I am so excited for the new school year and to be a part of the Wydown family. In
this syllabus you will find classroom policies, important choir dates, the grading
policy, the top ten best singing practices, the best communication methods for the
year, the concert uniform information and order form, and the parent information
and acknowledgement page.
During their time in choir, students will learn how to read and write music. Sightreading (learning to sing music on sight) is also an aspect of the class. Students will
study and perform music from the various stylistic periods of music history
(including sacred/secular music from the medieval era to the present), music
composed by recognized master composers, and music from other world cultures.
Please do not hesitate to contact me with any questions our concerns. Almost all
information can be found on the website as well. On the website you will find
additional details including an updated calendar, practice tracks, extra singing
opportunities, and additional learning games links.
As choir begins:
1) Be on time and bring a pencil
2) Be in your assigned seat on time
3) Have your music folder
During class:
1) Respect your rights and the rights of others to learn
2) Give your best effort
3) Listen
4) Follow directions the first time
5) Mark your music when instructed (PENCIL ONLY)
6) Maintain good body position while singing
7) No candy or gum during class or in the classroom
8) SING OUT!
9) Refrain from teasing or mocking other students
At the end of class:
1) Pick up around your area
2) Put your folder in its designated place
3) Help someone else if it is needed
Friday, October 23rd-Choir Polo Shirt Order forms due
Friday, November 20th-Day of Choirs
Tuesday, December 8th-Winter Choir Concert
Saturday, May 7th-Holiday World Trip (8th Grade Choir Students)
Wednesday, May11th- Spring Choir Concert
Monday, May 23rd-Wydown All-School Concert
*Several other dates and opportunities may arise and you will be notified ahead of
time before that event.
Students will not be asked to compete against one another for a grade. Evaluations
will be based on effort/improvement, music literacy test and quizzes, writing
assignments, singing tests, and any special projects assigned. If a student is aware of
a planned absence, work should be turned in prior to the absence. If there are other
factors that involve a student turning in late work, please contact me. Parents are
encouraged to consult the teacher at any time in regard to their child’s progress.
Students will be expected to perform at your best and interact respectfully with
your classmates and teacher. Just as your grade will be positively influenced by
positive behavior it will also be negatively influenced by negative behavior. We are
not only learning how to sing well but also how to work cooperatively, persevere
through difficulty, and develop a strong work ethic. Expected behaviors are energy
during rehearsal, participation in class discussion, support for your fellow singers,
and daily effort.
The areas of instruction for this class include: Music Literacy (theory and aural
skills), vocal technique, music history and culture, ensemble skills, and a cultivation
of an aesthetic appreciation of the art form.
Grades will be distributed in the following manner.
Daily Participation-40%
Written Work/Assignments-30%
Exams/Concerts-30%
You must earn the privilege of performing at our concerts and festivals. To
participate in any performance opportunity you must have a B- or higher in choir as
well acceptable grades in your other classes. You also must have shown positive
citizenship in the choir room as well as your other classes and activities. If you have
any questions about your eligibility please check with Mr. Mueller prior to the
performance. As Choral Director, Mr. Mueller will make all decisions about student
eligibility.
All students will be required to have solid black dress shoes, black socks, black dress
pants, a black belt, the Wydown Choir polo that will be worn at all performances.
This is the exact same shirt as last year, so if you already have one, please check to
make sure you still have it.
It is of utmost importance that the parents and students have viable means of
communication with the choral director. Listed below are means for
parents/students to contact me.
Email-gregorymueller@claytonschools.net
Phone Number-314-854-6485
If you are ever unsure or have questions about any choir detail, important
information is listed in the following places:
*The original choral calendar in the syllabus
*The online updated school calendar
*The choir webpage located on the Wydown School website (you can click on Staff
and then go to Gregory Mueller)
*Your email-You will receive an email for every reminder sent home
Remind101 is a great tool I will also offer. If you would like to receive a text
message as a reminder for upcoming deadlines please include your phone number
below. These are one-way texts only. Normal charges apply.
Phone Number ______________________________________________________________________
Phone Number ______________________________________________________________________
Phone Number_______________________________________________________________________
Phone Number ______________________________________________________________________
Student Name______________________________________________Hour___________Grade___________
Parent/Guardian Name/s ___________________________________________________________________
Best Daytime Phone Number _______________________________________________________________
Best Evening Phone Number _______________________________________________________________
Best Email/s (will be used for every reminder that is sent home)
I (we) can assist in the following ways
__________ Chaperoning Choir Events
__________ Medical assistance on trips (LPN, RN, or MD)
__________Organizing and supervising fund raising events
__________Any instrumental skill, and if so, what instrument _____________________________
__________ Connection to a Community Performance Opportunity
__________ Connection to a Community Service Opportunity
By signing below you acknowledge that you have read, understand, and will comply
with the choir syllabus and expectations.
Please return no later than Friday, August 21st, 2015.
Student Name (Print Neatly) _______________________________________________________________
Student Signature ___________________________________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian Signature _________________________________________________________________