In preparation for their high school choral experience, students in the 8th-grade choir continue to focus on register development, tone, and blend. More emphasis is placed on expression, thus facilitating a more mature execution of the 3-part mixed or SAB pieces they perform. The repertoire includes pieces written in various languages and dialects.
Students continue to study music theory on a more advanced level in order to gain a deeper understanding. To this end, students engage in varying rhythmic and melodic exercises up to a sixteenth note. As a result, students become master sight readers on NYSSMA level 2/3, and are encouraged to participate in the NYSSMA Solo Festival.
In an effort to involve students in their learning, they suggest pop pieces for performance at concerts. There is a deliberate focus on community. Students engage in activities that build confidence and self-worth. In such a cooperative learning structure, students feel a sense of belonging and are empowered to be their authentic selves.
Performance Opportunities and Trips
Apart from our winter and spring concerts, choral students are afforded the following performance opportunities:
- Hommocks Middle School Musical
- Havoc (an auditioned choir that rehearses before school on Tuesdays and Thursdays)
- NYSSMA Solo Festival
- In-School Assemblies
- Other Community Performances
Concert Dress Code
BARITONES
Any combination of a white top and black bottom. An example includes but is not limited to a plain white shirt with a collar, a tie of any color, black pants with a black belt (if necessary), black shoes (no sneakers), and black socks. No exceptions, please.
SOPRANOS & ALTOS
Wear all black. An example includes but is not limited to a plain black dress, blouse/shirt with black pants or a knee-length black skirt, and black shoes (flats recommended, no sneakers). If the skirt does not pass the knee, please wear all-black leggings under the skirt. If wearing only leggings, the black top worn must be thigh-length. No exceptions, please.
Students with long hair should pull their hair back.