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CHOIR

2016 – 2017

Handbook

Steve White Rebecca Azard- Jackson

Director Assistant Director

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Dear Vista Ridge High School Member and Parent, Welcome to the Vista Ridge High School Choir!!! The Vista Ridge High School Choir has already established itself as an excellent choral program and we are confident that your child will enjoy being a part of this tradition as he/she musically grows. A member of any performing organization has a responsibility above and beyond that of a student who is not in an extra-curricular organization. Vista Ridge High School is fortunate to have Mr. Johnson, our principal, as a supporter of the fine arts and all extra-curricular activities.

Your child’s participation in the choir program is beneficial in many ways. In choir, students develop traits such as responsibility, dedication, self-discipline, social skills, confidence, leadership, dependability, commitment and teamwork. As a member of the choir, students will experience a sense of accomplishment and pride, and will develop musical and personal skills that will enrich their lives.

The Vista Ridge High School Choir Department will have approximately 190 singers to begin the year, divided into six choirs. Currently these choirs are the Concert Women’s Choir (made up of beginning female singers), the Concert Men’s Choir (made up of beginning and intermediate male singers) the A Cappella Women’s Choir (made up of intermediate level female singers), the Women’s Select Choir (a.k.a. “Sirens” - made up of advanced female singers), the Chorale (made up of men and women who have choral experience and advanced musical skills), and Ovation (smaller ensemble of very advanced singers 10-12th)

We are excited about continuing the private voice program here at Vista Ridge. Private lessons will be offered during your student’s choir class or after school. More information about teachers, schedules and prices will be coming soon.

Please examine this packet carefully. It contains valuable information regarding choir activities, uniform requirements, fundraising information, expectations, choir calendar, etc. Note that the following forms will need to be signed and turned into the Choir Director: 1) Choir Student Behavior Contract, 2) Parent Waiver/Medical Form, 3) Choir Directory, 4) Uniform Contract and 5) Booster Volunteer Form. These forms, money and all choir supplies are due on or before

Friday, August 26th. Students will receive a grade of 100 points if all forms, supplies and money are turned in on or before the due date. Also attached is a concert schedule. Please put concert dates on your family calendar EARLY to avoid conflicts later. Post the calendar in a prominent location. There are several concerts that students must attend because choir concerts are considered curricular activities. If you have any questions about our activities this year, please do not hesitate to contact us.

We are looking forward to a great year as we continue to build on the successes of the Vista Ridge High School Choir Program.

Sincerely,

Steve White Director

Rebecca Azard-Jackson Assistant Director

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Contact Information..............................................................................................................4 LISD Purpose.......................................................................................................................4 VRHS Choir Mission ............................................................................................................4 LISD Graduate Profile ..........................................................................................................4 LISD Ten Ethical Principles..................................................................................................4 Goals and Objectives ...........................................................................................................5 Conduct Expectations and Consequences ..........................................................................6 Digital Citizenship.................................................................................................................8 Due Process ........................................................................................................................8 Sexual Harassment ………………………………………………………………………………. 8 Financial Policy ....................................................................................................................8 Fees .....................................................................................................................................8 Fundraising ..........................................................................................................................9 Payment Information ............................................................................................................9 Insufficient Funds ...............................................................................................................10 Class Supplies ...................................................................................................................10 Ensembles .........................................................................................................................10 Auditions for Ensemble Placement ....................................................................................11 Rehearsal Expectations .....................................................................................................12 Performance Expectations .................................................................................................12 UIL Contests ......................................................................................................................13 TEKS..................................................................................................................................13 Grading ..............................................................................................................................13 Eligibility .............................................................................................................................14 Uniforms.............................................................................................................................15 Religious Music ..................................................................................................................16 All-State Auditions..............................................................................................................16 Private Lesson Program.....................................................................................................17 Letter Jackets.....................................................................................................................17 Registration ........................................................................................................................18 CHARMS ...........................................................................................................................18 Travel .................................................................................................................................19 Student Drivers ..................................................................................................................20 Adult Students....................................................................................................................21 Students with Jobs .............................................................................................................21 Student Leadership ............................................................................................................21 Texas Future Music Educators...........................................................................................21 Booster Club ......................................................................................................................22 Awards ...............................................................................................................................22 Handbook Contract ............................................................................................................23 Parent Waiver ....................................................................................................................24 Student Medical Information ..............................................................................................25

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Contact Information

Steve White, Choir Director………………………….....512-570-1866, Steve.White@leanderisd.org Rebecca Azard, Assistant Director………….……..512-570-1847, Rebecca.Azard@leanderisd.org Choir Website:………….………………………………………………………….…..http://vrhschoir.org Mark Craven, Voice Teacher…………………………...……512-468-1588, mcraven@austin.rr.com

LISD Purpose

The purpose of LISD is to educate each student to be successful in and ever-changing world. Every student is encouraged, supported and challenged to achieve the highest levels of knowledge, skills and character.

VRHS Choir Mission

To create an organization that produces quality performances in a fun and cooperative atmosphere. The ultimate goal is to:

reach the objectives set out in the LISD Graduate Profile

provide positive, successful experiences and opportunities for students of all ability levels

develop in students an enjoyment of music so that they will seek out opportunities in their adult lives as music performers and consumers

create memories that will be cherished for a lifetime

LISD Graduate Profile

Every LISD graduate is prepared with the knowledge, academic foundation, and life skills to be a productive learner, an effective communicator, and a responsible citizen, in order to be successful in an ever-changing world. The Vista Ridge Choir meets most of the expectations of the LISD Graduate Profile found at: http://www.leanderisd.org/docs/1-GradProfile2010.pdf

LISD 10 Ethical Principles

In the Vista Ridge Choir we strive to follow the 10 Ethical Principles as laid out by LISD, both in class and outside of class. They are:

