Lesson Plans for Solo/Ensemble Contest & UIL Concert/Sight-Reading Contest Prep.

Lesson Plans for UIL S & E contest 2017 & UIL Concert/Sight-Reading Contest 2017 

High School Varsity Mixed Choir & High School Jr. Varsity:

Wks. of 1/9/17 to 4/11/17

Vocalises taken from various TMEA workshops, seminars & colleagues

High School UIL S & E will be 2/3/2017  @ ETBU in Marshall, Tx.               Middle School S & E Contest will be 1/28/17 & hosted by White Oak HS Choir.

High School UIL Concert/Sight-Reading Contest will be 4/11/2017 @ Pittsburg, First Baptist Church.

Objectives:  After completing these lessons, student will be able to:

     *Read music that incorporates rhythmic patterns in simple & complex meters

( 2/4,   3/4,   4/4,   6/8)

     *Interpret music terms & markings: (A-B-A-(C) forms of music,  stress markings  (< >) , accent markings ( _ ), crescendo  <    and decrescendo     > markings, various Tempo markings ranging from Andante to Allegretto as well as poco rit. (little ritard), a tempo (back to original tempo) and accelerando (to gradually get faster) or rit. (gradually get slower),  various dynamic markings ranging from pp to ff, musical treatments of specific pitches such as tr (trill), fermata (symbol that indicates to hold a note or rest for longer than its given value) 100px-Music-fermatatenuto ( _ ) (symbol placed above or below a given note indicating that the note should receive stress and/or that its value should be slightly extended).

     * Treatment Style of sections of song or specific pitches within the music:  staccato (a short & detached style of singing),    or legato (a connected & sustained style of singing), singing with articulate consonants & open, pure vowels, singing with proper intonation (the accuracy of pitch, in-tune singing, centered-pitch singing), glissando (an effect produced by sliding from one note to another),  falsetto (the register in the male voice that extends far above their natural voice; the light upper range), melissma(a group of notes sung to a single syllable or word).

     *Proper Diction in foreign languages of liturgical Latin, Spanish, German, Russian, French, as well as our own language of  English.  Students will refer to the IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet) for pronunciation guide as well as “Phonetic Readings of Songs and Arias” that gives a ‘word-by-word’ IPA of their specific song.

     *Music Selections: Students chose their own Solo from our Prescribed Music List adopted each year by our UIL Music Committee. Classifications of Difficulty:  Class 1 – most difficult level of solo or ensemble piece & usually in a Foreign Language with Vocal Range of approx. 2 octaves or more; Class 2– medium level of difficulty of solo with some being  sung in a Foreign language; Class 3 – least difficult level of solo & usually sung in English language (typically reserved for Middle School students).  Only Class 1 Solos are allowed to advance to the State Level of contest.  Therefore all of our student’s solos are Class 1 Solos at this contest.

Student will learn to sing their solos/ensembles & Contest pcs. with more expression.  Using the dynamic markings notated within their music, and following the lyrical line of their melody, the student will be able to establish the correct Dynamic levels to be used.

Student will continue learning with understanding the use of varied music symbols and markings written in their solo & contest pcs.  After learning these fore-mentioned markings & terms the  student will be able to demonstrate these as he (she) sings his solo (individually) or contest pcs. (full ensemble).

2016-17 Calendar of Events

Middle School Choir Events

                                             2016-2017

Oct. 8 (Sat.-opt),(Gr. 7-8) J.H. All-Region Contest…Lv.6:45 am – Rtn. approx.8:30 pm…@ Mt. Pleasant HS*…$10 commitment… (if selected to choir, must commit to Region Clinic/Concert, Nov. 12, 2016 all day)

♥Nov. 12 (Sat.) (Gr. 7-8)…All-Region Clinic (8am) & Free Concert (4:30pm) @ Mt. Pleasant HS  (Req’d for All-Region Choir Members) $10 commitment (Students Lv. 6:45 am & will have rehearsal all day)…(Parents arrive early for parking & seating – full capacity is expected; also make plans to allow your child to ride home with you after concert). Prior to and following the concert there will be an opportunity to order DVDs of the concert. Plaques and T-shirts will also be available for purchase. More info to follow.

Dec. 8 (Gr. 6-8)…Christmas Concert…MS Choirs……6:30 pm-8:30 pm ……WOHS Auditorium. Full attendance is Required: This is your 9 Weeks Exam Grade……(Parents, please bring cookies & volunteer to serve.)  Concert will be followed by Refreshments.

♥Dec. 9 (Fri.)…(Gr. 6-8) Eligible students perform Christmas program @ Austin Bank (Hwy. 80), area Nursing Hms, then lunch & leisure time @ Longview Mall {I NEED PARENTS TO ASSIST WITH SUPERVISION AT THE MALL, NOON-2:15) (to be approved by our Principals & School Board of Trustees)

Dec. 12th-Jan. 5th (Gr. 7-8) Select Solo & Ensemble Contest Music during Class Time. Your selection of music & decision of commitment MUST be submitted to Director.

Jan 28 (Sat.-opt.) (Gr. 7-8) Solo & Ensemble Contest…9:00 am…possibly White Oak High School…$8 commitment

May 11 (Thurs.-Req.)…WOHS & MS Choirs Spring Concert…6:30-8:30 pm….WOHS Auditorium…Full attendance is Required: This is your  Weeks Exam Grade……(Parents please bring cookies & volunteer to serve) 

May ? (Sat.-opt.)….(Gr. 6-8) Possible Spring Music Festival in Arlington, TX. + Six Flags-Participation optional, but is strongly recommended…Need $20 Deposit Commitment by Tues., March 14 & full payment by Fri., March 31st (price incl. Six Flags Ticket + 1 meal). Full Cost of Trip is $65-$70, incl. 6 Flags tkt, 1 meal in park, shared transportation cost, and shared festival entry fee.

