Chain of Lakes Middle School
Chorus Program Handbook
2017-2018
Dear Chorus Parents and Guardians,
Your child has elected to participate in the Chain of Lakes Middle School chorus program this year! Thank you for
your encouragement in this decision. COLMS Chorus is about community, discipline, and artistry. While many
know that participation in fine arts is directly correlated to higher testing scores, it is more important to mention that
your child will be gaining a plethora of personal, social, and basic life skills in addition to their FUN musical
training. This class is about MORE than singing songs.
Within this packet is information that explains to you and your child his/her responsibilities and opportunities as a
COLMS Chorus Member. Please read over this material as some of it requires time and effort on your part. This
is a significant amount of reading, but please do not glaze over this handbook and sign blindly. You will also
receive a calendar of events within the next few weeks, if it is not already included in this packet. Please be sure to
plan accordingly for these events so that your child does not have a conflict. Chorus is a performing art. Therefore,
performances and extra rehearsals do receive a grade. A note, email, or phone call from you is required in the event
of an emergency, and notification to me of any possible conflicts as early as possible will help to avoid potential
problems.
At various times during the year, I may need assistance with activities. If you are interested, please note your
availability on the student information form. I will then contact you about specific events. Your willingness is the key
to maintaining an outstanding chorus program, and I appreciate your help!
I realize this year will be a transition for some students since I am a different teacher. My goal is to provide your
child with the best choral music education possible. There may be some bumps as the students and I get to know one
another, and as we acclimate to a new classroom environment. As a teacher and fellow parent, I ask for your
patience and trust as we progress through the year. If you have any concerns or questions about your child or the
chorus program, please contact me directly by phone or email below. The best way to contact me is by email.
I am kindly asking all parents to please include a valid EMAIL address AND CELL phone number on the
confirmation form, so I may contact everyone any time students receive pertinent information. I will communicate
with you and your child in one of many ways: paper, email, website, text messages, and phone calls if necessary.
Please review this syllabus and sign the student info form confirming your commitment to your childs participation
in the Chain of Lakes Middle School Chorus. Your child will begin the year by receiving a quiz grade of 100% for
returning the signed form by _________________________, August _____________.
Sincerely,
Mrs. Trista Grossnicklaus
COLMS Choral Director
8700 Conroy Windemere Road
Orlando, FL 32835
(407) 909-5400 x5022264 (Phone)
(407) 909-5410 (Fax)
Page 1/8 trista.grossnicklaus@ocps.net
Course Description:
Chorus is open to all students at Chain of Lakes Middle School. Students are enrolled in Beginning, Intermediate,
Mens, Advanced and/or Show Choir based on level of music experience and completed audition.
All students will focus on healthy vocal technique, fundamentals of music theory, history, sight-singing, and the
rehearsal of music. Students will have the opportunity to sing as a soloist and as a group; sing in multiple parts and
maintain harmonies; read, write, and analyze music; analyze text and poetry to discern meaning, both direct and
implied; and sing a variety of musical styles and genres of music. In addition, students will learn the science behind
the vocal mechanism and vocal production, trace American history through American music, and study how music
impacts and reflects culture and history around the world. Most importantly, students will develop self-discipline,
responsibility, and learn to work cooperatively. The most successful chorus students strive for "excellence" both as
individuals and as an ensemble.
A Note about Choral Literature
Students will be exposed to a wide variety of music, including sacred, secular, multicultural, jazz, pop, and Broadway. This is part
of their overall experience with music. Performance or rehearsal of certain literature is not a promotion of its content. Our
program supports students and families with religious obligations, but encourages all to participate to the best of their ability.
Chorus Fee, Supplies & Materials
All chorus students need to pay the music fee for their specific ensemble. This fee covers sheet music, some class
materials, chorus t-shirt, and uniform rental (depending on the class). Students will be provided with a folder for class.
Music Fees can be paid with cash or check, or preferably through the SchoolPay system.
All student music fees for chorus are due by October 13th.