Honesty - tell the truth - discuss problems directly with the people involved or the choir directors Integrity - do the right thing even when no one is watching - do not compromise your values Promise-keeping - do what you say you are going to do - abide by the Vista Ridge choir contract you signed Loyalty - support the Vista Ridge Choir and its members in both word and deed Concern for Others - create a tolerant, caring, forgiving, positive atmosphere where all students are

welcome Law-abidance/Civic Duty - be a good choir, school, and community citizen by following rules and helping out when

help is needed

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Respect for Others - be polite and kind to students, directors, chaperones, and guests - respect others’ time in choir through appropriate rehearsal behavior - respect other people’s boundaries and property Fairness - treat everyone equally, regardless of ability or choir class Pursuit of Excellence - always do your best - look for ways to improve - be a good leader to others Accountability - admit to what you do wrong - take pride in what you do right - follow through on commitments - pass your classes - be on time

Goals and Objectives

Vocal Techniques - develop proper breathing techniques for singing - understand the principles of vocal health and care of the voice - sing with correct sitting and standing posture - learn to produce good vocal tone - understand and sing with good diction (vowels and consonants) - develop technical precision for performance

Choral Techniques

- understand and achieve good choral balance and blend - understand and achieve good intonation and tone quality - understand and achieve rhythmic accuracy - understand and achieve expressive, artistic interpretation of the composer’s intent

Music Theory

- know and use pitch and rhythmic notation - know and use key and time signatures - know and use musical symbols/terminology - know and use dynamic markings - develop ear-training/listening skills

Sight-Reading

- sing solfege note names - count and sing rhythms - use the hand-signs related to solfege - sing in all keys, with all intervals - sing songs in unison with rhythmic accuracy using solfege names and hand-signs - sing songs in harmony with rhythmic accuracy using solfege names and hand-signs

Music History and Literature

- perform a variety of choral styles, eras and composers - listen critically to live and recorded performances from a variety of choral styles, eras

and composers Listening Skills

- make musical value judgments based on critical listening - self-evaluate the student’s individual, small ensemble, or large group performances - recognize the elements of a quality performance

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Performance Skills - perform individually - perform in a variety of voicings and groupings

Mental and Physical Development

- develop concentration - memorize music - learn techniques for musical preparation - develop self and group discipline - improve strength and endurance - improve coordination - enjoy singing - develop self-respect - gain a feeling of achievement - feel a sense of belonging - fulfill the desire to be recognized for contributions to choir

Citizenship

- develop leadership skills - develop responsibility - develop cooperation and teamwork skills - develop a strong work ethic - develop pride in the choir program

Self-Expression

- perform at auditions and concerts - investigate music careers

Conduct Expectations and Consequences

If you have self-discipline you will not need external discipline. A “disciplined” person is one who does what is right in the absence of instruction or authority. Making exciting music is fun but requires hard work. Outstanding choirs are the result of efficient rehearsals where the standard for behavior is high. Each singer is responsible for contributing to the success of each rehearsal. Only through mature, self-disciplined efforts of each singer can individual and group potential be realized.

Choir rules

1. Choir students will conduct themselves properly at all times a. Displays of profanity, temper, or flagrant violations of rules will not be tolerated b. Any behavior which is not representative of good citizenship in choir may result in

the student’s dismissal from the choir activity and/or from the choir program c. Choir students will exhibit above average conduct in all classes and activities

school- wide. d. Choir students will be courteous and respectful to others. Others include: fellow

students, choir directors, guests, chaperones, the choir parents, etc. 1. Choir students will sing to the best of their ability at all times 2. Choir students will follow the director’s instructions the first time. 3. Choir students will be on time to all choir activities.

a. Choir activities include but are not limited to: choir classes, rehearsals, sectionals, and performances

b. Tardies to choir class will be given to any student who is not in their assigned seat with all required materials when the tardy bell rings.

4. Choir students will bring all required materials to choir activities. a. Required materials include: choir folder, choir music, sight-reading materials, and

a pencil. b. Required performance materials include: choir uniform, choir t-shirt, costumes, etc.

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c. All required materials will be kept in the designated storage areas in the choir room and will be kept clean and orderly.

5. Choir students will keep the choir room clean and orderly. a. Choir students will not deface choir equipment or facilities.

6. Choir students will not chew gum, nor bring food, drinks or candy into the choir room unless they have permission from the choir director.

a. Food and drink are never allowed in any choir area (including practice rooms, ensemble rooms, storage rooms, offices) other than the main classroom.

7. Choir students will not talk during rehearsals so that time will be used wisely. a. Students will raise their hand and wait to be acknowledged before speaking.

8. Choir students will take care of all choir equipment and materials.

a. Equipment and materials include: music, books, folders, chairs, furniture, pianos, stereos, other student’s property, etc.

b. All pianos, phones, stereos, sound equipment are off limits without permission from the choir director.

c. Students may use the choir phone with permission from the choir director. d. The Choir Director’s office, choir practice rooms, and choir ensemble rooms are

off limits without permission from the Choir Director. e. Any original copies of music, sight-reading books, warm-up books, uniforms, or

any other materials checked out to or being used by students are the responsibility of the student. Fees will be assessed for materials that are damaged or lost.

9. Choir students will use the restroom, drinking fountain, and grooming articles before or after class only.

10. Choir students will keep hands, feet and objects to themselves. 11. Choir students will not disturb any choir rehearsal in progress before, during, or after

school. 12. Any student who is sent to ISS excessively and/or suspended, may be removed from the

choral department. Concert Etiquette Choir students will exhibit proper concert behavior during all performances in order to reflect positively on the VRHS choir program. The following rules will be followed at all performances:

1. Talking is not allowed. It is rude to the performers on stage and does not show support for the VRHS Choir program.

2. Do not leave your seat FOR ANY REASON (other than extreme emergency). You will be given ample opportunity to use the restroom and drinking fountain before concerts begin, therefore these are not considered extreme emergencies. If you must leave, do so as quietly and as inconspicuously as possible (make sure doors do not slam shut!)