♥ All listed auditions are by choice, but once signed up and committed to attend, you WILL be assessed the listed entry fee if you do not attend the event.
All-Region Auditions – $10 / Solo & Ensemble $15 per event
Rehearsal CD’s cost $1/cd, and may be purchased through Ms. Hughes or Ms. Kirkland.

Keep on Refrigerator for Reference:

Mrs. Hughes’ Office Ph.(903) 291-2051                Cell (903) 918-6627

Ms. Kirkland’s Office Ph.(903) 291-2051              Cell Private

See our blog for further information: hughesr.wonecks.net
*These are tentative dates, and may change due to other circumstances. Please watch for information to be sent home

   High School Choir Events

2016 – 2017

Aug. 27th (Sat.-opt.) KC All-Region Choir Workshop. Kilgore College. Lv. 8:30 am/Rtn. 4pm. $15 registration-door.

Aug. 26th, Sept. 2nd, Sept. 16th, Oct.14th, Nov. 4th (Fri.) Football Games.On Sat., Nov. 4th possibly all Seniors sing Nat’l Anthem. Meet 7:10pm Stadium Press Box.

Sept. 1st (Thurs.) Audition for “High School Musical”…… See Flyers that we have around school for specifics..We NEED You!

Oct. 15th (Sat.-opt.) ♥All-Region Large and Small School Mixed Choirs Contest,  Lv.6:45am–Rtn. Appx.8:30pm  @Mt. Pleasant High School …$10 commitment (if selected, must commit to performing @ Region Clinic/Concert on 11/12/2016)

Nov. 3rd, 5th & 6th – “High School Musical” Production   Nov. 3rd & 5th (Thurs. & Sat. 7:30pm shows)                         Nov. 5th & 6th  (Sat. & Sun. 2:30pm shows)                                 Any HS Choir member who isn’t performing in the musical, will be responsible for working all the performances.  I will have a sign-up sheet in the Choir Rm. for duties & time. You MUST sign up, and will be credited with FR account money for your time worked.

Nov. 12th (Sat.♥)All-Region Clinic (8am) & Concert (4:30 pm) {Parents take home students following concert} Mt. Pleasant HS *$10 commitment (♥Req’d part.for All-Region Choir Members) (Students Lv. 6:45 am & rehearse all day). Parents arrive early for parking & seating:full capacity expected. Also make plans to allow your child to ride home with you after concert). Prior to and following the concert there will be an opportunity to order DVDs of the concert. Plaques and T-shirts will also be available for purchase. More info to follow.

Nov. ?  TBA (Sat.-opt)…Pre-Area Workshop ……usually $10 at door.  Interested students may have to arrange your own transportation to and from, in case no school staff attends.

Nov. 29th (Tues.)..Pre-Area Audition @ Pittsburgh HS. Leave school @ (TBA)/Rtn. (TBA).  $10 commitment… Only for those advancing from All-Region audition (if selected, must commit to auditioning @ Area Contest on Jan. 14th, 2017 & All-State participation required on Feb. 8-11, 2017)

Dec. 8th (Thurs.-Req.) All Grades… Christmas Concert…6:30 pm-8:00 pm, WOHS Auditorium.  Full attendance is Required
This is your 9 Weeks Exam Grade (Parents, please bring cookies & volunteer to serve the refreshments following our concert)

♥Dec. 9th (Fri.)… Eligible students perform Christmas program @ Austin Bank (Hwy. 80), area Nursing Hms, then lunch & leisure time @ Longview Mall {I NEED PARENTS TO ASSIST WITH SUPERVISION AT THE MALL, NOON-2:15) (to be approved by our Principals & School Board of Trustees)

Dec. 12th-13th & Jan. 2nd-5th Select Solo & Ensemble Contest Music during Class Time. Your decision of commitment to audition MUST be submitted to Director BEFORE Christmas break. Your title selection of music can be submitted by Jan. 5th (Thurs.)

Jan. 13th-14th (Fri-Sat.) Area Auditions (if advanced from Pre-Area)…Lv. Fri @9:40am/Rtn Sat.approx 9pm @TAMU-Commerce ……$10 audition commitment. Bring $$ for meals

Feb. 3rd (Fri.-opt.)♥Solo & Ensemble Contest….Time tba @ ETBU (everyone will ride the bus, unless you have another school event that you must attend.  …$15 commitment/per event

Feb.7th-12th(Tue.- Sun.)…TMEA Convention: All-State Groups Perform @ San Antonio Convention Center.  All-State Concerts are free, but require a ticket for Mixed Choir Concert. This is a required trip if you make an All-State Choir!!

April 11th (Tues.-Req.)UIL Concert & Sight-Reading Contest Time tba…@ Pittsburgh FBC…(Participation is Required, but eligibility applies) 9 Weeks Exam Grade will be given

May 11th  (Thurs.-Req.)WOHS & MS Choirs Spring Concert & Choir Senior Slideshow…6:30 pm- 8:00pm …WOHS
Auditorium…Full attendance & participation is Required…                9 Wks. Exam Grade will be given… (Parents, Please bring cookies & volunteer to serve refreshments following our concert)

May  ( ?) (Req’d)…Scholastic’s Day Assembly Performance 9am White Oak HS Aud……This is a Major Test Grade

May 28 – 31st Sun.-Wed: UIL State Solo & Ens. Contest Hendrickson HS in Pflugerville, TX… Lv. 9am on 28th/ Rtn 9:30 pm on the 31st …Hotel: tba…. $15 commitment + meals $$ (trip details to follow). If you attend this contest, and do not perform when assigned to, you will arrange for your parents to come pick you up in San Marcos, or arrange for your immediate return transportation to school, immediately upon this violation. Our District pays all of your expenses, and your responsibility is to be prepared and perform at your assigned time. If you have any questions regarding this rule, please see Mrs. Hughes BEFORE planning on attending this contest! No “free-loaders” will be allowed to accompany us.