Beginning and Mens Chorus - $20.00 Music Fee
Intermediate and Advanced Chorus - $25.00 Music Fee
Behavior Expectations:
Students are expected to exhibit self-discipline and a sense of pride as a member of the chorus department. Each
member represents the choral program, as well as Chain of Lakes Middle School and should behave accordingly-- in
school and out. Students are expected to be respectful to students, teachers, parents, and/or any adult who may be
placed in charge.
- Any student who exhibits excessive or severe misbehavior, whether during class, at a performance, or while at an
off-campus chorus-sponsored activity, may be disciplined in one or more of the following ways:
Removal from activity Parent Conference
Removal from room Discipline referral
Private Counsel Suspension from chorus event
Parent Phone Call
+ Any student who exhibits outstanding behavior, whether during class, at a performance, or while at an off-campus
chorus-sponsored activity, may be acknowledged and rewarded in one or more of the following ways:
Positive recognition Great character
Positive phone call home Enhanced leadership opportunities
Extended trust and respect Overall feeling of pride & accomplishment
Special privileges
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Chorus Uniforms
Each ensemble will have its own uniform which will result in a professional look for everyone. All chorus students
will be required to wear the designated chorus uniform to concerts and other performances as directed. Uniform pieces
marked with an * will be provided by the school, as part of the music fee. All uniform items must meet COLMS and
Orange County dress code.
Beginning & Mens Chorus Intermediate, Advanced, & Show Choir
-Chorus t-shirt* -Chorus t-shirt*
-Black dress pants (no jeans, capris, leggings, athletic -Long black dresses for girls*
pants, yoga pants, or pajamas) -Tuxedo shirt, bow tie, cummerbund for boys*
-100% Black shoes/sneakers/flats -Black dress pants (boys only, see left)
-Belt, if necessary -100% Black dress shoes/sneakers/flats
-Students with shoulder length or longer hair will be -Appropriate hair style with no obstruction to the face.
asked to tie their hair back for performances. -No distracting jewelry, makeup, or fragrance
-No distracting jewelry, makeup, or fragrance -Show choir may modify uniform as needed with
clothes from home, depending on the performance.
Grading Policy:
As a performance-based class, a percentage of your grade is earned for participation in performances. Students must
be responsible about informing their parents and attendance at concerts due to the big impact these events have on
their grade. *Please note that the percentages have changed from previous years.*
30% Performances & After School Rehearsals
In order to receive full credit for concerts & after school rehearsals, each student must:
1. Attend the scheduled event.
2. Arrive at the scheduled call time.
3. Wear the appropriate uniform.
4. Follow the code of conduct.
5. Use proper concert etiquette when watching others perform.
20% Quizzes & Class Work
This category includes written tests, performance tests, sight-reading, part-singing, music literacy, music
appreciation, music analysis, and more. Students are responsible for keeping their chorus folder updated by
checking with other students and the director about missed work.
50% Class Rehearsal & Skill Building
Students earn a weekly grade based on their attitude and effort in class.
The following are ways to earn an A:
Always arrive on time.
Participate (sing!) consistently and actively.
Listen constantly.
Always have required materials.
Always use singing posture when appropriate.
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**IMPORTANT**
Performance Attendance:
Chorus is a performing arts program and concerts and rehearsals are a key component in every students grade. Chorus
is made up of a team of people working together and depending on each other, therefore, students are expected to
attend all performances. All performance dates are provided early in the year so that families can avoid scheduling
any conflicting appointments or trips around those dates. Parents and students should take the time to mark them
down in their calendars.
In order for a rehearsal or performance to be considered excused, any and all conflicts should be brought to the
director's attention before the performance in a timely manner, via note, email, or phone call.
Please do not wait until the week of a performance, or afterwards, to make contact.
Please refer to the performance calendar before planning trips, appointments, or other types of events.
Students put a great deal of time and work into their performances and every student is vital to the group's success;
therefore, it is very important that every person be in attendance.
Lastly, it is understandable that students are involved in other activities outside of school. Flexibility, compromise,
and communication should be exercised with both parties.
