2015-16
Handbook
For
Excellence!
Discipline
Rehearsal
Attitude
Leadership
Appearance
Relationships
Performance
A cappella
Highlander Chorale
Calamity & Classicality
Men’s Varsity & Women’s Varsity
Women’s Chorale & Women’s Select
From Your Director…………….
What a privilege to welcome each of you to the Howell High School Choir
program. We are embarking on another remarkable year in the life of this exciting
group of singers. Although this is my final year as your director, we are going to
make this the year of transition.
YOU represent a vital part of the choirs and we are glad to have YOU singing with
us this year Once again this year, we will find creative ways to connect one choir
with the others. Get to know as many individuals in your class and other choirs as
you are able. Encourage one another. A positive word to others in your class will
carry more influence than a negative attitude. Smiles create echoes. Maintain a
positive attitude daily.
Leadership will continue to be an important focus in each choir. Let your actions
identify you as a leader. Demonstrate your dedication to excellence in each
rehearsal and performance. Be an enthusiastic participant. Your enthusiasm will be
contagious. Bring that attitude to each rehearsal. REMEMBER, leadership is not
an elected position, it is the underlying attitude that leads to the success of your
ensemble.
We need to constantly work to be the best we can be. To earn a reputation of
excellence, we must exhibit excellence in the classroom and in performance. I know
our students are all about winning and being the best. Success can only be achieved
if we, as a total program, from our youngest to our most experienced ensemble,
strive to be winners. Develop a successful attitude to improve yourself through
discipline and musicality. You will in turn improve your ensemble, which will
reflect on the entire choral department.
Being a member of the choir program, you assume a leadership role. Here are some
important “leadership laws” from an excellent music educator:
1. People are more important than titles and positions.
2. We can’t lead until we lead ourselves.
3. A positive attitude is 90+% of leadership success.
4. We’re only worth what we give away.
5. We can only give away what we have…so keep learning!
YOU ARE A CHAMPION! YOU MUST HAVE THE DESIRE TO ACHIEVE!
BE THE EXAMPLE OF EXCELLENCE!!!
Let’s Discover the EXTRAORDINARY in the ORDINARY!
Mr. Rod Bushey
Director of Choirs
PERFORMANCE UNIFORMS
A CAPPELLA CHOIR
Green robe, matching stole with embroidered “HHS”, nylon garmet bag,
and hanger assigned to each member[$ 250.00 uniform package];
Women: *Black uniform character shoes.
Men: Dark dress slacks [navy, black, dark olive…no jeans or khakis] ;
dark dress shoes and socks [no gym shoes with white markings].
Tour Outfits: A cappella Choir sweater [$28]; [nice] black slacks, tour T-shirt
[included in the cost of tour].
WOMEN’S CHORALE
Black dress [$80.00] Used dresses may be purchased as per availability; *Black
uniform character shoes; Tour Outfits: Black L or S Sleeve T-shirt and black
pants.
WOMEN’S SELECT CHOIR
Maroon dress [$ 80.00] Used dresses may be purchased as per availability; *Black
uniform character shoes; Tour Outfits: Red L or S Sleeve T-shirt and black pants.
WOMEN’S VARSITY CHOIR
Blue robe with white stole; *Black uniform character shoes.
VARSITY MEN’S CHOIR
Black Tuxedo, provided,[you have the option to purchase $100.00]; tuxedo shirt and
bow tie must be purchased by each member [$20.00]; Black shoes and black [NOT
WHITE] socks. SHIRTS MUST BE LAUNDERED AFTER EACH WEARING.
When the Tuxedo is returned at the end of each school year, a $10 fee is requested to
cover dry cleaning. If you need to dry clean it during the year, you must cover that
cost.
HIGHLANDER CHORALE
Women: Dress [purchased by individuals, ordered by group*Black uniform
character shoes;
Men: Black tuxedo [provided]; vest, tie, shirt [purchased by individual]; black
shoes and black [not white] socks.
YOU MUST KEEP YOUR UNIFORM CLEANED AND PRESSED. Shirts MUST
be laundered following performances.
MEN MUST TURN IN TUX OR BE ASSESSED A PENALTY [$100.00 or diploma
withheld if not returned in condition received.
CALAMITY/CLASSICALITY
Individuals in the ensemble will purchase uniforms.
*Uniform Shoes: We are attempting to develop a consistency with the women’s shoes. We
would like to have the women wear closed toe, black, with a short heel. [No flip flops, spike
heels, ankle straps, etc.] Character shoes provide the most consistent styling.