3. Support your fellow choir members with appropriate applause. Yelling, whistling, shouting names, etc. are not acceptable. Set a good example for the audience and other students. Other people may not know how to act at a choir concert and will be watching you for clues.

4. Move between the stage and seating areas in quiet, single file lines. Sit in your assigned seat/row.

5. Enjoy the concert. This is the only time you will get to see it! 6. Stay for the entire concert (unless you have been excused in advance by the choir

director – excuses must be presented in writing, signed by a parent or guardian). 7. During serious music applaud only after the conductor has lowered his or her arms.

Consequences

1. Warning/conference with the student 2. Teacher assigned consequence:

conference with student and/or parent

lunch detention

alternate assignment (unfinished work=detention)

lowered choir grades

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participation in any choir trip revoked

choir privileges revoked 3. Office referral 4. Removal from choir program

Digital Citizenship

Maintaining a higher standard of conduct includes ensuring that choir member websites are appropriate. Any communication such as MySpace, Facebook, photo sharing, emailing, texting, etc., appearing on the internet is public domain, even if it is marked private. Choir students are responsible for their personal websites and postings, as well as posting from or on other students’ websites. The areas of appropriateness will include but are not limited to: profane, foul, or disrespectful language (abbreviated or alluding to); pictures; suggestive poses; clothing; references to alcohol, drugs, and/or tobacco; and postings (either verbal or photos) that could be interpreted as being negative or threatening towards LISD teaching staff or choir members, or that demonstrate poor sportsmanship or a disrespectful attitude towards other choirs. Any such incident will result in review by the choir directors and Vandegrift High School administration and may lead to the consequences as stated in this handbook.

Upon confirmation of internet policy violation, the choir student will be asked to remove any offensive items from the website(s) and will be asked to give an apology and plan of action to deter this behavior to the principal, directors, and choir members. Parents/guardians will be contacted and made aware of the offensive behavior. If the behavior continues the student will be removed from choir.

Sexual Harassment

Inappropriate verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature at school is prohibited by school board policy. Sexual harassment is prohibited against members of the same sex as well as against members of the opposite sex. Any student who experiences a sexually offensive comment or action by another student or adult at school or school-sponsored function is strongly encouraged to tell a parent, teacher, counselor, or principal. Parents/guardians who have reason to believe that their child has been subjected to sexual harassment should report this behavior to the principal. Students in violation may be removed from the extra-curricular portions of the program for a time period established between the directors and the administration. Reinstatement will be evaluated after the end of the school year.

Due Process

All Leander ISD students are entitled to due process in accordance with LISD guidelines. Our goal as a staff is to ensure that all students are treated fairly. Please contact the Choir Director if you have any concerns. We will work with you to resolve problems. We are here to provide a quality music education for all of our students.

Statement of Financial Policy

No student will be denied participation in the VRHS Choir due to financial hardship. Please speak to the choir director so that arrangements can be made for those in need of consideration.

Fees

Due to budgetary needs, students will be paying entry fees if they choose to participate in the TMEA All-State Choir Auditions and the UIL Solo and Ensemble Contest. Any student who signs up to

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participate and then does not participate in the activity will not receive a refund, regardless of the reason for cancellation. Please note that students who have not prepared their music will not be allowed to participate and will not receive a refund. The Choir Director will determine the preparedness of each student participating in Extra-Curricular Contests.

Additional Fees include a deposit for a uniform and payment for T-shirt. Fees (paid by student/parent)

All-State Auditions = $20.00

UIL Solo and Ensemble contest = $8.00 per event

Accompanist Fee for UIL Solo & Ensemble = 45.00

Uniform deposit and T-shirt purchase = $20.00

Fund-Raising

All fund-raisers are optional but students are encouraged to participate. Fund-raising money primarily goes toward student’s choir trip costs. Money raised above what is needed for the choir trip becomes the property of the VRHS Choir. Choir Officers determine how this money may be used to improve the choir department.

Guidelines

1. ***Per-IRS regulations, funds raised are not allowed to accrue to individual students. All funds must be divided equally between all choir members. ***

2. All money fund-raised belongs to VRHS Choir and cannot be refunded for any reason. 3. Students are responsible for the product being sold once it has left the choir room.

Problems with fund-raising order must be reported to a choir director within 24 hours. 4. ALL FUND-RAISING MONEY MUST BE TURNED IN AT ONE TIME ON THE DUE DATE.

NO PARTIAL PAYMENTS WILL BE ACCEPTED.

5. Receipts will be issued for all monies turned in. These receipts are available in each student’s personal file. Please notify the choir director if you need a receipt or copy of a receipt.

6. Students who turn in money late or fail to turn in money at all will not be allowed to attend choir trips until all money owed is paid in full.

Delinquent Accounts

The VRHS Choir must pay the fund-raising company for all products ordered and sold. Students are responsible for turning in all money for products they sold. Students must keep track of all money collected and pay off fund-raising accounts by the required deadline. Students who are delinquent in their payments toward choir fund-raising accounts will receive the following consequences: 1. Obligation list 2. Report Card will be held until account is paid in full 3. Students will not be allowed to attend any choir trip until all accounts are settled 4. Serious offenders will be dealt with through the AP Office and campus SRO

Payment Information

The following procedure should be used whenever any type of payment is made to the VRHS Choir: 1. If the payment is cash, you must have exact change. 2. Please make all checks payable to VRHS CHOIR.

3. A Driver’s License number and phone number are required on all personal checks. 4. Please include the choir student’s name in the “memo” area of all checks turned in. 5. Please send all money, and accompanying forms, in an envelope marked with

1) Student’s name 2) Class period

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3) What the money is for 6. Students MUST have a transaction form accompanying any payment made to

the VRHS Choir. (Transaction forms can be found in the Choir room) 7. All payments, especially cash should be paid before school starts in the morning.

