The Honors Choir is a select vocal performance ensemble. Selection is based on the student’s focus and achievement in the Mixed Chorus and an audition with the director, as well as having the appropriate voice range and quality to fit a voice part that will be available for the next school year. The focus of this organization is for each member to achieve a level of musicianship and singing ability above and beyond the high school level of choral literature. The students will concentrate on A cappella and accompanied selections from a variety of musical styles, which are intricately arranged. Membership in this choir may lead to scholarship money for graduating students who elect to participate in a college or university choir, (even though they are not music majors). The Honors Choir performs in three curricular concerts per school year. These include a winter concert, a cabaret concert, and a spring concert. The concert and rehearsal requirements, as well as the grading procedure, are the same as the Mixed Chorus. The Honors Choir students are expected to attend scheduled voice lessons whenever possible to maintain the musicianship and technique essential for the group to succeed. The Honors Choir represents the Vocal Music Department through special performances during school functions and community events, as well as prestigious invitational performances in such venues as Carnegie Hall in New York City, Washington D.C., Disney, Williamsburg, etc. The three curricular concerts and rehearsals are the only required “homework” for this course. The Honors Choir students are encouraged to compete for places in PMEA District, Regional, State, All-Eastern, and National Choruses. The Honors Choir students are also eligible for special senior awards and scholarships.
Prerequisite: 1) Teacher Recommendation based on excellent past performance in chorus, including responsibility and dedication. 2) Appropriate voice range and quality to fit available open spaces. 3) Audition with the Director.