WASATCH HIGH SCHOOL CHORAL DEPARTMENT

HANDBOOK

2019-2020

MR. STEPHEN REYNOLDS STEPHEN.REYNOLDS@WASATCH.EDU

(435) 654-0640 X 3780

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August 21, 2019 Dear Students and Parents: Thank you so much for choosing to participate in the choirs at Wasatch High School. I hope choir will be a highlight of your day, that you will learn and develop musical skills, and that you will make memories in choir that you will cherish for the rest of your life! This handbook is intended to provide students and parents/guardians with the information that will help students to understand and be successful in the choral program. I have attempted to make this resource as thorough and as clear as possible. While not every piece of information will apply to your student, please carefully review the sections “Concerts, Performances, and Extra Rehearsals” and “Performance Attire.” My hope is that many questions that typically arise during the course of the year will be answered as you read this document. Please contact me quickly with any concerns you have regarding the information. Students should turn in the signed last page of this document by Tuesday, August 27 either in print or electronically. I am looking forward to an awesome year! Sincerely, Mr. Stephen Reynolds

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Table of Contents Statement of Philosophy ................................................................................................................................................. 1 Choral Department Offerings ......................................................................................................................................... 2 Required Classroom Materials ....................................................................................................................................... 4 Grading and Assessment ................................................................................................................................................ 4

Grading Categories ........................................................................................................................................... 4 Make Up and Extra Credit ............................................................................................................................... 5 Citizenship Grades ........................................................................................................................................... 5

Attendance ...................................................................................................................................................................... 6 Monday Consultation Time ............................................................................................................................................ 6 Hall Pass ......................................................................................................................................................................... 6 Concerts, Performances, and Extra Rehearsals .............................................................................................................. 7

Excusal from Concerts ..................................................................................................................................... 8 Performance Attire ......................................................................................................................................................... 8

Guidelines for students in ALL choirs ............................................................................................................. 8 Advanced Ladies’ Choir .................................................................................................................................. 9 Chamber Choir Ladies ..................................................................................................................................... 9 Chamber Choir Men ......................................................................................................................................... 9 Concert Choir Ladies ....................................................................................................................................... 9 Concert Choir Men ........................................................................................................................................... 9 Ladies’ Choir ................................................................................................................................................... 9 Men’s Choir ..................................................................................................................................................... 9

Eligibility ........................................................................................................................................................................ 9 Fees and Finance ............................................................................................................................................................ 9

Fundraisers ....................................................................................................................................................... 9 Financial Procedures ...................................................................................................................................... 10 Fines .............................................................................................................................................................. 10

Temple Square Performances ....................................................................................................................................... 10 “Songs and Sweets” ...................................................................................................................................................... 10 Choir Tour .................................................................................................................................................................... 11

Proposed Itinerary .......................................................................................................................................... 11 Tentative Payment Schedule .......................................................................................................................... 12 Rules of Conduct ............................................................................................................................................ 12

Transportation ............................................................................................................................................................... 13 Teacher Website ........................................................................................................................................................... 13 Performing Arts Facilities Use Policy .......................................................................................................................... 13 Varsity Letter in Choir .................................................................................................................................................. 14 National Anthem for Athletic Events ........................................................................................................................... 14 All State Choir .............................................................................................................................................................. 15 Honor Choir .................................................................................................................................................................. 15 Solo & Ensemble Festival ............................................................................................................................................ 15 Sacred Music ................................................................................................................................................................ 15 Choral Student Contract (sign and return) .................................................................................................................. 16

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Statement of Philosophy

Music exists—and has existed—in every human culture throughout time. It appears to be a human need—not merely a diversion or pastime, as some of the most profound music ever created has grown out of situations in which other basic human necessities have been lacking, such as in the Nazi concentration camps and the slave plantations of the American South. Perhaps this need for music exists because music—more exactly and accurately than any other medium—describes the realm of experience that we call “feeling”; a realm which words rarely communicate with precision. Music education is, therefore, as much an education of feeling as an education of thinking or cognition. Music organizes and provides structure and clarity to feelings in the way that writing, for example, organizes and provides structure and clarity of thoughts. The most meaningful musical experiences are those which allow us to understand others at profound and verbally inexpressible ways. A high-quality music education is more than learning “songs”; it includes musical “literacy” in a broad sense. In addition to performing well and developing technical proficiency, music students should understand musical notation, develop appreciation for diverse musics, and evaluate music and musical performances critically and with understanding. Music classes can become intrinsically enjoyable when students are progressing and deepening their musical abilities. Great satisfaction comes from investing time, energy, and effort to produce exceptional performances.