Insufficient Funds

District policy states that we are not allowed to accept checks from any individual who has had at least one check to LISD that was returned for insufficient funds. Cash or money orders can be accepted in this instance.

Class Supplies

Everyone must bring 12 sharpened pencils with erasers. These will be put into a community choir pencil “box” to be used by all students throughout the year.

Everyone must bring 1 box of tissues. These are used throughout the school year, especially during the cold and flu season.

Ensembles

Beginning Choirs

Concert Women’s Choir (all 9th-12th grade beginning level girls)

Concert Men’s Choir (all 9th-12th grade beginning and intermediate level boys) This class is designed for students who have little or no high school choir experience or for students who need extra work on vocal development and/or sight-reading skills. Prerequisites:

Director’s approval

No previous experience is required

No audition is required Intermediate Choir

A Cappella Women (all 9th-12th grade intermediate level girls) This class is designed for students who have some middle school or high school choir experience and need extra work on vocal development and/or sight-reading skills.

Prerequisites: Director’s approval

Participation in this choir is determined by an audition to assess the student’s vocal technique, music reading skills and attitude.

Note: Freshmen with no high school experience may be placed in these classes based on their audition and recommendations form previous choir directors/music instructors.

Advanced Choir

Chorale (9th-12th grade men and women) This class is designed for advanced choir students who have achieved a high level of vocal development and music reading skills. Prerequisites:

Director’s approval

Participation in this choir is determined by an audition to assess the student’s vocal technique, music reading skills and attitude.

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Previous high school level choir experience is required. Eligibility (from previous year) is essential and is used as a determining

factor when placing students in advanced level choirs.

Previous years concert attendance, choir grades, sectional/rehearsal attendance, and extra-curricular choir activities will be considered when placing students in an advanced choir.

Show Choir

VRHS Ovation and Sirens (10th – 12th grade men and women) This class is designed for advanced choir students who have achieved a very high level of vocal development and music reading skills. Prerequisites:

Director’s approval

Participation in this choir is determined by an audition to assess the student’s vocal technique, music reading skills and attitude. This audition requires extra preparation by any student wanting to audition. (See Auditions For Ensemble Placement)

Previous high school level choir experience is required. Eligibility (from previous year) is essential and is used as a determining

factor when placing student in an advanced choir. Previous years concert attendance, choir grades, sectional/rehearsal

attendance, and extra-curricular choir activities will be considered when placing students in an advanced choir.

Auditions for Ensemble Placement

Students should consistently demonstrate leadership, maturity, and must attend all required choir activities as well as be actively involved in optional choir activities…especially All-State Choir and UIL Solo and Ensemble contests.

Sight-reading in the advanced choirs is extremely challenging. Students who wish to eventually participate in advanced choirs should make a concerted effort to daily improve their sight-reading skills.

In the event of a tie, the tie will be broken by grade level, with advantage given to the older student.

If there is no tie, the choir placement will be given to the student who has the best audition, as determined by the choir director(s), regardless of grade level.

Do not expect to be placed in a Varsity level choir without specific attention to daily improvement and outstanding participation in the VRHS Choir Program. You must work to improve your skills every day!

Audition Times

Students will audition before or after school in the spring. A sign-up sheet will be available for students to sign-up for 10 min. slots on Mr. White’s Office Door.

Audition Results

Results are based on the audition. Choir placement is not negotiable or changeable once the results have been posted. Any student who signs up for choir but does not audition will be placed in the Beginning Women’s Choir or Men’s Choir. Just because someone has already achieved a certain level of choir does not mean they will be placed in a choir of that level again the following year. Students may move up or down or stay the same based on their audition and other factors (i.e. eligibility or attitude). The point of the audition is to gather information to put people in the best choir for their ability and their attitude. Note that the Mixed choir(s) only have a limited number of

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openings for women based on the number of men placed in the choir. There is no guarantee that a student will be placed in ANY particular choir.

Audition Procedures

There are 2 parts to the audition: Sight-reading and Singing. Sight-reading Evaluation (40%)

This evaluation is based on pitch and rhythmic accuracy.

One minute (timed) study. You can sing and chant during study time if you wish.

Sing the sight-reading exercise. 8 measures long, no accidentals. Includes I (D M S), IV (F L D), V (S T R) and V7 (S T R F) chord intervals. Expect the exercise to be very difficult!

Direct o r’s Ev aluat ion ( 30 %)

This evaluation is based on the student’s level of leadership, commitment, attitude, responsibility and rehearsal skills this past year in choir (based on a 5 point scale with 5 being the best)

Singing Evaluation (30%)

This evaluation is based on pitch and rhythmic accuracy, memorization, and vocal quality.

Sing the melody of the National Anthem, a cappella, on the words, from memory. SHOW CHOIR (Sirens and Ovation) SINGING EVALUATION (required ONLY if you wish to audition for one of the two Show Choirs)

This evaluation is based on pitch and rhythmic accuracy, tone quality, and vocal independence. Learn your vocal parts (S A T B) of the audition song on your own (no teacher help) on solfege. You are welcome to use the choir room to practice by yourself or with your friends. However, the choir director and voice teachers will not be able to help you with this.

Perform your part by itself on solfege. You may use your music.

Perform the song with Mr. White. You may use your music.

Rehearsal Expectations

Students will have before and after school rehearsals depending on each concert or extra-curricular choir activity requirements

Students will always be given a schedule of before and after school rehearsals well in advance of the rehearsals so plans may be made to attend.

Before and after school rehearsals that are required are an extension of the classroom and students will be graded accordingly based on attendance, punctuality, participation, and preparedness.

