Choir Syllabus

Instructor Information

Name:   Mr. Brian Cocke

E-mail: cocke001@bama.ua.edu

Phone:   (205) 752-9726

Required Materials

      Bring to class each day

            Pencil (in working order)

            Paper

            Assigned Sheet Music

Course Description & General Objectives

Chorus is a performing ensemble, open to all students by audition.  The course will cover a variety of styles of literature and performance techniques as well as the 9 National Content Standards for Music:  1) Singing, alone and with others, a varied repertoire of music; 2) Performing on instruments, alone and with others, a varied repertoire of music; 3) Improvising melodies, variations, and accompaniments; 4) Composing and arranging music within specified guidelines; 5) Reading and notating music; 6) Listening to, analyzing, and describing music; 7) Evaluating music and music performances; 8) Understanding relationships between music, the other arts, and disciplines outside the arts; 9) Understanding music in relation to history and culture.

Extra Rehearsals and Performance Policy

Chorus is a performing ensemble.  When rehearsals and/or performances are scheduled outside of regular rehearsal hours, advance notice will be given and attendance will be required.  Any student who misses a dress rehearsal or performance risks receiving a failing grade for the semester.

Make-Up Policy

It is the student’s responsibility to inform the instructor in advance if a class is to be missed.  Assignments, quizzes and tests will be made up at the digression and convenience of the instructor when accompanied with a legitimate excuse.

Academic Misconduct Policy

Acts of dishonesty including, but not limited to, plagiarism or cheating, in any work of this class constitutes academic misconduct and will not be tolerated.  Suspected cases will result in a conference with the teacher to determine further actions, such as carrying out the official TCHS Academic Misconduct Policy.

Accommodation Policy

In compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act, it is the policy of the Tuscaloosa County Board of Education to make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities.  To request disability accommodations contact _________________________.  After initial arrangements are made with that office, contact this instructor to discuss your request.

Specific Course Requirements

The following list is the requirements for the completion of this course, the amount of points they are worth and a brief description for each.

1.   Attendance.... 10

A total of 5 absences are permitted regardless of reason.  Each tardy or early departure from class over 3 minutes without written excuse will be counted as 1/4 of an absence (i.e. 4 tardies = 1 absence).  2 points for each absence after over five will be deducted from this portion of the grade.

2.   Participation & Cooperation  35

Participation and cooperation in daily rehearsals, performances, group work, etc. is an important aspect of this class.  Failure to do so, working on assignments for other classes, sleeping, or doing other non-class related activities is not permitted.  A warning will be given, then 5 points per class will be deducted from this portion of the grade.

4.   In-Class Assignments 10

In-class assignments will be given periodically throughout the semester as a means of enhancing learning and enriching the choral experience.

5.   Assessment Quizzes 15

Assessment quizzes will be given periodically throughout the semester on information presented in class to check each student’s progress.  These quizzes will serve as study guides for the evaluation tests giving examples of the type of questions that will be used.  These quizzes are competency based and can be retaken to improve the score.

6.   Evaluation Tests      20

Evaluation tests will be given periodically throughout the semester.  These will cover material presented on quizzes, homework, handouts, in class activities, as well as information presented orally.

7.   Concert Attendance & Reports 5

Each student is required to attend a minimum of one choral-related concert per semester sponsored by local high schools, junior colleges, universities, or other pre-approved events.  A concert program and/or ticket stub should be submitted along with a (minimum) half-page report (typed, double spaced, 1 inch margins, 12 pt. font) telling about the event including what took place and your feelings and opinions.

8.   Professionalism, Attitude & Respect 5

This part of the grade is totally subjective on the part of the instructor.  Each student should behave in a descent, professional manner, with a good attitude and treat others decently with respect, regardless of their similarities or differences. 

Total Possible Points 100

Grade Computation

Grades, totaled from the list above, are computed as follows:

Tentative Schedule

The following list is a tentative schedule of class discussions, homework, quizzes, tests and other important due dates. 

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        May 1:

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Repertory List

First Block

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Second Block

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Third Block     

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