Choirs
- Each session will include exposure to proper use of the singing voice, understanding notes and rhythms, and playing games and activities. The focus will be on teaching children that singing is fun, worthwhile, and important to God. Continued advancement in music skills, vocal production, performance skills, and music appreciation will be explored throughout the year. There will be emphasis on spiritual and character development as well, teaching children to develop self-control, excellent classroom behavior, and consideration of other choir members.
Rehearsals every other week - alternating weeks with Guys Ensemble
- Girls Ensemble will include extensive vocal pedagogy, harmony, ear training, advanced music skills, as well as many of the components of private voice study Auditions will be held for new members early in each session, during regular rehearsal time. The audition will be simple and students do not need to prepare music to present at the audition. Occasional assessments will occur to enable the director to work with small groups and offer individual instruction.
Requires a fully changed voice - young men can attend the first rehearsal for vocal assessment if unsure.
Rehearsals every other week - alternating with Girls Ensemble
- Guys Ensemble will include extensive vocal pedagogy and advanced music skills. A simple group audition will occur at the first rehearsal to make sure guys' voices will fit for the Guys Ensemble.
- Concert Choir will include sight-singing exercises, more advanced music skills, understanding rhythm and pitch notation, choral interpretation, music appreciation, and vocal production. Advanced musicians will be challenged and encouraged, while less-experienced musicians are also welcome.
Age Groups
The age ranges for each choir are approximate, depending on the director's discretion and the student's "vocal age". Important notes about age groups -
For boys:
Boys in the middle school age range could join either choir, depending on their voice change. On average, boys' voices will begin to change roughly between the ages of 12 and 15. This is a natural part of vocal development and it is not a demotion for boys to stay in the choir that is appropriate for their individual level of vocal development. The choir director will work carefully with each young man to determine his vocal range, and to place him in the choir that will provide the best singing opportunities and most optimum vocal development.
For girls:
Girls at least 13 years of age may join the older choir or choirs, but it could often be best for 7th grade girls to sing with the Treble Choir, especially if they are showing few or no signs of puberty. A middle school girl participating with the older groups too soon could possibly stress her vocal development. If in doubt, please contact the director. 7th & 8th grade girls in the older choir or choirs are also urged to participate with the Treble Choir as assistants. There is no additional charge for this.
Rehearsals held Wednesday afternoons at Grace Church Elizabethtown
2:15 - 3:05 Girls Ensemble
3:10 - 4:10 Concert Choir
4:15 - 5:05 Treble Choir
Schedule is subject to change.