♥ All listed auditions are by choice, but once signed up and committed to attend, you WILL be assessed the entry fee listed below, if you do not attend the event
*All-Region Auditions–$10; Solo & Ensemble $15 per event State S & E Contest $15 per event
*Rehearsal CD’s will cost $1 each, and may be purchased through Mrs. Hughes.

See our blog for further information: hughesr.wonecks.net

 

2016-2017 Choir Member Handbook

Dear Parents and Students:

 I am most excited that you have chosen choral music as a part of your continuing education at White Oak High School and White Oak Middle School. The standard of excellence has been continuously on the rise every year in choir and this coming year will certainly be no different. It is my goal, not only to develop areas of musicality within each individual, but also that each individual develop in the areas of character, loyalty, teamwork, responsibility, and respect and recognize the genius within their self. It is also my expectation that members of the choir serve as leaders and role models in our school and community. Self-discipline in the choral rehearsal is relative in comparison to behavior in our hallways, other classrooms, and in the general public.

The White Oak Choral program includes three basic areas of involvement.

  1. Daily classroom rehearsal, which takes place every day in the classroom.

  2. Performance, which is a culmination of our rehearsals and daily work.

  3. Competition, in which students have the opportunity to participate in various auditions/contests throughout the school year. (See Choir Travel)

The guidelines outlined on the following pages are designed to help bring about success in our choral program at White Oak ISD.  In complying with these guidelines you will fulfill a commitment to the Choir, our community, and a commitment to yourself to follow your dreams and discipline yourself to be the best you can be in life.

Respectfully,

Ruthie Hughes, Director

 

CHOIR PROGRAM PHILOSOPHY:

To teach an appreciation and understanding of the performing arts and how music influences and reflects history and culture

 To teach the importance of self-discipline, cooperation, loyalty and respect for others, as well as responsibility

 To create in students a desire and appreciation for excellence in the performance of any endeavor

 To teach students how to set individual goals in life, how to accomplish those goals through dedication, self-discipline and persistence, and recognize their genius

 To teach students the technical skills, within their music, which is needed for them to perform to the best of their ability

CHOIR MEMBER RESPONSIBILITY

  •  Always conduct yourself with honor and integrity, being honest and fair to all others. Do not be a part to gossiping or demeaning any other member. Do not bully any other member, or be a part to bullying any other member.  Instead, be supportive and encouraging to all others.
  • Be regular in attendance and responsibly account for all of your absences.
  • Be prepared for all rehearsals and performances and be on time.
  • Be responsible for and expect to assume the benefits or consequences of his/her actions; Horseplay, or pranks, are activities that will not be allowed or tolerated! Do not disrupt nor disturb rehearsals with inappropriate activities. Unbecoming conduct that reflects poorly upon the reputation of our school or organization, is subject to disciplinary action, upon the discretion of the teacher. If a student has been caught in the act of stealing, or choosing NOT to follow the Director’s rules while on a trip (including curfew rules), he(she) will not be allowed to attend any other school-sponsored trip with this organization for the duration of at least one following year. You will lose the privilege of travel for 1 more following year.
  •  Be personally clean, neat, and dressed appropriately in school, as well as while participating in our choral extra-curricular and co-curricular activities.
  •  Be personally responsible for all information regarding the choir, rehearsals, events, and schedules and in relaying such information to your parents and/or guardians.
  •  Cooperate with fellow choir members and share with them the responsibilities and privileges that are part of this choral program.
  •  Be responsible for the upkeep and cleaning of your uniform throughout the year, as well as the return of all assigned uniform articles at the close of this school year.
  •  Follow all classroom rules, school handbook rules, regulations, and travel instructions for trips.
  • The use of profanity by students at school or at school related functions shall not be tolerated.
  • Under state and federal law, a student is not allowed to possess, sell, give away, or use alcohol, tobacco products, or illegal drugs on school property or at a school-related or school-sanctioned activity, on or off school property. Set your standards high, and be the exemplary role model that is expected of you.
  • Be respectful and honest toward those in authority, at all times.
  • Always strive, persevere, and maintain a positive attitude toward achieving your goals as a choir member. No one is expected to be perfect….but everyone is expected to give their all!

 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Student Signature is required at the back of this handbook, for your agreement to these rules.

ELIGIBILITY:

 Choir is considered an extra-curricular course. **UIL rules require our students to follow the NO PASS, NO PLAY guidelines. Participation in competition is allowed only if the student has a passing grade (70 or above) in all courses. If ineligibility occurs, the student must regain his (her) eligibility through passing all courses by the next 3-week progress report to participate in another activity. To remain in HS Varsity Mixed Choir, this is a MUST! Every member’s participation is necessary for the success of our Varsity program.

FINES:

Fines are assessed for lost or damaged materials (classroom furniture, music, uniform items, etc.).

All fundraiser collections are due AT THE CONCLUSION of that particular fundraiser.

Fines are also assessed for the entry fees from “unattended competitions” that you had committed to attending, even if this has resulted due to ineligible grades:  if the student signs up to participate, then he (she) must be responsible for maintaining his (her) eligibility in all courses, and committed to auditioning/performing; otherwise you must reimburse the district for the cost of your entry fee.

FUNDRAISERS:

The raising of funds allows for the student’s individual financial capabilities toward attending various activities, as well as helps the student to defer the cost of their travel to participate in Music Festivals & State events.  Most of these are one-day events, but not all.

All students participating in the fundraising activities are eligible for the trips of the various choirs, although some would rather pay the full cost of the trip without fundraising.  That is totally fine. If the student desires trip participation, money will need to be collected.  It will be the student’s responsibility for collecting all fundraising money. Fundraiser accounts are on an individual basis.  Everyone must be responsible for their own merchandise and money collection. Reasons for deficit accounts are usually unacceptable (such as “I lost it”, “Someone stole it”, or “My brother ate it”). Account balances which do not have a “zero balance” at the deadline for turning in their money & merchandise, could result in denial of participation or performance privileges, and/or withheld privileges for attending such a trip.