EXCELLENCE
“Excellence produces excellence…This puts a tremendous responsibility
on each of us, but it also serves as a checkpoint in seeing we do not let down
our own standards. Excellence is not something which is seen on the
surface. In fact, it is something quite the opposite of this. Excellence stands
for the depth of quality by which a group came out in first place or received
a superior rating. It is not measured by trophies, ribbons, one’s best plaques,
and awards. Excellence comes from the individual and is generated
through an all-out effort. If this goal is met, then the rankings or ratings
are insignificant as they relate to personal gratification.
Excellence is not a place of arrival! We don’t “get to” excellence. It is a
process we go through each and every day. It is a point of departure as well
as the journey. It is an unending quest for personal and group achievement.
It is the day by day unending practice which is our opportunity to bring all
our gifts and talents to fruition to share with others. It is [for those who are
ready to hear this] a reflection of our expression for life!”
Tim Lautzenheiser
GRADING SYSTEM
PERFORMANCES
30%
These performances are a part of the class and are a
result of many hours of preparation. They are equal
to major tests in other classes. Circumstances such
as family emergencies, death in the family, or illness
constitute a reason for missing a performance. A
WRITTEN NOTE,
E-MAIL[busheyr@howellschools.com];
or PHONE
CALL @ [517-540-8340] from the parent or guardian is
required to explain the absence.
NEW POLICY: If a student misses a performance for
ANY reason, they will be required to spend two [2]
hours AT SCHOOL rehearsing their music, or assisting
one of the officers, [for example: Librarian, Robarian,
Publicity]
Tests
30%
Singing tests will be done in small groups on a regular
basis. Students absent will be given opportunity to
make up the test.
PARTICIPATION
40%
Choir is a TOTAL GROUP EFFORT. No one “sits on the
bench” in this class.
We all work together for a
common goal-------------------- EXCELLENCE!!!
This can
only be achieved if all are working together as a “team”
effort. Lack of participation includes: Talking; Gum
chewing; Tardiness; Lack of Materials; Disruptive
classroom behavior; and NOT BEING IN YOUR
ASSIGNED SEAT. After four offenses, your grade will
be reduced by 1/3 and for every three thereafter.
To Contact Mr. Bushey:
Phone:
Email: busheyr@howellschools.com
517-540-8340
SCHEDULE OF CHOIR CLASSES
Hour
Time
Room
First Hour
7:35-8:25
Second Hour
8:30-9:20
Third Hour
9:25-10:15
Fourth Hour
10:20-11:10 K-26
A cappella Choir
Fifth Hour
11:15-12:32 K-26
Prep/Lunch
Sixth Hour
12:37-1:27 K-26
Women’s Chorale
Seventh Hour
1:32-2:22 K-26
Varsity Women’s Choir 9-12
K-26
K-26
K-26
Class
Grades
Women’s Select
9-12
Women’s Select
9-12
Varsity Men’s Choir 9-12
10-12
10-12
“The Quality of a person’s life is in direct proportion to their
commitment to excellence, regardless of their chosen field of
endeavor.”
------Vincent T. Lombardi
“The rung of a ladder was never meant to rest upon, but only to
hold a man’s foot long enough to enable him to put the other
somewhat higher.”
-------Thomas Henry Huxley
WHO ARE
THE HOWELL HIGH SCHOOL CHOIRS???
They are students!
-Among the finest citizens in our school!!!!
-Leaders--------------------Involved---------------Caring-------------Disciplined
-MUSICIANS!!!!
-Members of an elite and prestigious program.
-Proud representatives of the Howell High School Choirs
You comprise a group of individuals who have made a choice to
be a member of this program. Make daily choices that will move
you forward musically in your ensemble.
They are Parents/Family/Friends!
These are the individuals who encourage and provide the
resource to make their son/daughter, relative, or friend
successful. This is attained through attendance at concerts,
chaperoning tours, festivals, and field trips. The strength of
family/friend support at performances and choir events is
necessary for the choir’s success.
They are the Music Staff!
Mr. Bushey and Mrs. Ives are committed to your success as an
individual and within your ensemble. If you are committed to
musical excellence, the leadership you bring to rehearsals and
performances will enhance the expertise brought by Mr. Bushey
and Mrs. Ives.
Attitude will be the characteristic that moves an
individual from mediocre to outstanding.
