1. INTRODUCTION TO SGVCC
Welcome to the San Gabriel Valley Children's Choir! Since our founding in 1998, SGVCC has been dedicated to nurturing young talents and fostering a love for music in the community. Our choir provides an enriching environment where children can develop their musical skills, learn teamwork, and build confidence.

2. MISSION STATEMENT AND GOALS
Our mission is to inspire excellence in choral music, develop artistic expression, and cultivate a lifelong appreciation for music. Our goals include:

• Providing high-quality music education.
• Creating diverse and engaging performance opportunities.
• Encouraging personal and musical growth in a supportive environment.

3. SGVCC CALENDAR

• https://www.sgvcchoir.org/calendar

4. CHOIR MEMBERSHIP

Welcome to the San Gabriel Valley Children's Choir (SGVCC)! This section provides essential information about joining our choir family, including the enrollment process, membership fees, attendance policies, and expectations for members.

Enrollment Process:

• Application Submission: Prospective members are required to complete and submit an enrollment application, available on our website. Register
• Acceptance and Registration: After auditions, successful candidates will receive a letter of acceptance. Following this, registration must be completed, which includes submitting required forms and payment of fees.

Membership Fees and Payment Schedule:

• Enrollment Fee: $35 (Non-Refundable). This fee includes a Polo Shirt and a Music Binder. Students are responsible for maintaining their binders in good condition. Please note, there is a $10 replacement cost for any binder that is damaged or lost.
• Fee Structure:

• Full Year Membership:  Members may opt to pay in three installments. Please note, as this is offered at a discounted rate, it is non-refundable.
• Seasonal Membership: Available for Fall, Spring, and Summer seasons.
• Walk-in Membership: Payable weekly, ideal for those who prefer a flexible attendance option.

• Financial Aid and Scholarships: Information on available scholarships or financial aid for eligible families, including application processes and deadlines.

Attendance Policy & Award Eligibility:

• Attendance will be taken at every class session, rehearsal, and performance.
• Students with more than 30% absences per semester will not be allowed to perform in the Christmas Concert or Annual Concert.
• To receive a Perfect Attendance Award, students must not exceed three absences for the entire school year.
• Missing two rehearsals within the month prior to a major concert, or missing the final rehearsal before a concert, will result in ineligibility to perform.

Award Eligibility

• Students who wish to receive recognition awards must meet the minimum attendance requirement of 90% and be actively involved in choir events.
• Participation in performances, volunteer opportunities, and community events is essential for eligibility.
• Eligible students may qualify for the following awards:
  ✅ Congressional Recognition
  ✅ California Assembly Recognition (CA Assembly Recognition)
  ✅ California Senate Recognition (CA Senate Recognition)
  ✅ President’s Volunteer Service Award

Expectations for Members:

• Commitment: Members are expected to commit to the choir schedule, including regular rehearsals and performances.
• Behavior and Conduct: Members should display respectful and cooperative behavior towards instructors and fellow choir members. This includes following instructions, participating actively in rehearsals, and demonstrating a positive attitude.
• Practice Expectations: Members are encouraged to practice their parts outside of regular rehearsals to ensure steady progress and preparedness.
• Representation: As members of SGVCC, students are expected to represent the choir positively in all interactions, both within and outside choir activities.

5. CHOIR PROGRAM

Non-Auditioned Programs
Children in Pre-K through 3rd grade do not require an audition to enroll in our programs. Parents may enroll their child at any time for the upcoming session.

APPRENTICE CHOIR (AGE 4-7)

The children in our program are able to match and repeat pitches and rhythms, and they are competent English readers. They work comfortably in the group rehearsal environment and continue to develop their well-supported, healthy singing voice (head-voice). We offer a weekly sequential music literacy curriculum to help them achieve this.

Our students learn to follow a conductor and understand concepts such as entrances, cut-offs, and interpretation. We prioritize teamwork as an essential skill and focus on developing independent singing and decision-making as it relates to group dynamics. They sing in unison, frequently in rounds, and occasionally perform two-part repertoire in various languages.

Audition Program

INTERMEDIATE CHOIR (AGE 7-10)
In our program, children continue to develop their posture, breathing, and vocal technique. We work on part-singing, sight-singing, and aural skills to help them gain greater musical independence.

In addition to their vocal training, they also participate in discussions about the style, cultural context, and history of various pieces of repertoire. As local ambassadors of the choir, they frequently represent the organization at events.

Our intermediate choristers are becoming vocal and social leaders through the development of their musical skills and confidence. They are capable of singing advanced-level repertoire in two, three, and four-part rounds.

CONCERT CHOIR (AGE 9 AND UP) Audition Required
In the Concert Choir level, choristers sing independently in three to four parts, demonstrating advanced vocal techniques, fluency in sight-reading and harmony, and successful performance of music in a variety of languages and styles. Emphasis is placed on advanced sight-singing and aural skills, as well as understanding and analyzing the choral score. Choristers are encouraged to develop a secure sense of vocal independence and adaptability as performers. Youth are given opportunities to take on elected roles, which further develops their leadership skills and independence both within and beyond the Choir program.