GRADING:

Grades are based on the following criteria:

  1. Attitude & Participation: in daily class and outside classroom scheduled events.

  2. Attendance at Extra Rehearsals, as well as Attendance for our entire Concerts.

  3. No student will be allowed to “exempt” any Concert. Your Grade on a concert will be determined by your participation, behavior, and the act of observing other Choirs on the concert program, and are not allowed to exempt.  It will be calculated as a Major 9 wks. grade, counting 60% of your 9 wks. grade, and not your Semester Final.

 Each student earns a weekly participation grade of up to 100 possible points calculated from their daily participation that week, and based upon teacher observation. Self-discipline and a proper attitude are absolute requirements. Disturbances, by any choir member in rehearsal, show a lack of interest and respect, and will be dealt with immediately upon occurrence.

Homework assignments may also be given. This would primarily cover marking music, but could include rehearsal of their music and/or memorization of their music. If an assignment is given, each student is expected to complete this work by the assigned date! These assignments will be calculated as a test grade.

All choir members are expected to attend all extra rehearsals and performances as requested by the Director. Advance notice will be given prior to these rehearsals.

Performances are the finished product of our rehearsals; therefore this area is a requirement.  Their participation and attendance during the full length of the concert evening will be a major test grade. All choir members are expected to attend the entire length of our concerts. This allows the student to observe other choirs, as well as show respect to those other students who have worked diligently preparing for their concert. This also relates directly to the student in fulfilling TEKS (Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills) requirements through participation, demonstration, illustration, and/or observation.

 SUPPLIES: FOLDERS AND MUSIC

 Choir folders and music are comparable to textbooks of other classes. The student is responsible for having his (her) folder with all contents for the beginning of each rehearsal. A storage bin is provided for the safekeeping of folders in the choir room. Below is the list of supplies required:

  1. a 1” BLACK, “hard-surface” folder (with inside pockets) that has 3 rings

  2. a 3-hole pencil pouch with 4 pencils, and 4 YELLOW highlighters

  3. 6th grade bring 1 add’tl pencil (total of 5)
  4. 7th grade bring a box of Kleenex

  5. 8th grade bring 1 dispenser of hand sanitizer

  6. All HS bring 1 add’tl Black performance folder

 Our Music is very expensive. Special care of music is a necessity; therefore any lost, damaged or unnecessarily marked music is your responsibility; the cost of replacing that music will be charged.

If you lose your pencils, please replace them, immediately.  A pencil in your choir folder is a DAILY REQUIREMENT & YOUR RESPONSIBILITY!!!

NEVER USE AN INK PEN IN YOUR MUSIC, unless instructed by the Choir Director to do so!

TRAVEL:

  1. Individual competitions such as All-Region, Pre-Area, and Area auditions are used as the Texas All-State Choir selection process, and are optional for beginning the audition process; but you must meet all eligibility requirements to participate at all levels.

  2.  UIL Solo & Ensemble (Region Level), and UIL Texas State Solo & Ensemble are optional, but are  highly encouraged, as these types of events challenge the student to develop his (her) talent more fully and earn honors for their self which could lead to College Scholarship opportunities. Student must meet all eligibility requirements to participate. (JH in January, HS in February & May)
  1. Group competition will be UIL Concert/Sight-Reading Contest, which is REQUIRED from all members who meet all eligibility requirements to participate. JH – April 10 (Mon.); HS – April 11 (Tu)

  2.  Our yearly MS Dallas Music Festival is currently not being offered, and we are seeking out a replacement Music Festival in the Dallas area.  More info. to follow on this.  This trip would be an optional trip, not required for your child’s attendance; although if we do perform in a festival (followed by 6 Flags), I would recommend all attend for our overall Choral Balance.

  3. Zero Tolerance: Examples include Tobacco, Alcohol, or Drugs – Any student found possessing or using these products on school property or at any school sponsored activity, will be dealt with according to WOISD student handbook policy, and could result in immediate expulsion from the program. Although this handbook does not address every possible situation that could occur in a program, any questions not addressed in this handbook, as well as the interpretation, will be answered by the appropriate Principal.

High School choral students will be offered excellent opportunities for choir workshops, in which area colleges conduct to help prepare the students for individual contests such as HS Mixed Region to Area competitions. Advancements at these contests lead to selection to the Texas All-State Choir. These will be at the expense of the student (usually $10.00 for a Saturday workshop), and may involve the student providing his (her) own transportation to and from the workshop. (see Region IV Events) Trip Eligibility requirements apply!

All members will travel to competitions, performances, destinations, etc. on school-approved transportation, unless otherwise noted by separate permission forms. Students may ride back from any of the above with his (her) own parent or guardian, if they have signed out on location with the director or supervisor in authority. NO STUDENT WILL BE ALLOWED TO LEAVE THE LOCATION OF THE EVENT WITH ANYONE BUT THEIR PARENT OR GUARDIAN, unless PRIOR arrangements have been made with the choral director, and are subject to the approval of the school’s principal.

Additional Parental Supervision will be needed at most all of the above mentioned activities. If your child is involved in any of the above, please be in agreement with assisting us to supervise. Your student’s safety will be of the UTMOST IMPORTANCE! Please help us.  PLEASE volunteer, since it will be YOUR child participating.