Performance Expectations

1. All choir classes are required to perform at evening concerts throughout the year. 2. Failure to participate in either rehearsals or performances:

a. will result in a make-up work assignment (see Grading policy regarding absences) b. may affect a student’s grade c. may affect a student’s future placement and participation in choir

3. Choir Concerts include, but are not limited to: a. Fall Concert b. Holiday Concert c. Spring MS/HS Combined Concert d. Pre-UIL Concert e. UIL Contest f. Spring Pop Show

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4. All performance dates are included in the choir calendar given out at the beginning of the school year. An updated calendar will be given out at the beginning of the 2nd semester.

5. Information specific to each performance will be given in writing to each class prior to the performance.

6. Concerts have three parts: warm-up/rehearsal, performance, and listening. a. The concert begins with warm-up/rehearsal, time. Students must be on time or

their concert grade may be affected b. The concert concludes when the final song is performed. Students will be

dismissed to clean up and assist with takedown after the concert. 7. All concerts are an extension of the classroom and will be graded accordingly. 8. Students must be punctual and prepared for each rehearsal and concert. 9. If the performance causes the student to miss another class, the student is responsible for

making up all missed work. 10. The appropriate uniform is required for each concert. 11. Students are expected to stay for the entire concert.

University Interscholastic League (UIL)

UIL sponsors two music contests.

Solo and Ensemble Contest (February) This is an optional contest that students can choose to attend. Students are judged based on their individual or small group performance. Students can choose classical songs form the Prescribed Music List. Participation in this event will require time outside the school day.

Concert and Sight-Reading Contest (April) This is a required contest for all ELIGIBLE students. Students are judged based on the overall performance of the choir in which they participate. This UIL contest takes precedence over other school activities and any absence from school is considered excused. Students are responsible for any missed work. Rehearsals for this contest will take place during class; however, section rehearsals before and after school may be required if needed.

Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS)

Parents and students can refer to the following link to read the state curriculum for high school choral music. http://www.tea.state.tx.us/rules/tac/chapter117/index.html

Grading

Participation – 50%

1. Daily/weekly grades are determined by: a. preparation b. having all materials c. following all student expectations d. participation in daily activities including sight-reading, warm-ups, and all singing

activities e. posture f. overall attitude and contribution to the class environment

2. Making up or retaking a participation grade: a. Students have one week from the date of the posted Participation Grade to

complete a written assignment associated with the content of the course. b. If the student has missed the participation grade based on an excused absence or

absences, the student will have the opportunity to complete the written assignment for a maximum grade of 100.

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c. If the student has missed the participation grade based on an unexcused absence, absences or it has been determined by the director that the student has refused to participate in class, the student will have the opportunity to complete the written assignment for a maximum grade of 70.

Oral Work – 40%

1. Concert Grades a. Students will receive a grade of 100 for each pre-concert rehearsal in which they

participate. b. Students will receive a grade of 100 for each Concert performance in which they

participate. c. Concert grades will be lowered for inappropriate concert behavior such as talking,

causing any kind of distraction during a performance, and tardiness to pre-concert rehearsal, etc.

d. Students should not miss concerts except for severe sickness or extreme family emergencies.

e. In the case of sickness or family emergency, students will need to contact the choir director as soon as possible.

2. Making up a concert grade: a. Students must bring a note from home explaining the concert absence within

1 week of the concert date. If the choir director excuses the absence from the concert the student will receive a grade of 70 in lieu of one concert grade. Students who do not bring a written excuse by the deadline will receive one grade of “0” which may result in a failing grade for the grading period. Forgetting about the concert, not having a ride, or work etc. will not be considered excused and will result in a grade of “0”. ** Remember that Concerts are a part of the curriculum and as such are graded in the same way as an exam in any other class.**

b. An alternate assignment will be given to any student who misses a performance. Students who complete the alternate assignment within 1 week of the concert date will receive one grade up to 100% in lieu of one concert grade. This grade depends on the quality of the missed concert assignment and if it was turned in on time.

3. Section/Rehearsal Grade: a. Students in each choir class spend time in sectionals and rehearsals. Sectionals

and rehearsals happen during the regular class period, before or after school and on or before concert days.

b. Grades will be based on participation, attitude, and contribution to sectional rehearsal.

c. Making up a Rehearsal Grade: (see item #2 under “Participation Grade”) 4. Oral Work:

a. Oral work includes individual or small group singing or sight-reading tests and participation

b. Making up a small group singing test or sight-reading test: (see item #2 under “Participation Grade”)

Written Work – 10%

1. This includes: a. score preparation b. worksheets c. homework d. papers e. quizzes and tests

2. Making-up or retaking written work assignments: (See #2 under “Participation Grade”)

Eligibility

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All LISD Choirs adhere to the eligibility rules and regulations as stated by TEA and LISD. Some choir activities are designated as extra-curricular. Students participating in these activities are governed by eligibility requirements. A student shall be suspended from participation in all extra- curricular activities sponsored or sanctioned by the school district during the six week period following a grade reporting period in which the student received a grade lower than seventy in any class. Loss of eligibility does not take effect until seven days after the end of the reporting period. Ineligible students are not suspended from practice or rehearsal of extra-curricular activities. The student is not suspended from participation during the period in which school is recessed for the summer or any other vacation time.

Students may regain eligibility under certain circumstances. If a student has been suspended as a result of failing, he/she may regain eligibility by passing ALL courses in the third week of the affected grading period. Reinstatement of eligibility would occur seven days after the three week progress report period (see TEA/UIL Side by Side).

Activities that are considered curricular components of any course are not affected by the eligibility law. Examples of these activities are all rehearsals and performances that take place as a regular extension of classroom instruction. Any performance that is competitive in nature or for which admission is charged is deemed extra-curricular.

Students who receive failing grades on their report cards or progress reports may or may not be allowed to participate in non-UIL Choir activities as determined by the Choir Director and LISD Administration, in accordance with Choir policy, school district policy and UIL rules.

Uniforms

Students are expected to follow the listed uniform guidelines below, without exception. Students may not be allowed to perform and/or their grade may be affected if the following guidelines are not met.

