Vocal Music

TENOR AND BASS CHOIR
1 FA Credit       Grades 9, 10, 11, 12

Course Overview:
This is a non-audition course for all singers in this vocal range beginning their choral experience in high school. Emphasis will be on fundamentals of singing, breath support, sight reading, good vowel formation, and diction. A variety of music styles will be experienced and singing in parts will be emphasized. Unaccompanied singing will also be experienced. Throughout the school year, performances at concerts, civic functions, festivals, and invitational appearances will be experienced and expected.

General Comments: Special attention is given to the changing voice as students mature . Efforts are made to assist that process and to keep them singing, learning and INVOLVED regardless of where their  voice may be in this process. Some expense for clothing is involved.  This course may be repeated for credit.

Special Requirements:   May be repeated if additional fundamental work is required before placement into Concert Choir.  Attendance at all calendared (including evening) performances/events is academically required.  

NO AFTER SCHOOL REHEARSAL IS REQUIRED.

TREBLE CHOIR
1 FA Credit      Grades 9, 10, 11, 12

Course Overview:
Entry level  students in this vocal range (Soprano, Mezzo Soprano, and Alto). This ensemble will study and prepare choral music for presentation at concerts, and festivals.  There will be opportunities to sing with the Tenor/Bass Choir. There will also be opportunities for solos but solo singing is NOT required.

General Comments: This course is open to all first-year Treble singers on a non-audition basis. Activities are designed to help the student learn more about the fundamentals of singing, musicianship, creativity, sight reading and other areas of music. Attendance at all calendared (including evening) performances/events is academically required.  

NO AFTER SCHOOL REHEARSAL IS REQUIRED. This course may be repeated for credit.

ENCORE
1 FA Credit       Grades 10, 11, 12

Course Overview:
This is an advanced Treble Choir (Soprano, Mezzo Soprano, and Alto) The student will study vocal ensemble literature and techniques with an emphasis on style, performance practices and high standards of vocal ability. Literature will include madrigal, classical, jazz,musical theater ,and pop styles.

General Comments: Activities are designed to help the student learn more about the fundamentals of singing, musicianship, creativity, sight reading, choral literature, and music history. Attendance at all calendared (including evening) performances/events is academically required.  Some expenses for outfits and travel may be involved. This course may be repeated for credit.  No after school rehearsals will be required.

Special Requirements: Placement by audition. Open toTreble Voices only.

CONCERT CHOIR 
(Soprano, Mezzo Soprano, Alto, Tenor, Baritone, and Bass)
1 FA Credit      Grades 10, 11, 12

Course Overview:
The student will study advanced choral literature and techniques with emphasis on style, performance practices, and high standards of vocal ability. Throughout the school year performances in concerts, civic functions and invitational appearances will be given. The students will also compete in District and League events as well as the OSAA State Choir Championships.. There will be opportunities to travel  to compete in various festivals.

General Comments: Students will present the finest choral music of Gresham High School. Activities are designed to help the student learn more about the fundamentals of singing, musicianship, creativity, choral literature, and music history.  Some expenses for retreat, travel, and tee shirts may be involved.  Attendance at all performances, workshops, and events is academically required.  This course may be repeated for credit.

Special Requirements: Placement by audition only.

OVERTONES
(Soprano, Mezzo Soprano, Alto, Tenor, Baritone and Bass)
1 FA Credit        Grades 10, 11, 12

Course Overview:
The student will study advanced vocal ensemble literature and techniques with an emphasis on style, performance practices, and high standards of vocal ability. Literature will include madrigal, classical, jazz, and pop styles. Performances in concerts, civic functions and invitational appearances throughout the school year will be given.

General Comments: Students will present the finest vocal ensemble literature at Gresham High School. Activities are designed to help the student learn more about the fundamentals of vocal performing in an ensemble , with an emphasis on musicianship, creativity, solo singing, and choral literature. Expenses for outfits and travel may be involved.  Performance times will involve weekends and evenings. Attendance at all calendared (including evening) performances/events is academically required. This course may be repeated for credit.

Special Requirements:  Placement by audition only. Auditions will be held in May.