This course is one quarter long. In this course, students study the fundamentals of music literacy and vocal technique. Sixth grade students will also focus on developing aural analysis skills, connecting music to other disciplines, and audience etiquette. Sixth grade students will perform in a daytime showcase at the conclusion of the quarter. Offered in the Fall semester only.
This course may be taken for one semester or year-long. Chorus students continue to develop music literacy and vocal technique. Students learn to read music at sight, to sing in harmony, and to perform music from a variety of cultures and languages. Students will explore the cultural and musical background of repertoire and reflect on stage presence and professionalism. Chorus students will perform in at minimum the Fall Concert, WinterFest, Spring Concert, and SummerFest with further performance opportunities determined throughout the year.
Ms. Emma Lassiter is thrilled to be in her fourth year at West Lake! She graduated Summa Cum Laude with University Honors from the Hayes School of Music at Appalachian State University and holds a Bachelor of Music in Music Education. She holds a Masters Degree in Music Education from UNC at Greensboro. As an educator, Ms. Lassiter is invested in building meaningful relationships with her students and building community within her ensembles. She is an enthusiastic proponent of music literacy, building independent and ensemble musicianship, and exploring diverse repertoire! Ms. Lassiter is an active member of the National Association for Music Education and the American Choral Directors Association.
Performed by the eighth grade Voices of the Lake at their Fall Concert: Rise Up, November 2021
Performed by the Voices of the Lake at WinterFest, December 2021
Performed virtually by the Voices of the Lake, Spring 2020
There are plenty of studies showing the vast benefits of participation in a music ensemble, but sometimes it is even more powerful to hear it directly from the students that it impacts the most.
"My confidence has skyrocketed and I've made some of my closest friends."
"Being in choir for 6 years really showed me who I was and gave me the family of friends to help me embrace myself."
"We put all of our hard work and effort into this class and we are giving it our all. This is a very fun program and you learn about a lot."
"We are able to work together, connect, and learn from each other, even though we did not know each other at the start."