Choir

Bluffs Middle School Choir Syllabus (2026-2027)
Teacher: Ms. Ashley Jackson
Email: ajackson@sbps.net
Or contact me through ParentSquare

Course Overview

BMS Choir is designed to help students develop their vocal technique, musicianship, and confidence in performance. Through individual and group work, students will gain skills in singing in harmony, reading music, and performing in front of an audience. Students will also have opportunities to audition for solos and participate in concerts. These requirements all meet the Nebraska State music standards.

Course Goals & Objectives

• Vocal Technique: Learn proper breathing, tone production, and vocal health.
  
  

• Musical Skills: Develop sight-reading skills, understanding of musical notation, and rhythm.
  
  

• Teamwork: Learn the value of ensemble work through group singing and collaboration.
  
  

• Confidence: Build stage presence and confidence in solo and group performances.
  
  

• Music Literacy: Enhance knowledge of music theory and musical history.
  
  

Grading Criteria

• Daily Participation (Daily Grade): Active involvement in class activities, rehearsals, and performances.
  
  

• In-Class Assignments and Assessments (Daily Grade): In-class part tests, surveys, music quizzes, music games, skill assessments, etc.
  
  

• Performances (Assessment Grade): Attendance and participation in concerts and school performances.
  
  

Participation Rubric (Daily Participation – Worth 10 Points Per Day)

• Preparedness (2 points): Have all of your provided sheet music and be ready to participate in class.
  
  

• Engagement (2 points): Actively participate in class activities, rehearsals, and discussions.
  
  

• Respectfulness (2 points): Treat classmates, teacher, and materials with respect.
  
  

• Attitude (2 points): Maintain a positive attitude, be willing to try new things, and contribute to a positive atmosphere.
  
  

• Responsibility (2 points): Arrive prepared, follow expectations, and use time appropriately to contribute to class success
  Total Points per Day: 10 points
  
  

Classroom Expectations

• Respect: Show respect for peers, the teacher, and all musical materials.
  
  

• Preparedness: Have your music and a pencil for each class. Cubbies and folders are provided. Come ready to sing and learn.
  
  

• Active Participation: Engage in all class activities, rehearsals, and performances.
  
  

• Positive Attitude: Keep an open mind, be willing to try new things, and help foster a positive atmosphere.
  
  

• Punctuality: Be on time for both class and performances.
  
  

Audition & Solo Disclaimer and Agreement

Auditions for Solos:
Solos are optional and open to all students who wish to audition. While every student is welcome to audition, not all students will be selected for a solo. The number of solos available will depend on the time available during the concert, and selections will be made based on vocal ability, preparation, and overall performance. The solo process is part of the learning experience in music, and whether or not a student is chosen for a solo does not reflect their ability or value as a member of the choir. Students who are not selected for a solo will still be involved in group performances, and other performance opportunities, such as show choir or small ensemble pieces, may be available. The success of the choir depends on every student’s contribution, regardless of whether they perform a solo.

Individual solos (solos that are not included in our choir songs) will be limited to one performance per semester. Individual solos will be available to 7th and 8th grade students only.

Solo Audition Rubric

• Vocal Ability (6 points): Clear tone, proper pitch, breath control, and vocal range.
  
  

• Preparation & Practice (6 points): Student has learned the piece thoroughly.
  
  

• Stage Presence & Confidence (4 points): Displays poise and confidence during performance.
  
  

• Expression & Musicality (3 points): Ability to convey emotion and musical phrasing.
  
  

• Timing & Rhythm (3 points): Accuracy with rhythm and timing.
  Total Points Possible: 20 points (These are not graded and is a tool for choosing solos only)

Attendance Policy & Practice Requirement

Concert Attendance is Mandatory:
Concerts are the big performance assessments at the end of each quarter, and attendance is mandatory for all choir students. Missing a concert without prior notification will result in a music-related research project assigned by Ms. Jackson. The project will be due by the end of the quarter and must be completed by the student in place of their missed performance.

• If an emergency arises, please try to contact me at least 24 hours before the concert. Emergencies will be worked with on a case-by-case basis and possibly may not require a make-up research project. I understand that life happens and I am more than willing to work with students and families. Please try your best to communicate with me beforehand and we will discuss the options for your student’s concert grade.
  
  

• If a student misses a performance and does not complete the assigned make-up assignment, they will not receive points for that performance.
  
  

• If a student does not act in an appropriate manner while attending a performance, their performance grade will reflect their behavior (see participation rubric).
  
  

• To be excused due to illness from a performance, a student must have been ill from school on the day of the performance. Illness will be worked with on a case-by-case basis, but in most cases, absence due to illness will still require a make-up assignment.
  
  

• If a student is chronically absent from class throughout the quarter, their daily grades will reflect that, and they will not be able to perform in the concert due to lack of being fully ready for the concert. They will need to complete the research project to make up partial credit.

Concert Dates (All concerts will take place at 6:00 PM)

• October 6th (@ BMS cafetorium)
  
  

• December 10th (@ BMS Cafetorium)
  
  

• March 9th (@ BMS cafetorium)
  
  

• May 4th (@ BMS cafetorium)
  
  

Everyone is invited to come watch our concerts! Help support BMS Choir by showing up for our students.

In-Class Absences

Students must notify the teacher if they will be absent. Excessive unexcused absences will affect participation grades.

Missed Rehearsals (3 Consecutive Days)

If a student misses three consecutive days of class, they are required to make up the missed practice at the teacher’s discretion. This time should be used to review music, practice vocal warm-ups, and work on any parts of the music they missed. This is essential to keeping up with the group and ensuring progress.

Materials & Supplies

• Music Folder (provided): For sheet music and handouts.
  
  

• Concert Attire (For Performances): School-appropriate formal concert attire (dresses, skirts, blouses, slacks, button-up shirts, ties (optional), formal comfortable shoes.

Cell Phone & Device Policy

• Cell phones, smart watches, and other electronic devices must be put away during class.
  
  

• First offense: The device will be taken, and the student will meet with the teacher after school to discuss appropriate usage.
  
  

• Second offense: The device will be sent to the office, and additional consequences may apply.
  
  

• In accordance with Nebraska law (LB 140), student cell phone use is restricted in schools.
  
  

Restroom Policy

• Restroom use should occur during passing time before or after class.
  
  

• If a student must leave the classroom, they must submit an eHall pass on their chromebook and get approval from their teacher.
  
  

• Only one student may leave the room at a time.
  
  

• Upon returning, students should enter and return quietly to their assigned seat without causing disruptions. Disruptions will result in losing daily participation points.

Please feel free to reach out to me with any questions or concerns throughout the school year. I’m excited to work with your student this year!