Formal Uniforms

Women: formal length black dress, black traditional style women’s dress shoes with little or no heel, black knee-length or full-length panty hose. Sandals and extremely trendy shoes are not allowed.

Ladies must provide their own panty hose and dress shoes

Ladies must rent their dress from the VRHS choir program

See uniform sheet for more information Men: tuxedo jacket and pants, tuxedo shirt, cummerbund and bow tie, black traditional style men’s dress shoes, BLACK socks. Black athletic or casual shoes are not allowed

Men must provide their own shirt, socks, and shoes.

Tuxedos are available for rent from the choir.

Tuxedo shirts may also be for rent from the choir. (limited supply)

See uniform sheet for more information Formal Uniform Guidelines

1. Formal uniforms will be worn to all choir concerts except for those specified by the choir director.

2. Formal uniforms will be issued at designated times at the beginning of the school year. 3. Choir students are financially responsible for all parts of their formal choir uniforms that

they rent, including: dresses, jackets, pants, ties, vests and tuxedo shirts if applicable. Repair and/or replacement costs are the responsibility of the student. The cost to replace certain items will be determined by the choir director through the appropriate garment provider. Repair costs will be determined on an as needed basis.

4. Formal choir uniforms and other parts are numbered and will be tracked through the choir department.

5. Use masking tape to label your choir uniform. This will make identification much easier.

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6. Uniforms should be treated with pride. 7. Proper shoes and socks must be worn with the uniform at all times. 8. Hair must be pulled back as part of the uniform. 9. Jewelry must not be worn with choir uniforms. This includes necklaces, watches, and

bracelets. Earrings and rings must be small and inconspicuous. 10. A fee of $10.00 per year will be assessed as a rental fee for choir uniforms. This fee

includes the cost of repairs and dry-cleaning. Alterations and Care of Formal Uniforms

1. Never cut any material from a choir uniform when it is altered to fit you. 2. Hemming Uniforms

a. All choir dress hems should be 2 inches off the floor in dress shoes. b. All tuxedo pants should be hemmed at an appropriate length at the top of the dress

shoe. c. All hems must be done by hand or with a machine “hand style” stitch. d. Do not use iron-on fusing or hem tape, staples, pins or regular tape to hem your

choir uniform. 3. All choir uniforms will be turned in after the final formal concert of the year. 4. All hems and alterations must be removed before a choir uniform can be checked in. 5.

Informal Uniforms 1. The informal uniform consists of a choir t-shirt and blue jeans. 2. The choir t-shirt will be determined after the beginning of the school year. 3. Choir t-shirts are REQUIRED for all choir students. 4. Informal choir uniforms will be worn on all concert days, to all informal concerts, on choir

trips, etc. No other shirt will be permitted.

Religious Music

The policy of Leander ISD regarding the singing of religious music is as follows: “District music groups may perform or receive instruction regarding religious music as part of the secular program of instruction. The primary purpose of the inclusion of religious music in performances or instruction shall be academic, not devotional. Performances and instruction shall reflect religious diversity when appropriate.”

All-State Auditions (Texas Music Educators Association – TMEA)

The All-State Choirs are Choirs made up of the best students from all over the state of Texas. The process to get into the All-State Choir is a series of 4 auditions, each of which narrows the field down until only a few students remain. Approximately 20,000 students begin the process across the state and only 500 actually make one of 3 Choirs (Mixed, Treble, or Men). The first audition is District auditions, followed by Region, Pre-Area, and Area auditions. The students in our Region (Region 26) come from school districts such as: Leander, Georgetown, Round Rock, Taylor, Lake Travis, Burnet, Marble Falls, Elgin, and others. Participation in the All-State process is voluntary but is strongly encouraged for students in all classes who wish to be placed in a higher level Choir the following year.

At each audition, portions of the required songs are auditioned by every student from every school district. The students audition for a judging panel (hidden behind a screen) of 5 judges. The audition takes about 2 minutes. Each student receives a score for their audition and the highest ranked students in each voice part are selected to go on to the next round of auditions. For each audition the students learn new, required songs. These auditions are held at schools in one of the Region’s school districts until the Area level.

Participation in the All-State process is not required but highly encouraged for students in all grade levels. Since it is considered extra-curricular by the state, students MUST be ELIGIBLE to

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participate in the audition process. For specific requirements refer to the TMEA Auditions Contract to be signed and returned at the mandatory All-State Auditions meeting the first week of school.

Private Lessons

Private voice instruction is available through voice teachers in the Choir department. Voice lessons allow students to receive individualized instruction. While not required, students in advanced choirs are strongly encouraged to take private lessons. Students interested in moving into advanced choirs in the future should also consider voice lessons. Students interested in competitions or personal improvement would also benefit greatly from one-on-one vocal instruction. Any student is welcome to sign up for voice lessons, regardless of choir, level, or ability.

Voice lesson information will be given with the Choir Registration Packet and can be found at http://classroom.leanderisd.org/webs/vrhs.choir/home.htm.

The VRHS Choir screens its voice teachers and allows only quality, experienced voice instructors to teach voice lessons on its campus.

Openings during choir class time are limited. Students will be assigned on a first-come, first-served basis depending upon when the voice lesson enrollment form is received. If all voice lesson slots are filled, students can take lessons during their off period, lunch, before, or after school, will be placed on a waiting list until there is an opening or until additional qualified voice instructors can be hired.

Preference will be given to those students who have taken voice lessons in previous years or over the summer with a VRHS Voice Instructor and who wish to continue with their current teacher.

Voice students are required to participate in UIL Solo/Ensemble contest in February/March, the Pre-UIL recital, and one recital each semester.

Cost for voice lessons is determined by the Fine Arts Office and can be found in the Voice Lesson Information Packet. Students at VRHS receive one, 30 minute lesson per week during their Choir class or other pre-arranged time.