              CONTACT NUMBERS:

                             (and Chain of Command)

Contact Position/Contact Name/Desk Phone/Cell Phone

HS & MS Choir Director/Ruthie Hughes /903-291-2051 /903-918-6627

Asst. MS Choir Director /Krystal Kirkland/ 903-291-2051/ Private

High School Principal /Donna Jennings/ 903-291-2002 /903-452-3715

High School Asst. Principal/Amy Billingslea/903-291-2003 /903-399-1736

High School Secretary /Cortney Byrd /903-291-2001 /Private

Middle School Principal /Becky Balboa/ 903-291-2056 /903-452-3720

Middle School Asst. Principal /   Higginbotham/903-291-2057 /903-

Middle School Secretary /Angela Carter/ 903-291-2055/ Private

Superintendent/ Michael Gilbert /903-291-2202 /Private

Superintendent Secretary/ Julie Bodovsky /903-291-2201/ Private

UNIFORMS:

High School: All high school members will receive a formal concert uniform. All parts of the uniform are the responsibility of the student. Uniforms are issued cleaned & ready for performance. Uniforms should be professionally cleaned between concerts. The uniforms will need to be returned, in your garment bag, at the end of this school year, along with money for our cost of dry cleaning:

                                    Men-$15.00 / Women-$5.00

  • Men: Issued Tuxedo includes Black Jacket & Pants, Maroon Tux Shirt, Cummerbund & Garment Bag.

  • All Men need to provide their own Black Dress Shoes and Black Crew Socks (NOT WHITE!).

  • Women: Issued Formal Black Dress & Garment Bag & Jewelry; Provide your own Black Flat Dress Shoes.

  • Both Men & Women:Maroon Choir Polo Shirt (You purchase from Director for approx. $15)

Middle School: No uniform is issued, but the following is required for performance:

  • Maroon Choir Polo Shirt (You purchase from Director for approx. $15) Please note: Gr. 7 & 8 may still use their White Polo Shirt from last year OR purchase a new Maroon one.

  • Boys: in addition to Choir Polo, you provide Black Belt, Black Slacks, Black Dress Shoes & Black Crew Socks.
  • Girls: in addition to Choir Polo, you provide FLOOR-LENGTH Black Skirt & nice Black Flat Shoes                (no Tennis shoes!)

  • All High School and Middle School Choir Members will be required to purchase the choir polo shirt, mentioned above, at the beginning of the school year. Some activities will require blue jeans to be worn with this shirt, but only a few events.

REMINDERS:

  • Supplies: Music Folders, with necessities previously listed, brought within 1st wk. of school

  • Form: Medical Record/Parent Permission Form due by end of 1st wk. of school

  • Uniform: Required for all performances;            Choir Polo Shirt (Order Form coming soon)                Please DO NOT wait until December to begin  looking for your child’s uniform parts.  Stores do  not carry all items during all seasons of the year.        Plan ahead & purchase these items NOW, please.

Middle School Choir Events

                    2016-17

Oct. 4, 2014 (Sat.-opt)…..(Gr. 7-8) All-Region Mixed Choir Contest…Lv.5:30 am – Rtn. approx.8:30 pm… @ Gunter HS
*$10 commitment……(if selected to choir, must commit to Region Clinic/Concert, Nov. 1, 2014 all day)
Oct. 11, 2014 (Sat.-opt)…..(Gr. 7-8) All-Region Cambiata Choir Contest…Lv. 6:45 am – Rtn. approx.8:30 pm… @ Sunnyvale High
School *$10 commitment……(if selected to choir, must commit to Region Clinic/Concert, Nov. 1, 2014 all day)
Nov. 1, 2014 (Sat.©) (Gr. 7-8)…All-Region Clinic (8am) & Free Concert (5pm) @ Mt. Pleasant HS (©Req’d All-Region Choir
Members) $10 commitment (Students Lv. 6:45 am & will have rehearsal all day)…(Parents arrive early for parking & seatingfull
capacity is expected, and make plans to allow your child to ride home with you after concert).
Dec. 11, 2014 (Thurs.-Req.) (Gr. 6-8)… Christmas Concert……All MS Choirs……6:30 pm-8:30 pm ……WOHS Auditorium
Full attendance is Required: This is your Six Weeks Exam Grade……(Please bring cookies. Parents are needed to volunteer for serving)
Concert followed by Refreshments.
*Dec. 12, 2014 (Fri)…(Gr. 6-8) Select Choir performs Christmas program @ Austin Bank (Hwy. 80), area Nursing Hms, then lunch
& leisure time @ Longview Mall {I NEED PARENTS TO ASSIST WITH SUPERVISION AT THE MALL, NOON-2:15) (Only with
the prior approval of our Principal’s Ofc. & School Board of Trustees)
*Dec. 10-20, 2014 M(Gr. 7-8) Select Solo & Ensemble Contest Music during Class Time. Music MUST be selected before you leave
for Christmas Holidays.
Jan 31, 2015 (Sat.-opt.) (Gr. 7-8) Solo & Ensemble Contest…T ime To Be Announced… @ Greenville HS……$10 commitment
April 7, 2015 (Tues.,Req.) (Gr. 7-8) Possible UIL Concert & Sight-Reading Contest…Time To Be Announced @ Mt. Pleasant HS
Participation Required, if we go, but Eligibility applies + Major Test Gr.
May 14, 2015 (Thurs.-Req.)…WOHS & MS Choirs Spring Concert…6:30-8:30 pm….WOHS Auditorium…
Full attendance is Required: This is your Six Weeks Exam Grade……(Please bring cookies & Parents call to volunteer to serve)
*May 9th, or 16th, 2015 (Sat.-opt.)….(Gr. 6-8) Spring Music Festival in Arlington, TX. + Six Flags-Participation optional, but is
strongly recommended…Need commitment by Wed., March 18 & full payment by Wed. April 1.(price incl. Six Flags Ticket + 1 meal)
This will occur only upon the approval of our Principal’s Ofc. and School Board of Trustees, due to our school transportation needs.

