MS Chorus

Middle School Chorus is an ensemble made up of of 6th & 7th grade singers. Our ensemble performs a variety of repertoire including classical music, pop, broadway, multi-cultural, folk, vocal jazz, and contemporary music. Because the children's voices are in transition, all students learn how to support their tone and expand their range by singing the soprano line and developing their ear and holding the harmony line(s) either alto or for our changing boys voices the tenor/baritone. No one exclusively sings the high line or the low line in Middle School Chorus. Developing their entire range is a priority within the group. Students also have weekly work in their solfege books. Learning to read music by identifying intervals and complex rhythmic patterns will facilitate faster learning and fluency within the discipline.

The Fieldston Middle music department is designed to help each student develop the skills required to perform and understand a diverse array of musical styles through a hands-on approach. Each student learns to collaborate in large ensembles and perform music using either an instrument or their voice. Our curriculum is not only about learning a certain skill set, but learning to work together in a diverse group toward a common long-term goal and developing respect for peers, regardless of their ability level.

We are committed to developing students who:

• understand the basic tools needed to perform music
• know how to work together toward a common goal
• understand and learn to appreciate the arts during their time at Fieldston, as well as after graduation
• are able to work well in large and small groups
• appreciate that music and the arts are essential to a complete education
• tap into their natural creativity and ingenuity in whatever field they study

Because our school is committed to artistic excellence, progressive education, and ethical learning, our instructional methods include:

• regular practice sessions for each ensemble
• sectional work in small groups
• student input in choosing material for performances
• thorough instruction in music theory
• class discussions of our music, including historical context
• a multicultural range of musical selections from a diverse array of cultures
• an expectation of self-discipline and mastery achieved through rehearsals and regular practice at home
• regular written homework