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Choral Department Offerings LADIES’ CHOIR 1720 .5 / 1.0 Credit (.5 credit only for 2019-2020) Grades 9-12 This course offers young women the opportunity to develop musical potential through singing in a choral ensemble. Students will develop healthy vocal technique, cultivate beautiful tone, and learn to read music with increasing fluency. Throughout the semester, students will perform music in various styles and languages and will work to achieve choral blend. Students will perform in concert. Prior choral and/or musical experience is strongly recommended. MEN’S CHOIR 1735 .5 / 1.0 credit (.5 credit only for 2019-2020) Grades 9-12 This course offers young men the opportunity to develop musical potential through singing in a choral ensemble. Students will develop healthy vocal technique, cultivate beautiful tone, and learn to read music with increasing fluency. Throughout the semester, students will perform music in various styles and languages and will work to achieve choral blend. Students will perform in concert. Prior choral and/or musical experience is strongly recommended. ADVANCED LADIES’ CHOIR 1721 1.0 Credit Grades 10-12 Prerequisite: Audition This advanced choral ensemble of 20-40 singers learns and performs challenging music in a variety of styles and languages throughout the year. Students should have an understanding of basic music theory and good vocal technique. Preference is given to those who have previously participated in choir classes. Members of the ensemble perform in at least three choral concerts, in region and state festivals, and at various community events. CHAMBER CHOIR 1819 1.0 credit Grades 11-12 Prerequisite: Audition This advanced choral ensemble is for students who have well-developed sight-singing skills, who are musically literate, and who understand healthy vocal technique. Chamber Choir learns and performs challenging music in a variety of styles and languages. Preference is given to those who have previously participated in choir classes and who have demonstrated responsibility and musicality. Members also perform with Concert Choir. Some rehearsals outside of class time are required. The ensemble performs in at least three choral concerts, region and state festivals, and numerous school and community events. CONCERT CHOIR 1825 1.0 credit Grades 10-12

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Prerequisite: Audition or instructor invitation/approval Concert Choir is a large mixed ensemble which performs music in a variety of styles and languages. Students learn to read music with increasing fluency and work to develop healthy and beautiful tone. Principles of choral blend and responsible rehearsal habits are emphasized. Members of Concert Choir perform in at least three choral concerts throughout the year, in region and state festivals, and at various school events. BELL CHOIR

1818 1.0 credit Grades 9-12 Prerequisite: Ability to read music well, possible audition Bell Choir is a select group of 11-14 musicians who perform using English handbells. Students will work to develop excellent technique, musicality, and sense of ensemble. Members of this group should be prepared to perform in at least three concerts during the school year as well as at various community events. AP MUSIC THEORY 1820 1.0 credit Grades 11-12 Prerequisite: Ability to read and understand musical notation The AP Music Theory course is designed to develop a student’s ability to recognize, understand, and describe the basic materials and processes of music that are heard or presented in a score. These goals are achieved through the development of aural, analytical, and compositional skills using listening and written exercises. The course also includes creative tasks such as the harmonization of a melody by selecting appropriate chords, composing a musical bass line to provide two-voice counterpoint, or the realization of figured-bass notation. The course should prepare students to take the AP Music Theory test in May.

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Required Classroom Materials Students will be provided with music, a folder, and a pencil. Students will also use their computers on a regular basis. These items should be with them in class each day.

Grading and Assessment Grades should measure student progress, understanding, and achievement. In a choral ensemble, appropriate participation is crucial to the success of the individual as well as the group, so participation is included in the academic grade, but it does not comprise the entire grade. Concerts and other performances are seen as “summative evaluations” and are comparable to a “final.” Appropriate student participation in all required performances is, therefore, crucial in earning a passing grade. Letter grades are assigned according to the following scale:

A 93-100% A- 90-92% B+ 86-89% B 83-85% B- 80-82% C+ 76-79% C 73-75% C- 70-72% D+ 66-69% D 63-65% D- 60-62% F 59% or lower

Grading Categories Student grades are weighted by category. Performance (45%)

Because performance is a significant focus in the choral department, a major portion of the academic grade will be based upon performance. Here are some of the ways in which student performance may be assessed: • Self-assessments: Students will grade themselves on the development of vocal technique and will

chart their own progress. • Sight singing: Students will be asked to sing a simple melody at sight. As this is a challenging skill

for many to develop, students may earn points for improvement. • Singing tests: In order to ensure that the class is making appropriate progress in learning music and in

developing healthy vocal technique, singing tests may be administered. Students may be asked to perform in randomly selected groups, or individuals may be recorded for later evaluation.

• Master class performance: During the first semester, members of Advanced Ladies’ Choir and Chamber Choir MAY perform for each other and receive personal feedback from peers and from Mr. Reynolds.

• Concert performance: Because our concerts are considered a “final” for the class in all but the first term, attendance and participation in the concerts is absolutely mandatory and critical. Please refer to the appropriate section of the handbook for further information about concert performances.

• Concert etiquette: An important part of involvement in our concerts is the group’s appropriate behavior on- and off-stage. This portion of the concert grade is assessed by members of the audience. The entire class receives the same score.

• Vocal habits CANVAS assignments: Students are expected to demonstrate understanding of proper vocal technique. Students will take quizzes on vocal habits using the CANVAS platform.

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Concerts/Performances

On time, dressed appropriately 100% Tardy, dressed appropriately 85% Dressed inappropriately 75% Leave concert early 65% Absent 0-59%

Rehearsal Habits (45%)

Conscientious practice is a critical skill for any musician. Developing good rehearsal habits is an important part of the success of each group and each individual. Rehearsal habits are generally graded in the following ways: • Class participation: Students will be assessed on participation in class each day. Students who

participate appropriately will receive full credit. This portion of the grade may also affect Citizenship (see below). Any absence beyond three (including school activity absences) will count against the participation grade unless made up through individual practice outside of class time.