© All listed auditions are by choice, but once signed up and committed to attend, you WILL be assessed the listed entry fee for your DNA:
· All-Region Auditions – $10 / Solo & Ensemble $10 per event
· Rehearsal CD’s and Tapes will cost $1/cd, and may be purchased through Mrs. Hughes or Mrs. Lovelace
Keep on Refrigerator for Reference: Mrs. Hughes’ Office Ph.(903) 291-2051 / Cell (903) 918-6627
Mrs. Lovelace’s Office Ph.(903) 291-2051 / Cell (903)240-4722
See our blog for further information: hughesr.wonecks.net
*These are tentative dates, and may change due to other circumstances. Please watch for information to be sent home

High School Choirs List of Events

2014 – 2015

August 29, 2014 (Fri.) Choir Senior Night Football Game(Choir Seniors sing Nat’l Anthem) Meet 7:15pm WOHS Stadium
Press Box: If not in Band or Football, Dress in Choir Uniform (choir polo shirt and jeans) or Team Uniform

Sept.19th,Oct.10th,Nov. 7th (Fri.-Req.) Football Games.Sing Nat’l Anthem.Meet 7:15pm…WOHS Stadium Track

Sep 27, 2014 (Sat.-opt.) ♥Region HS Mixed REGION Audition…Lv.7:30am–Rtn.Approx.7-7:30pm…[email protected] Tree JH .$10 commitment (if selected, must commit to performing @ Region Clinic/Concert on Nov.1. 2014)

Oct.11, 2014 (Sat.-Opt) HS SAB Audition…Lv. 6:45 Rtn. Approx. 8:30 pm. Mt. Pleasant HS
(if selected, must commit to performing in Region Clinic/Concert on Nov. 1, 2014 @ Mt. Pleasant HS)

Nov. 1, 2014 (Sat.♥)All-Region Clinic (8am) & Concert (5 pm) {Parents take home students following concert} Mt. Pleasant HS *$10 commitment (♥Req’d particip.for All-Region Choir Members) (Students Lv. 6:45 am & rehearse all day) (Parents arrive early for parking & seating:full capacity expected)

Nov. 8, 2014 (Sat.-opt)…Pre-Area Workshop…..Lv. TBA – Ret’n TBA…………..……@ Pittsburg ……….……….$10 at door
Nov. 13, 2014 (Thurs.)…….Pre-Area Audition…Eat in cafeteria before leaving at noon – Ret’n 9pm @ ETBU Marshall $10 commitment… Only for those advancing from All-Region audition (if selected, must commit to auditioning @ Area Contest on Jan.10, 2015 & All-State participation required on Feb.11-14, 2015)

Dec. 11, 2014 (Thurs.-Req.) All Grades… Christmas Concert…6:30 pm-8:30 pm …… WOHS Auditorium… Full attendance is
Required: This is your Six Weeks Exam Grade……(Parents, Please bring cookies & volunteer to serve, following our concert)

Dec. 15-19, 2014 HS Solo & Ensemble Contest Title Selections made during Class. Music MUST be selected before Christmas.

Jan.9-10,2015 Sat.(if advanced from Pre-Area) Area (All-State)Audition…Lv. Fri 11am / Ret’n Sat approx. 9pm
@TAMU-Commerce……$10 audition commitment. Bring $$ for meals

Feb.11-14, 2015 (Wed.- Sat.)…TMEA Convention: All-State Groups Perform @ San Antonio Convention Center All-State
Concerts are free, but require a ticket for Mixed Choir Concert. Required if you make an All-State Choir!!

Feb.7,2015 (Sat.-opt.)♥Solo & Ensemble ContestTime tba @ Marshall HS (you can drive yourself, upon my permission…$10 commitment

April 14,2015 (Tu.-Req.) UIL Concert & Sight-Reading Contest..Time tba…Canton HS…(Participation is Required, but eligibility applies) Six Wks.Exam Grade

May 14, 2015 (Thurs.-Req.)……WOHS & MS Choirs Spring Concert & Choir Senior Slideshow…6:30 pm…WOHS
Auditorium…Full attendance & participation is Required, but eligibility applies; Six Wks. Exam……
(Parents, Please bring cookies & volunteer to serve, following our concert)

*May ?, 2015 (Req)…Scholastic’s Day Assembly Performance 9am White Oak HS Aud……This is a Major Test Grade

May 22-24, 2014 Fri-Sun: UIL State Solo & Ens. Contest Hendrickson HS in Pflugerville, TX…… Lv. Noon on the 22nd / Return 11:30 pm on the 24th …… Hotel: Embassy Suites, San Marcos, TX…..….. $15 commitment + meals $$ (this trip will include a day at Schlitterbahn Waterpark.. details to follow). If you attend this contest, and do not perform when assigned to, you will arrange for your parents to come pick you up in San Marcos, or arrange for your immediate return transportation to school, immediately upon this violation. Our District pays all of your expenses, and your
responsibility is to be prepared and perform at your assigned time. If you have any questions regarding this rule, please see Mrs. Hughes BEFORE planning on attending this contest! No “free-loaders” will be allowed to accompany us.

♥ All listed auditions are by choice, but once signed up and committed to attend, you WILL be assessed the listed entry
fee for your DNA:
· All-Region Auditions – $10 / Solo & Ensemble $10 per event / State S & E Contest $15 per event
· Rehearsal CD’s and Tapes will cost $1 each, and may be purchased through Mrs. Hughes or Mrs. Lovelace
See our blog for further information: hughesr.wonecks.net

MEDICAL RECORD/PARENT PERMISSION FORM

White Oak ISD Choirs

Student Full Name__________________________________Student ID#___________________Gr.____

(Last,…………..…..First,………….. Middle Intl)

Date of Birth:__________Current Age:____Height:___ft____inchesCurrent HS Yrs. in Choir:______

Street Address_______________________________City________________State_____Zip Code________

Home Ph. (903)_____________________________ Parents/Guardians in residence: (below) Mother/Guardian_____________________________Father/Guardian____________________________