After School Rehearsals:
During the school year, it will be necessary to host some rehearsal time after the school day. These rehearsals usually
take place closer to a performance, and for one or more of the following reasons:
Rehearsal with a piano accompanist or other accompanying musician
Rehearsal with a choral clinician
Rehearsal with collaborative groups, such as choirs from Dr. Phillips High or Olympia High
Joint rehearsal between different class periods
Extra preparation for a special performance
Due to conflicts with other activities both inside and outside COLMS, these after school rehearsals are kept to a
minimum. Once a rehearsal schedule has been determined, parents and students will receive notice from the director.
Similar to performances, after-school rehearsals do count towards the students grade in class. As stated before,
conflicts with rehearsals should be brought the directors attention in a timely manner. Flexibility, compromise, and
communication are key for everyone involved.
How to Make Up a Performance or Rehearsal:
There is no way to make up the experience if a concert or rehearsal are missed. If contact is not made in time with the
director, the absence will be considered unexcused and the student will not earn points for that event.
If sufficient contact is made with the director, students may request and complete a makeup assignment at the
discretion of the director. Upon completion of this assignment, the student will receive points based on the quality of
their work. Please note that both the assignment and a signed excuse note must be received in order for ANY points
to be awarded.
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Parent Volunteer Opportunities
With multiple performances and trips throughout the year, we have a big need for fantastic chaperones! In order to
be an official OCPS chaperone, you must complete the on-line Additions Volunteers application, located on the
Orange County Public Schools website. Please do this ASAP, so you will be able to chaperone our events.
Go to ocps.net, look for Additions Volunteers. You must sign up every year, and click on each school at
which you wish to volunteer.
Extracurricular Activities:
Participation in the activities listed here is not required, but is greatly encouraged usually at the directors discretion.
After school study sessions and/or rehearsals are required in most cases. Students must meet academic requirements
and are responsible for transportation and expenses associated with these events including sheet music, accompanist
tapes, accompanist fees, travel and lodging.
All-County Chorus
All-County Chorus is an audition & selection based ensemble representing choral students from Orange
County Public Schools. The rehearsals and performance for this event take place in January over 2-3 days.
Qualified students exhibit solid musicianship skills and exemplary classroom behavior.
All-State Chorus (7th and 8th grade students only):
All-State Chorus is an audition-only chorus that practices and performs in Tampa over three days in January.
In order to participate, students must pass two challenging auditions. It is recommended only for students
with solid musicianship skills. A parent chaperone is expected to accompany every student participant to
Tampa.
Solo & Ensemble (7th and 8th grade students only):
This event is for students interested in being adjudicated as a soloist or as part of a small ensemble. Students
must choose music from an approved list with their director. A piano performance category is also available.
Fundraising:
All students are encouraged to participate in the chorus fundraiser because all fundraiser money benefits chorus
students. Students are not required to participate, but those who do may be rewarded. The funds we raise are used to
pay for things such as music, bus transportation, uniforms, accompanists, awards, hospitality, MPA fees, clinician
fees, and more In particular, our fundraisers are used to pay for our inventory of chorus uniforms which we then
loan out to the chorus students. Information regarding fundraisers will be sent home as soon as it is available.
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COLMS Chorus Calendar 2017-2018
Students Date Event
August 24,31
Select Students September 7,14,21 All-State Tutoring, 4-5pm
October 5,12,19
September 4th Labor Day- NO SCHOOL
Select Students September 23rd All-State Audition #1, Evans HS, 9am
September 26th Open House
October 13th End of 1st Quarter
October 14th Teacher Work Day- NO SCHOOL
A October 19th Bridge Concert, Olympia HS
Select Students October 21st All-State Audition #2, Boone HS
November 20-24th FALL BREAK
B,M,I,A,S December 7th Winter Concert
December 21st End of 2nd Quarter
December 22nd Teacher Work Day- NO SCHOOL
December 25- WINTER BREAK
Jan 5th
Select Students January 11-13th FMEA Conference/All-State Performance,
Tampa Convention Center
January 15th Martin Luther King Jr.- NO SCHOOL
Select Students January 18-20th All-County Chorus
Select Students February 2-3rd Solo & Ensemble, Dr. Phillips HS
February 19th Presidents Day- NO SCHOOL
S February 20-22nd Musical Auditions, 4:15-6pm
B,M,I,A,S March 6th Pre-MPA Concert
A March 12-14th Music Performance Assessment (MPA), Apopka HS
March 15th End of 3rd Quarter
March 16th Teacher Work Day NO SCHOOL
March 19-23rd SPRING BREAK
S May 3rd *Musical Dress Rehearsal, 4:15-7:00pm
S May 7th *Musical Dress Rehearsal, 4:15-7:00pm
S May 8-10th Musical Performances, 6:30-8:30pm
B,M,I,A,S May 15th Spring Concert
May 28th Memorial Day NO SCHOOL
May 30th End of 4th Quarter/Last Day for Students
B = Beginning Chorus M = Mens Chorus
I = Intermediate Chorus A = Advanced Chorus S = Show Choir
*Students involved with the musical will be required to participate in additional
after school rehearsals not listed here. Information will be released later in the year.