CHOIR OFFICERS
PRESIDENT
Each class elects a president who is their leader for the year.
They are
encouraged to elect a model student both in and away from the choir class. That person
should be someone who will represent the choir in the general school climate as an
exemplary citizen and be an individual the students respect.
VICE-PRESIDENT
This office not only operates in the absence of the president but is in charge of
most social activities of the choir. The V.P. form a committee to plan and organize
parties, picnics, hosting choirs and guests from other schools.
SECRETARY
Each class has daily attendance, concert attendance, and record keeping. The
secretary will assist the other officers where their help is needed with other tasks.
TREASURER
One of the most demanding jobs is that of treasurer. Each student is assigned an
account and when we have a fundraising project, a percentage of the profit is placed in
the account to be used to defray costs for uniforms, tour, concert tapes, etc. This position
is apprenticed to a younger student in A cappella and the treasurer with the most
experience holds a training seminar at the beginning of the year to help answer questions.
PROGRAM
This is an apprenticed position as well and is a very visible office. This person
works on a deadline for each concert and needs to be responsible to get the program to
the printer prior to concert. This is the person who is ultimately responsible for the “A
cappella Annual”.
PUBLICITY
The publicity chairpersons operate out of a committee and are in charge of
alerting the newspaper, radio station[s], bulletin boards[inside choir room and showcase],
and informing the office of needs regarding the marquee at the 10-12 campus and
Freshman campus.
ROBARIANS
This group of officers is responsible for the inventory of the robes that uniform
their choir. They make sure everyone is assigned a robe, the length is correct, and the
stoles are in good shape. This job is not elected but assigned by the director.
LIBRARIANS
With the amount of music issued, this position is overwhelming and the
responsibility of more than one person. This job is also assigned along with an
apprentice. The library is catalogued on computer and all the music boxed and filed.
“If one is to be effective, the effort to lead with honesty is the
overwhelming stamp of approval needed. Honesty is the revealing
quality of authenticity.”
-----Rod Bushey
To Contact Mr. Bushey:
Phone: 517-540-8340 E-mail:
busheyr@howellschools.com
DESCRIPTION FOR INDIVIDUAL CHOIRS
Varsity Women’s and Men’s
This is an entry level choir that performs four [4] major concerts each year and attends
Choral Festival. Students and parents will be given a performance schedule, “Calendar
of Events” to assure attendance at required performances and festivals. They will
perform a variety of literature from various historical periods and cultures while
emphasizing rehearsal and performance etiquette.
Students will learn and demonstrate mastery of skills in ear training, sight singing, and
music theory. The classes will be evaluated in one or all of these areas on a quarterly
basis.
At semester, the students will be tested individually to determine placement in the choral
program for the upcoming year. They will be notified of their placement following the
year’s final concert.
Women’s Select Choir [Grades 9-12]
This is an auditioned choir that must demonstrate the basic ability to sight read, perform
rhythm, and respond to ear training at the intermediate level. This ensemble performs
four [4] major concerts, attends Choral Festival, and participates in a two-day tour prior
to festival, as per the choir calendar. Students and parents will be given a performance
schedule, “Calendar of Events” to assure attendance at required performances and
festivals.
They will perform a variety of literature from various historical periods and
cultures.
Students will learn and demonstrate mastery of skills in ear training, sight singing, and
music theory. The class will be evaluated in one or all of these areas on a quarterly basis.
At semester, the students will be tested individually to determine placement in the choral
program for the upcoming year. They will be notified of their placement following the
year’s final concert.
Women’s Chorale [Grades 10-12
This is an auditioned choir that must demonstrate a better than average ability to sightread, perform rhythm, and respond to ear training at the intermediate-advanced level.
This ensemble performs four [4] major concerts, attends Choral Festival, and participates
in a two-day tour prior to festival. Students and parents will be given a performance
schedule, “Calendar of Events” to assure attendance at required performances and
festivals. They will perform a variety of literature from various historical periods,
cultures and genres.
Students will learn and demonstrate mastery of skills in ear training, sight singing, and
music theory. The class will be evaluated in one or all of these areas on a quarterly basis.
At semester, the students will be tested individually to determine placement in the choral
program for the upcoming year. They will be notified of their placement following the
year’s final concert.
This choir is expected to rehearse and perform at the level commensurate with the
literature and expectations of professional musicians.
