The choir is an extension of the music program that focuses on choral rehearsal techniques and performance skill development. It is an excellent tool to prepare students for all types of participation in music at the secondary level. I am excited to establish a tradition of choral excellence at Adkins. My previous children’s chorus director’s experience includes: ensembles that were named Grand Champion and Runner-Up to Grand Champion at contest numerous times, a Texas Music Educators Association Elementary Invited Honor Choir, and an ensemble that was selected as the children’s chorus in collaboration with the University of North Texas’s performance of the opera “Turandot.” No audition is required to participate in the choir. Any 4th or 5th grade student that wants to sing may join.
The choir will meet every Tuesday after school from 3:00-4:00 beginning August 23th. I will communicate any variation in the rehearsal schedule well in advance. When the 3:00 dismissal bell rings, students are to use the restroom/get a drink before rehearsal if needed, place their backpacks in the hallway outside of the music room, retrieve their choir folders and pencil, and be in the music room prepared to sing promptly at 3:05. Students are not to bring cell phones or electronic devices into rehearsal!
Guardians must arrange for their singer to be picked up promptly at 4:00. All students will be dismissed from the doors near the music room in the cafeteria drive. Walkers and bikers that need to cross will wait by the doors for me until I am able to assist them at the cross walk to ensure their safety.
Students will need to purchase an Aviator Choir shirt to wear to performances, and other various occasions throughout the year. More information on shirts will be coming soon! Students will also need to bring a small binder to be used as their choir folder, and a pencil to rehearsals. Other possible activity fees that may incur are a competition field trip in the spring (TBD). Please contact Mrs. Seale if there are financial concerns.
ATTENDANCE
It is important that all singers plan to attend every rehearsal and performance. Choir performances are a team activity. The students are accustomed to rehearsing together as a group and hearing a specific tonal blend. We also learn a large amount of repertoire that is challenging to retain in one weekly rehearsal. If your singer has more than 2 unexcused rehearsal absences in a semester they will be removed from the ensemble. If your child will be absent from rehearsal, please notify me so I know that your child is safe.
BEHAVIOR
Students are expected to have excellent behavior in all classes, during rehearsals, and at all performances.
If your child would like to commit to being in the choir this year, please return the completed information sheet to Mrs. Seale as soon as possible. Returning this sheet will also let me know to expect your child at rehearsal on Tuesday, August 24th.
I am always happy to answer any questions or discuss any concerns you may have.
Thank you,
Courtney Seale
Adkins Elementary Music/Choir
cseale@dentonisd.org