordings or performance music.

• Using specific criteria, describe the differences and the similarities of selections.

• Demonstrate correct posture at all times, sitting or standing.

• Demonstrate diaphragmatic breathing and breath support/control.

• Demonstrate pure vowel formation.

• Demonstrate appropriate consonant enunciation and syllabic stress.

• Sing in tune with musical phrasing and interpretation.

• Demonstrate rhythmic accuracy and internalized pulse.

• Perform a variety of musical literature that is appropriate for students’ age and abilities.

• Perform music of various styles and diverse cultures using appropriate stylistic techniques (word stress), phrasing and expression (dynamic contrast).

• Perform music from various historical periods and/or cultures, exploring and discussing its significance and background.

• Perform expressively using appropriate word and syllabic stress, enunciation, dynamics, diction, and pure vowel formation through the use of music from various styles and cultures.

• Using literature grade-appropriate music:

• Demonstrate and explain balance, blend, and intonation within section and between sections.
• Demonstrate and explain diaphragmatic breathing, breath control, and proper ensemble breathing.
• Perform with note/pitch accuracy, rhythmic accuracy and stability, appropriate style, accurate phrasing, with dynamic contrast.
• Use pure and unified vowel formation and strong consonant enunciation for ensemble singing.
• Demonstrate pleasing tone quality in both upper and lower registers and the ability to move freely between registers.
• Sing independent part within the ensemble.

• Respond properly and appropriately to conductors’ conducting signals.

• Articulate and demonstrate appropriate dress and etiquette for concert settings.

• Identify, define, and demonstrate knowledge of all terms regarding tempo, style, and dynamics as experienced in the selected literature.

• Identify and describe how music is used in a society/culture for entertainment, education, recreation, furthering traditions, political, commercialism, intellectual expression, etc.

• Identify and describe amateur and professional music vocations and avocations, including music educator, singer, instrumentalist, composer, conductor, marketing and public relations, etc.

• Define the relationships between the content, concepts, and processes of the other fine arts and other subjects with music using a variety of media. Describe how concepts and processes of other fine arts and subjects interrelate with music.

• Develop and apply a list of musical criteria (breathing, blend, balance, intonation, style, dynamics, etc.) and extra-musical criteria (appearance, performance demeanor, etc.) for evaluating the accuracy and effectiveness of individual and group performances.

• Make independent judgments of quality regarding: ensemble clarity, tone, intonation, balance, blend, technical skill and facility, musicality and structure.

• Evaluate the quality and effectiveness of specific musical compositions using specific criteria.

• Evaluate the accuracy and effectiveness of individual and group performances using specific criteria.

Anchor Standard #1. Generate and conceptualize artistic ideas and work.

Anchor Standard #2. Organize and develop artistic ideas and work.

Anchor Standard #3. Refine and complete artistic work.

Anchor Standard #4. Analyze, interpret, and select artistic work for presentation.

Anchor Standard #5. Develop and refine artistic work for presentation.

Anchor Standard #6. Convey meaning through the presentation of artistic work.

Anchor Standard #7. Perceive and analyze artistic work.

Anchor Standard #8. Interpret intent and meaning in artistic work.

Anchor Standard #9. Apply criteria to evaluate artistic work.

Anchor Standard #10. Synthesize and relate knowledge and personal experiences to make art.

Anchor Standard #11. Relate artistic ideas and works with societal, cultural and historical context to deepen understanding.

Unit:  Singing Skills

Lessons:

• Posture
• Breath Support
• Tone Production
• Pitch

Unit:  Musical Concepts/Elements of Music

Lesson:

• Basic Musical Terms and Symbols
• Rhythm
• Dynamics
• Tempo
• Musical Expression

Unit:  Reading and Singing Choral Music

Lessons:

• Repertoire
• Independent Singing
• Collaborative Singing
• A Cappella Singing
• Singing with Accompaniment

Unit:  Performance

Lessons:

• Concert Preparation
• Winter Concert Performance
• Spring Concert Performance
• Commencement Concert Performance
• Performance Reflection and Self-Assessment

Unit:  Music Evaluation

Lessons:

• Musical Styles and Genres
• The Historical Significance of Music
• The Interdisciplinary Significance of Music
• Musical Critique
• Music as a Career