Events marked in BOLD are the main performances of the year.
Events marked in ITALICS are school related for your reference.
There may be some additional performances during the year.
Students and parents will be given advanced notice of these
events once the director has confirmation.
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Chain of Lakes Middle School Chorus Department
PA R E N T / S T U D E N T H A N D B O O K
C O N F I R M AT I O N F O R M
Due
Friday, 2017-2018
This is worth
August 25th
To be signed by parent and student! a 100% quiz
grade!
PLEASE SIGN AND RETURN THIS PAGE
This signed and dated form will be kept on file in the chorus office. The intent of this form is to verify that
chorus parents and students understand and agree with what is involved with membership in the Chain of
Lakes Middle School Chorus Program.
"I have read the CHAIN OF LAKES MIDDLE SCHOOL CHORUS HANDBOOK including
the grading policy with my child and we understand our responsibilities in developing a successful
chorus program and in earning a positive grade in this class."
I understand that my child will be expected to perform in uniform and I will provide him/her with
the appropriate clothing materials.
I understand the music fee associated with my childs class and that it is due before October 13th
via cash, check or SchoolPay.
I have taken the time to mark down the chorus concert dates. I understand that if there are any
conflicts I must provide Mrs. G with notice at least 2 weeks in advance.
Thank you for joining the Chain of Lakes Middle School Chorus Program!
__________________________________________ _____________ _____________
Student Name (Please Print) Grade Chorus Period
T-Shirt Size: Youth Large Small Medium Large XL XXL
Parent A: Parent B:
Name: ___________________________________________ Name: ___________________________________________
Phone: ________________________________________ Phone: ________________________________________
I may be available to assist with the following: I may be available to assist with the following:
Fundraisers Field Trips Social Activities Fundraisers Field Trips Social Activities
Rehearsals Community Outreach Pictures Rehearsals Community Outreach Pictures
I am a business owner and/or know a business who would I am a business owner and/or know a business who would
be interested in sponsoring the chorus program: be interested in sponsoring the chorus program:
Yes No Yes No
Email cccccccccccccccccccccccc
____________________________________ ____________________
Parent Signature Date
____________________________________ ____________________
Student Signature Date
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COLMS CHORUS SPONSOR FORM
This form is to be completed by individuals, families, or businesses who wish to become
chorus sponsors. All Chorus sponsors receive advertising in all of our chorus programs.
Chorus friends and families who own/manage a business or have a professional service to
provide may become sponsors themselves, and share this information with those
community members and businesses who also may be interested. This form may be
duplicated, or more forms may be obtained contacting Mrs. G @ 909-5400 x5022264
Sponsor contributions will be used primarily for our biggest expenses which include
transportation to and from various community performances and festivals, uniforms, and
for the chorus awards banquet at the end of the school year.
Names of all sponsors will be included in all chorus programs:
APPLAUSE BRAVO OVATION ENCORE
$10-$25 $25-$50 $50-$100 $100 +
Name of Sponsor______________________________________________________
Name as you wish it to appear in program___________________________________
Sponsor mailing address ________________________________________________
Sponsor contribution amount: (please check one, and fill in amount)
_______ Applause $___________
_______ Bravo $___________
_______ Ovation $___________
_______ Encore $___________
FEEL FREE TO INCLUDE A LOGO OR BUSINESS CARD YOU WOULD LIKE TO
HAVE INCLUDED IN THE PROGRAM
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