A cappella Choir [Grades 10-12]
This is an auditioned choir that must demonstrate the ability to sight read with good
intonation, perform rhythm, and respond to ear training at the advanced level. This
ensemble performs four [4] major concerts, attends Choral Festival, participates in a
three-day out-of-state tour, and performs for various functions within and outside the
community. Students and parents will be given a performance schedule, “Calendar of
Events” to assure attendance at required performances and festivals.
They will
perform a variety of literature from various historical periods, cultures and genres.
Students will learn and demonstrate mastery of skills in ear training, sight singing, and
music theory. The class will be evaluated on a periodic basis. This choir is expected to
rehearse and perform at the level commensurate with the literature and expectations of
professional musicians.
Character
Loyalty
Self-Image
Relationships
Attitude
Desire
Goals
WORK
“…our rewards in life will depend on the QUALITY and
amount of the contribution WE make!”
Dennis Waitley
Be a positive influence in the success of the
Howell Choirs this year and be constantly
IN PURSUIT OF EXCELLENCE!
Rod Bushey
Director of Choirs
Howell High School
Howell High School Choirs
CALENDAR OF EVENTS
2015-16
DATE
EVENT
GROUP
TIME
_
LOCATION
August 19-20
Aca-lock-in
A cappella
HHS
September 16
Regional Honors Choir Application Deadline
October 2
Sing National Anthem
A cappella
6:45 pm
HHS FB Field
Sept 23-Oct 8
Regional Honors Choir Auditions Selected
Oct 8 midnight HHS
October 6 Tu
LACASA Candlelight Vigil
A cappella
6:30-7:30 p.
Amphitheater
October 11 Su Perform w/ Liv County Chorale
H. Chorale
2:00 p.m.
HHS Aud
October 23 Fr Workshop with Dr.Andre Thomas A cappella
All Day
CMU
October 29 Th First Impressions Concert
All Choirs
7:00 p
HHS Aud
November 20-22 Fr-Su “Cinderella”
7:00 and 2:00
HHS Aud
November 22 Su Community Thanksgiving Service A cappella
5:30-7:00
TBA
November 27 Fr “Fantasy of Lights” Parade
H. Chorale
TBA
Downtown
December 1 Tu “Young at Heart”
3 C’s
12:30-1:30
Rec. Center
December 6 Sa Regional HC/State Audition
Selected
All Day
AA Pioneer
December 10 Th MARSP/3 Fires
3 C’s
1:30-2:30
Rec. Center
December 11 Fr Benefit Concert
H. Chorale
7-9:00
Opera House
December 12 Sa Women’s Choir Holiday Tour
W. Chorale/Select 8:30-noon
TBA+Outlet
December 14 Mo Chorale Elementary Tour
H. Chorale
ALL DAY
Howell Schools
December 16-17 Fanfare for the Holidays
All Choirs
7:00
HHS Aud
December 18 Fr Holiday Assembly
Acc/3 C’s/Wind Ens 2nd Hr
HHS Aud.
January 21-23
Michigan Music Ed In-Service Conference
Grand Rapids
January 29-30 Dist IV Solo & Ensemble Festival Selected
TBA
Howell HS
February 9-10 Women’s Choir Tour
W. Chorale/Select
CMU
March 10 Th
Pre-Festival Concert
All Choirs
7:30
HHS Aud
March 18-19
State Solo & Ensemble
Selected
TBA
TBA
March 21-22
District IV Choral Festival
Select/W.Chorale Varsity Choirs
Waterford/Kettering HS
March 23
District IV Choral Festival
H Chorale/A cappella Walled Lk North HS
April 13-15
A cappella Tour
A cappella
Nashville/Vanderbilt
April 26 Tu
Collage Rehearsal
Acc/WC/3 C’s 7:00
HHS Aud
April 28 Th
Collage Concert
Acc/WC/3 C’s 7:00
HHS Aud
May 19
“An Evening at Our Place”
All Choirs
7:00
HHS Aud
May 21
Alumni Choir Rehearsal
2:00-5:00
HHS Aud
May 22
Auditorium Dedication Concert
3:00
HHS Aud
June 1 We
Choir Picnic
ALL CHOIRS 3:00-6:00
TBA
June 2
Sr/Student Recital
Selected
7:00
1st Baptist Ch
June 4 Sa
Commencement
A cappella
5:00 p.m.
MSU Breslin Ctr
June 6 Mo
Classicality Auditions
Selected
2:45-???
K-26 HHS
June 8 We
Calamity Auditions
Selected
2:45-???
K-26 HHS