CHAMBER CHOIR
To participate in the Chamber Choir, simultaneous participation in the Concert Choir is required, as well as attendance at all mandatory events and retreats. Choristers in this ensemble are expected to demonstrate advanced musical independence and the ability to confidently sing mixed-voice choral works. Extensive home study is periodically required throughout the year.

6. REWARDS PROGRAM
Introduction to the Rewards Program:
In our choir, we believe in recognizing and celebrating the hard work, dedication, and progress of our students. To motivate and acknowledge their achievements, we have instituted a unique Rewards Program that uses a system of medals. This program is designed to foster a positive and encouraging environment, while also promoting a healthy sense of competition and personal growth.

How the Rewards Program Works:

• Bronze Medals:

• Each week, the classroom teacher will award a Bronze Medal to one student who has shown exceptional effort, improvement, participation, or skill.
• The criteria for awarding the Bronze Medal may include, but are not limited to, punctuality, practice, teamwork, leadership, musical improvement, and positive behavior.

• Medal Exchange System:

• Students can collect their Bronze Medals over time.
• For every three Bronze Medals collected, a student can exchange them for one Silver Medal.
• Similarly, each Silver Medal can be exchanged for one Gold Medal.

• Significance of Medals in Annual Evaluations:

• At the end of each year, teachers will select a "Student of the Year."
• The medals collected throughout the year will play a significant part in this evaluation. The number and type of medals will reflect the student’s overall contribution, growth, and achievement in the choir.

Guidelines and Reminders:

• Medals are awarded at the discretion of the choir teachers based on the established criteria.
• Students are encouraged to wear their medals during choir performances and events.
• Lost medals can not be replaced.
• Respect and kindness towards fellow choir members who receive medals are paramount. We celebrate each other's success as a choir family.

Our Rewards Program is designed not just to acknowledge talent, but also to reward effort, improvement, and positive contributions to the choir community. We hope this system will inspire all our choir members to strive for their best, both individually and as part of our harmonious choir family.

7. PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT
At the San Gabriel Valley Children's Choir (SGVCC), we believe that parental involvement is crucial to the success of our program and the growth of our young musicians. Active participation of parents not only supports the choir’s activities but also encourages a deeper connection between the children and their musical journey. This section outlines various ways in which parents can contribute to the SGVCC community.

Volunteer Opportunities:
Our choir thrives with the support of dedicated volunteers. Here are some ways you can help:

• Event Planning and Coordination: Assist in organizing choir events, including concerts, fundraisers, and social gatherings.
• Chaperoning: Accompany the choir to performances and trips, ensuring the safety and well-being of our members.
• Costume and Wardrobe Assistance: Help in managing and organizing performance attire, including fittings and maintenance.
• Fundraising: Participate in or lead fundraising activities to support the choir's financial needs, such as travel, uniforms, and scholarships.
• Logistical Support: Assist in setting up for rehearsals and performances, including managing music scores, arranging seating, and handling audio-visual equipment.

Parent Meetings:
Regular parent meetings will be scheduled to discuss upcoming events, share news, and gather feedback. These meetings are a great opportunity to stay informed, meet other parents, and share ideas for the choir’s development.

Support for Choir Events and Fundraisers:
Your attendance and support at choir performances, fundraisers, and other events are invaluable. We encourage you to invite friends and family to our concerts and participate in our fundraising initiatives. Your enthusiasm and advocacy significantly impact our choir’s visibility and success.

Communication with Choir Staff:
Open lines of communication are vital. We encourage you to reach out to choir staff with any questions, concerns, or suggestions you might have. Your insights and feedback are important to us.

Your involvement as parents is not just beneficial for the choir; it also shows your children the importance you place on their interests and efforts. Whether it’s through volunteering, participating in committees, or simply being present at events, your contribution makes a significant difference in the enriching experience we provide at SGVCC.

8. Health and Safety
At the San Gabriel Valley Children's Choir (SGVCC), the health and safety of our members is a top priority. This section outlines our commitment to maintaining a safe environment for all choir activities and provides guidelines to ensure the well-being of our students.

General Health and Safety Guidelines:

• Hygiene: Students are encouraged to maintain good personal hygiene, especially hand washing before and after rehearsals.
• Illness: Members should stay home if they are feeling unwell or exhibiting symptoms of illness. Parents are asked to notify the choir if their child will be absent due to health reasons.
• Injury Prevention: Proper warm-ups and vocal exercises will be conducted to prevent strain or injury. Students are encouraged to notify instructors of any pre-existing conditions that may affect their participation.

Allergy and Medication Information:

• Allergy Policy: Guidelines for managing common allergies, including food allergies during choir events.
• Medication Management: Procedures for handling and administering medication to students, if required. Parents must provide written consent and instructions for any medication.

Weather-Related Safety:

• Rehearsal Cancellations: Policy on canceling or rescheduling rehearsals due to severe weather conditions.
• Heat and Sun Safety: Guidelines for outdoor events or performances, including hydration and sun protection measures.

Mental Health and Well-being:

• Supportive Environment: Fostering an atmosphere where students feel supported and can express concerns about stress or anxiety.
• Resources: Providing information on mental health resources and support services if needed.

Joining the SGVCC is a commitment to musical excellence and personal growth. We look forward to having you as part of our choir family and to the wonderful musical journey ahead!