Parent/Guardian’s Work: His Place-________________________________/ Wk.Ph.________________

“ “ “ Her Place-________________________________/ Wk.Ph. ________________

Student Cell (903)________________Father Cell ________________Mother Cell:__________________

Parent’s Emergency Contact (Ph)_______________Name:__________________Relation____________

Emails: Student___________________________(for communication between teacher and parents-below)

Emails: Mother/Guardian_________________________Father/Guardian_________________________

Family Physician______________________________________________/Ph.#______________________

Insurance Carrier________________________________________Group #________________________

Insured’s Name__________________________________________ID #____________________________

Insurance Ph.#______________________________________

Please list any allergies, special needs, or medications:________________________________________

______________________________________________________________________________________

Folder # ___________ Polo Shirt Sz. circle choiceYouth: S M L or Adult: S M L XL XXL

A separate Polo Shirt Order Form will be sent home soon, for purchase at a later date.

All information listed above will be confidential, yet will be taken on all of our destinations, in case of medical emergencies.

Permission Signatures needed on reverse side, please>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

 **************************************************************************************

Parent/Guardian:

I give my child permission to travel and participate with all 2014-2015 Choir activities. I further agree to indemnify and hold harmless White Oak ISD, sponsor(s), and any volunteer leader(s) for any harm that may befall my child. I understand that prudent and reasonable care will be taken to insure my child’s safety.

In the event of a medical emergency, and if I cannot be timely contacted, I give my permission for the district’s representative to seek emergency medical treatment for my child. I accept liability for medical expenses incurred for injury or illness that may occur on school-sponsored trips.

I have read and fully understand all aspects of this White Oak School Choir Member Handbook as found on hughesr.wonecks.net.  I also fully understand that I have the right and the privilege to discuss these or any other important issues with the choral director.

Parent/Guardian Signature_____________________________________________

Date________________________________________

**********************************************************************************

Student:

I understand that students shall be held strictly accountable for their behavior on school-sponsored trips. Students committing specified infractions may be punished by suspension or assignment to Alternative School as outlined in the Student Behavior Code of Conduct by White Oak ISD, as well as outlined in the Choir Member Rules section of the WOISD Choir Handbook. In addition, I shall represent my school in an honorable, respectful manner.

I have read and fully understand all aspects of this White Oak School Choir Member Handbook s found on hughesr.wonecks.net. I also fully understand that I have the right and the privilege to discuss these or any other important issues with the choral director.

Student Signature_______________________________

Date_________________________________________

Lesson Plans for Spring Concert & UIL TSSEC

High School Varsity Mixed Choir & High School Jr. Varsity:

Wks. of 4/13/16 to 5/27/16

Vocalises taken from various TMEA workshops, seminars & colleagues

Middle School Spring in the Park Contest will be 4/30/16 @ Heritage High School in Colleyville, Tx.

High School UIL TSSEC will be 5/30/16  @ Hendrickson HS in Pflugerville, Tx.

Objectives:  After completing these lessons, student will be able to:

     *Read music that incorporates rhythmic patterns in simple & complex meters ( 2/4, 3/4, 4/4, 6/8)

     *Interpret music terms & markings: (A-B-A-(C) forms of music,  stress markings  (< >) , accent markings ( _ ), crescendo                  and decrescendo markings, various Tempo markings ranging from Andante to Allegretto as well as poco rit. (little ritard), a tempo (back to original tempo and accelerando (to gradually get faster) or rit. (gradually get slower),                 various dynamic markings ranging from pp to ff, musical treatments of specific pitches such as tr(trill), fermata (symbol that indicates to hold a note or rest for longer than its given value) 100px-Music-fermatatenuto ( _ ) (symbol placed above or below a given note indicating that the note should receive stress and/or that its value should be slightly extended.

     * Treatment Style of sections of song or specific pitches within the music:  staccato (a short & detached style of singing),                or legato (a connected & sustained style of singing), singing with articulate consonants & open, pure vowels, singing with proper intonation (the accuracy of pitch, in-tune singing, centered-pitch singing), glissando (an effect produced by sliding from one note to another), falsetto (the register in the male voice that extends far above their natural voice; the light upper range), melissma(a group of notes sung to a single syllable or word).

     *Proper Diction in foreign languages of liturgical Latin, Spanish, German, Russian, French, as well as our own language of                  English.  Students will refer to the IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet) for pronunciation guide as well as “Phonetic                    Readings of Songs and Arias” that gives a ‘word-by-word’ IPA of their specific song.

     *Music Selections: Students chose their own Solo from our Prescribed Music List adopted each year by our UIL Music Committee.                  Classifications of Difficulty:  Class 1 – most difficult level of solo or ensemble piece & usually in a Foreign Language with Vocal Range of approx. 2 octaves or more; Class 2– medium level of difficulty of solo with some being                    sung in a Foreign language; Class 3 – least difficult level of solo & usually sung in English language (typically reserved for Middle School students).  Only Class 1 Solos are allowed to advance to the State Level of contest.  Therefore all of our student’s solos are Class 1 Solos at this contest. (TSSEC)

 

Fun at the State Capitol!

On their way to TMEA All-State in San Antonio, Ms. Hughes, Hailey Vestal, and Paige Bagley were given the privilege of touring our State Capitol in Austin. In addition, at the request of representative Bryan Hughes, flags were flown over the Capitol in their honor.  As you can tell, they had a great time!

IMG_7407 IMG_7408 IMG_7409 IMG_7410 IMG_7411 IMG_7415 IMG_7421 IMG_7422 IMG_7431 IMG_7435 IMG_7437

The pictures from last year’s TMEA were posted at this year’s registration. See a familiar face??

IMG_7439

It’s Paige Bagley!