Grants are available for those students with financial need and an interest in private instruction. Applications for grants are available from the Choir Director.

Missed lessons will be charged to the student unless the teacher is notified 24 hours in advance. Voice Instructor contact information can be found on the VRHS Choir website at http://classroom.leanderisd.org/webs/vrhs.choir/home.htm.

Lessons may only be terminated in writing by notifying both the teacher and the Choir Director. This should only be done at the end of the semester.

Letter Jackets Points Activity

2 Each year of satisfactory choir membership 1 Being eligible for entire 6 week grading period 3 Participating in summer choir camp 2 Major VRHS concert performances 1 Short performances (specified by director) 5 Participating in VRHS Choir special performances (ie.

Masterworks Concert)

2 Attending a VRHS Choir special performance (ie. Masterworks Concert)

2 Having a solo or act in Spring Show 1 Recruiting a student for choir 1 Attending extra-curricular concerts (with director’s prior

Approval – concert program required) 8 Auditioning for District Choir

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2 Being chosen for District Choir 5 Auditioning for Region Choir 6 Performing in the Region Choir Clinic and Concert 5 Auditioning for Pre-Area Choir 2 Being chosen for Pre-Area Alternate 6 Auditioning for Area 2 Chosen as an Alternate to Area 3 Performing with TMEA All-State Choir 6 Participating in UIL Solo & Ensemble 2 Making a “1” on a Solo or Ensemble 4 Participating in STATE Solo & Ensemble -5 Unexcused absence from a performance -3 Unexcused absence from a called rehearsal

TOTAL POINTS REQUIRED: 45

A Student must be in the VRHS Choir at least 2 consecutive years before they can earn a letter jacket

A student may be deemed ineligible by the Choir Director to earn a letter regardless of the accumulation of points if rules of Vista Ridge High School and LISD are ignored or violated.

At the end of 3 years in choir, the director may award a letter jacket to a student who has not accumulated a total of 45 points, based on the past years’ participation, attitude, and positive involvement in the choir program.

Students may transfer points in from a previous high school, as it applies to this system, in the determination of the director. Remember that DIRECTOR APPROVAL is required for all points given.

Point Sheets are available in the Choir room and are tracked by Student Officers. Point sheets must be turned in at the end of each semester. Points will not be awarded to students who do not fill out the appropriate point sheet.

Registration

Students have seven days after they join the VRHS Ranger Choir to turn in all required forms. The following forms are required of all students in the VRHS Choir:

Choir directory Information Form (or online completion via Charms)

Choir Permission Slip/Medical Release and copy of student’s insurance card

Choir Handbook Contract

Choir Fee Payment or Payment Schedule communicated with the choir director

Voice Lesson Application Form and Deposit (only for students who wish to take private voice lessons through the school)

CHARMS

Charms Music is a website that serves as an office assistant for the Choir Program. Through Charms we are able to maintain a large database of information and keep you informed of all your student’s transactions. Parents are able to log on to Charms to access a calendar, trip accounts, fundraising information and update student information. To access Charms go to www. Charmsmusic.com and find the Student/Parent Login. Enter “vrhschoir” in the space provided and you will be in the system. To access your student’s personal account, enter their School ID number. We hope that you will find Charms music to be helpful in keeping track of your student’s very busy schedule!

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Travel

Trip Guidelines & Conduct

Everyone travels with the group and returns with the group. Special permission to travel in some other manner may be granted.

Students must travel to events and return from events on the bus. Any student wishing to arrive or leave with his/her parent must notify a director in writing with parent signature, prior to the event. Permission will be granted or denied based on the circumstances of the occasion.

Students will not be released to anyone unless a permission note, signed by the parent, has been turned in and the student has checked out with the director or designated chaperone.

Students may never ride with other students. In addition, other students’ parents may not provide a ride unless the student brings written permission in advance from their parent/guardian.

The Choir program assumes no responsibility for personal items lost or damaged on choir trips.

Follow the instructions of the choir director, staff, bus drivers, and parent chaperones at all times. They are your legal guardians in the absence of your parents.

For the safety and security of all of our students, the director and chaperones reserve the right to check all luggage prior to or during any choir trip.

Drug, alcohol and tobacco policy: The use of these items will not be tolerated during any choir activity at home or away from school. School and local authorities will deal with any student found with these items with the same penalties as if the offense occurred during the school day. In addition, the students will be sent home immediately at the parent’s expense. Students in violation of the policy will face the penalties set forth by the school, up to and including removal from the program and all auxiliary activities.

Students are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that reflects positively on the program, school and LISD. Students must follow all Choir and LISD school rules as well as legal, ethical, and moral requests from the director or chaperones while on the trip.

Students must have all necessary forms (Medical/Travel Release) completed and on file with the choir office to travel on any trip with the choir.

Bus Conduct

The choir will frequently travel on either school buses or commercial buses. Student conduct is expected to be at the highest level on any trip.

While on the bus students will:

Remain seated at all times.

Sit properly in a forward position.

Keep the bus clear of food, drinks, and debris (At times it may be necessary to eat on the bus. Every effort should be made to keep your area clean.).

Keep all body parts inside the bus.

Headsets can only be used with permission from the director.

Remain silent when addressed by the person in charge on the bus.

Refrain from loud, boisterous talking, singing, screaming, whistling, inappropriate jokes, music players with speakers, etc.

No public displays of affection. Festival Trip

The VRHS Choir tries to take one 3-5 day choir trip per year within or outside the state of Texas.

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The Choir Director and Officers will determine the destination of the trip at the beginning of the year.

Students may participate in fundraisers to help reduce the cost of the overall trip for all the choir students or they may pay in full using personal money.

Costs associated with this trip will be determined based on location, length, activities included, mode of transportation, etc.

Students must meet all of the criteria set out in the Eligibility section of this packet in order to perform with the choir at competition during a choir trip.