IMG_7440

TMEA All-State Women’s Choir Members

Paige and HaileyPaige Bagley and Hailey Vestal, members of the White Oak High School Varsity Choir, will perform with the Texas All-State Women’s Choir in San Antonio, Saturday, February 13, 2016 at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center as part of the 2016 Texas Music Educators Association Clinic/Convention. They were chosen for this prestigious honor through a competitive process held this year across the state at District, Region, and Area levels. Paige Bagley is a private voice student of Mrs. Lora Robison and sings in choir at school under the direction of Ms. Ruthie Hughes who is a member of the Texas Music Educators Association, a 12,000+ member organization headquartered in Austin. Hailey Vestal is a private student of Ms. Hughes, and sings in choir at school under her direction as well. Both young ladies are 3 time members of a TMEA All-State Choir. Paige Bagley is the daughter of David and Janet Bagley. Hailey Vestal is the granddaughter of Donny and Debbie Pickard.

High school students selected to perform in the All-State concerts have competed through several levels of auditions beginning in the fall of 2015 to qualify at the state level. All-State is the highest honor a Texas music student can receive. Over 1,600 students are selected through a process that begins with over 64,000 students from around the state vying for this honor to perform in one of 15 ensembles (bands, orchestras, and choirs). Texas Music Educators Association sponsors the Texas All-State competition. This competitive process begins throughout the state in auditions hosted by 28 TMEA Regions. Individual musicians perform selected music for a panel of judges who rank each instrument or voice part. From this ranking, a select group of musicians advances from their Region to compete against musicians from other areas in seven TMEA Area competitions. The highest-ranking musicians judged at the TMEA Area competitions qualify to perform in a TMEA All-State music group. Only the top 3% of musicians who initially audition become All-State musicians.

Solo & Ensemble Contest Lesson Plans

Lesson Plans – Preparing for Solo & Ensemble Contest:

High School Varsity Mixed Choir & High School Jr. Varsity:

Wks. of 1/4/16 to 2/19/16

Vocalises taken from various TMEA workshops, seminars & colleagues

Middle School Solo & Ensemble Contest will be 1/30/16 @ White Oak High School

High School Solo & Ensemble Contest will be 2/19/16  @ ETBU – Marshall

Objectives:  After completing these lessons, student will be able to:

     *Read music that incorporates rhythmic patterns in simple & complex meters ( 2/4, 3/4, 4/4, 6/8)

     *Interpret music terms & markings: (A-B-A-(C) forms of music,  stress markings  (< >) , accent markings ( _ ), crescendo                  and decrescendo markings, various Tempo markings ranging from Andante to Allegretto as well as poco rit. (little                  ritard), a tempo (back to original tempo and accelerando (to gradually get faster) or rit. (gradually get slower),                          various dynamic markings ranging from pp to ff, musical treatments of specific pitches such as tr (trill), fermata                         (symbol that indicates to hold a note or rest for longer than its given value) 100px-Music-fermatatenuto ( _ ) (symbol placed above or             below a given note indicating that the note should receive stress and/or that its value should be slightly extended.

     * Treatment Style of sections of song or specific pitches within the music:  staccato (a short & detached style of                                     singing) or legato (a connected & sustained style of singing), singing with articulate consonants & open, pure vowels,                   singing with proper intonation (the accuracy of pitch, in-tune singing, centered-pitch singing), glissando (an effect                       produced by sliding from one note to another), falsetto (the register in the male voice that extends far above their                         natural voice; the light upper range), melissma (a group of notes sung to a single syllable or word).

     *Proper Diction in foreign languages of liturgical Latin, Spanish, German, Russian, French, as well as our own language of                  English.  Students will refer to the IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet) for pronunciation guide as well as “Phonetic                    Readings of Songs and Arias” that gives a ‘word-by-word’ IPA of their specific song.

     *Music Selections: Students chose their own Solo from our Prescribed Music List adopted each year by our UIL Music                          Committee.  Classifications of Difficulty:  Class 1 – most difficult level of solo or ensemble piece & usually in a Foreign                    Language with Vocal Range of approx. 2 octaves or more; Class 2 – medium level of difficulty of solo with some being                    sung in a Foreign language; Class 3 – least difficult level of solo & usually sung in English language (typically reserved                  for Middle School students).

 

No School February 8th

noschool

There will be no classes Monday February 8th, as our staff will be participating in staff development. Please make note of this date. 

WOISD has scheduled a Faculty and Staff Professional Development day on Monday, February 8.   Students will be out of school on this day. Also, this is a reminder that the next Monday, February 15 is a school holiday. (Presidents’ Day, officially Washington’s Birthday,  is a federal holiday observed on the third Monday of February in honor of George Washington, born on February 22. The holiday is popularly recognized as honoring also Abraham Lincoln, born on February 12, and sometimes all the U.S. Presidents.

Area and All-State Choir Results

On 11/17/2015, students from our Varsity Choir competed at Pre-Area auditions for TMEA Area Choir selection. These students put a lot of time and hard work into preparing for their audition, and it paid off in a big way. The following students were selected to the choir, and advanced to Area auditions:

Emily Mitchell
Brett Morgan
Paige Bagley- 1st Chair – Alto
Cameron Marlow – 1st Chair –  Bass
Hailey Vestal – 1st Chair – Soprano
On 1/9/16, this same group of students competed at Area auditions for selection into the Texas All-State Choir.
The following students were selected to the Texas All-State Women’s Choir, and will be performing at the Texas Music Educator’s Convention in San Antonio on February 13th, 2016.
Paige Bagley
Hailey Vestal
We are so very proud of these students for all of their hard work and commitment!  CONGRATULATIONS!!!!
Holding the lucky lobster! From L: Hailey Vestal, Emily Mitchell, Brett Morgan, Paige Bagley, Cameron Marlow

*Holding the lucky lobster! From L: Hailey Vestal, Emily Mitchell, Brett Morgan, Paige Bagley*, Cameron Marlow