The tour company will control trip refunds. The refund policy will be set out in the trip information letter given to each student when signing up for the festival trip.

Any “personal” money given towards a choir trip will be refunded based on the refund policy in the trip information letter.

Trip availability may be limited after the initial deposit deadline has passed.

Students are expected to conduct themselves in a manner that reflects positively on Vista Ridge High School and Leander ISD Students must follow all VRHS Choir rules and School rules while on School sponsored trips.

Receipts will be issued for all trip payments made that reflect the balance due.

Trip payments must be made on time so that we may pay the tour company.

Parents are invited to attend this trip. Those parents who serve as chaperones may have a reduced rate in exchange for their help.

Attendance Policy for Trips

All choir trips are optional unless otherwise specified.

Only VRHS Choir members and their parent chaperones are allowed to participate in VRHS Choir trips.

Student Drivers

LISD Board Policy requires that a student who participates in a school-sponsored trip shall be required to use transportation provided by the school to and from the event, unless one of the following exceptions is met:

1. The student’s parent makes a written request that the student be released to the parent or to another adult designated by the parent; 2. The student is traveling to or from an individual competition/performance; or 3. The student is traveling to or from activities within the boundaries of the District.

The District shall not be liable for any injuries that occur to a student using transportation that is not provided by the school.

Students are allowed to drive themselves to activities under certain circumstances as determined by the director. For example, when an activity is within LISD, often times there will not be a bus going to the event, especially when it is after hours or when it is a small group of students. Another example would be when the activity lasts a long time but the student knows their performance time in advance and only needs to be there a short portion of the entire time (like UIL Solo & Ensemble contest). Students are NOT allowed to drive themselves to group auditions and activities when there is a bus going to the activity both directions, or even one direction, unless they have a circumstance deemed reasonable by the Director. In this instance a “Personal Transportation Request” should be completed and turned in one week prior to the event. Under NO circumstances will another student be allowed to ride with this student when there is adequate transportation provided unless written consent is received from the parents of both students.

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Adult Students (Students who are 18 years old)

Students who have reached the age of 18 must still have parent signatures for Choir papers unless they have a letter from their parent on file in the Assistant Principals’ office giving them permission to sign their own papers. A copy of that letter MUST also be provided to the Choir department to be kept on file. The Choir Director reserves the right to ask for parent signatures of 18-year-old students at any time.

Students with Jobs

If a student has a job and is in choir, please keep in mind:

Having to work is not considered an excused absence from any required, graded choir activity and will result in a grade of “0”.

Students must notify employers well in advance (as required by your employer) of all required choir activities. Students may print a copy of the choir calendar or may request a letter from the choir directors to give to their employer regarding required choir activities that may interfere with work.

Student Leadership

Choir Officers meet frequently throughout the school year. They plan out social events, help organize concert logistics, form auxiliary groups to take on special tasks, and explore ways to promote VRHS Choir. They are chosen at the end of each school year. Candidates submit an application essay which is presented to the choir department (NOTE: The director makes no additions or corrections to this essay prior to showing it to the VRHS Choir community. Applicants are strongly encouraged to review their essay for correct spelling, grammar & voice before submitting). Officers are chosen via student ballot vote, evaluating each applicant based on their essay, and any additional impressions of the candidate’s level of responsibility, commitment, positive attitude, and willingness to serve. Each choir ensemble also elects a representative in the first few weeks of school to attend these meetings and contribute to the direction of VRHS Choir.

Texas Future Music Educators (TFME)

LISD has a chapter of the Texas Future Music Educators (TFME) which is a student organization formed by TMEA (Texas Music Educators Association). This organization is for students interested in music as a profession after they graduate from VRHS. Yearly dues are $15.00 and there is a requirement to attend 4 meetings per year. In addition, there are opportunities to attend music events, perform community service for their on-campus music organizations, learn from music educators currently in the field, attend a portion of the TMEA convention in February (including college night) and interact with other students across the district interested in pursuing music education as a career. See the Choir Director for details.

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Booster Club

All parents are part of the VRHS Choir Booster organization. We invite our parents to play an active role in any part of their child’s education, and the Choir Boosters are a great way to get involved. This group is now forming up. Check the VRHS Choir website for more information on what you can do to help behind the scenes.

Awards

VRHS Choir recognizes a large number of students for outstanding achievements throughout the year. The annual Spring Choir Banquet is an event where most of these awards are given.

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Vista Ridge HS Choir Handbook Contract

STUDENTS

I acknowledge that I have been given access to the 2016-2017 Vista Ridge HS handbook and calendar through the choir web page at http://classroom.leanderisd.org/webs/vrhs.choir/home.htm. I understand and accept the responsibility to access and read the handbook, all reference policies, and to abide by its contents. I understand I must attend all mandatory activities as noted on the calendar. I realize that, as a team member, it takes full cooperation, a willingness to make sacrifices, and dedication from everyone in the Choir program. I understand that if I do not abide by the policies or meet all obligations then the consequences listed will be applied to me.

Print Name

Student Signature Date

PARENTS

I acknowledge that I have been given access to the 2016-2017 Vista Ridge HS handbook and calendar through the choir web page at http://classroom.leanderisd.org/webs/vrhs.choir/home.htm and can request a paper copy of the handbook if I do not have internet access. I understand and accept the responsibility to access and read the handbook, all referenced policies, and to abide by its contents. I understand my child must attend all mandatory activities as noted on the calendar. I realize that, as a team member, it takes full cooperation, a willingness to make sacrifices, and dedication from everyone in the Choir program. I understand that if I do not abide by the policies or meet all obligations then the consequences listed will be applied to my child. I understand the choir fee includes the items stated in the choir handbook with the exception of optional choir trips. I understand that no refunds will be given on choir fees collected or due. I understand that lack of funds will not prohibit students from participation in the program.

Print Name

Parent Signature Date

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