• Self-Assessments: Students will occasionally grade their own rehearsal behaviors and habits. • Pencil checks: “A short pencil is better than a long memory.” Students are expected to have pencils in

hand throughout the rehearsal, unless otherwise directed. Occasionally Mr. Reynolds may check to see that everyone has a pencil ready and available.

• Music checks: A pencil will do you no good unless you use it! Students are expected to mark their music to help them remember concepts addressed in rehearsal. Folders may be checked from time to time to ensure that students are appropriately marking the music. Students also need to have their music in class!

Assignments (10%)

Assignments will be given on a regular basis to reinforce musical understanding and to determine student progress and needs. Most assignments will be related to the development of music reading ability, cultural appreciation, critical listening, and music history. Many of these assignments will be available on the CANVAS system. Late assignments may receive a 20% reduction in points for each day late. Students must make up assignments missed due to an excused absence as soon as possible.

Make Up and Extra Credit Student grades should reflect actual student abilities, understanding, and participation. Extra credit can distort others’ perceptions of a student’s actual academic performance. Extra credit is, therefore, rarely provided as an option for students to raise their grade in choir. Instead, students will be directed to make up for the deficiencies that are lowering their overall grade. For example, students whose rehearsal behavior grades are low should turn in documentation of time spent practicing their music for choir outside of class time; a student who has not met the standard on a sight-singing test will have the opportunity to improve his or her performance on a test of similar difficulty. See the “Concerts and Performances” section for more information about make up for a missed performance. Citizenship Grades The following behaviors will affect students’ participation and citizenship grades:

• Moving seats without permission • Leaving the classroom without permission • Disrespectful behavior • Inappropriate use of electronic devices • Not following directions • Disrupting the class • Violations of other school policies or classroom expectations

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Attendance

According to the attendance policy at Wasatch High School, students who have a combined total of more than five tardies or absences in a course during a single term will not receive citizenship credit. Attendance may be made up at Saturday morning attendance school OR during Monday consultation time in my classroom. ANY unexcused absence will also result in an “unsatisfactory-attendance” citizenship grade (UA) unless made up. The entire written policy can be found on the Wasatch High School web page. For this class, students are expected to make up ANY absence beyond three by practicing before or after school in a practice room, or otherwise documenting their practice time outside of class. Because musicians are expected to show up on time for each rehearsal, tardies also affect the “Rehearsal Habits” portion of the grade.

Monday Consultation Time Mr. Reynolds is available for parent conferences, student consultation, tutoring, and attendance make up each Monday, 2:00 p.m.-2:30 p.m. If it becomes necessary to require a student to attend consultation hour, parents will be notified in advance and transportation arrangements will be made.

Hall Pass

Students will be allowed to use the hall pass three times each term. Students are expected to remain in class during class time and to use the restroom during pass time. If a student has a legitimate health condition which may require an exception, the student’s parent or guardian should contact Mr. Reynolds. When leaving the classroom, students are asked to sign out and to carry the classroom hall pass according to school procedure. If a student is caught outside of the classroom without the hall pass, they may face school discipline.

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Concerts, Performances, and Extra Rehearsals The following performance dates were set last school year, and efforts were made to provide students with this schedule before summer break. Please understand that due to the difficulty of scheduling school events, dates cannot at this point be changed. Again, our concerts represent a final performance assessment for each term and weigh heavily in the overall grade. A calendar version of these dates is accessible from Mr. Reynolds’ website. DATE WHAT PARTICIPANTS TIME LOCATION

Friday, September 27, 2019

Homecoming Parade and Game

All choir students 6:15 call time Wright-Tree Stadium

Tuesday, October 1, 2019 (subject to change)

All State Area Rehearsal Selected quartet 2:45 p.m.-7:15 p.m. Salem Hills HS

Tuesday, October 8, 2019 (subject to change)

All State Area Rehearsal Selected quartet 2:45 p.m.-7:15 p.m. Salem Hills HS

Thursday, October 10, 2019*

All State Rehearsal Selected quartet Depart 5:00 p.m. Taylorsville HS

Friday, October 11, 2019*

All State Rehearsal Selected quartet Depart 7:00 a.m.; return 10:00 p.m.

Taylorsville HS

Saturday, October 12, 2019*

All State Rehearsal & Performance

Selected quartet Depart 11:30 a.m. Performance 7:30 p.m.

Salt Lake Tabernacle (Temple Square)

Tuesday-Wednesday, November 5-6, 2019

Uniform Check/Yearbook Photos

ALL STUDENTS In class

Tuesday, December 3, 2019

Holiday Concert ALL STUDENTS Call time: 6:00 p.m. Performance: 7:00 p.m.

WHS Auditorium

Wednesday, December 4, 2019*

Temple Square Performances

ALL STUDENTS AL, CC, Ladies ChCh, CC, Ladies AL, ChCh

10:30 a.m. departure 1:00 p.m. COB 2:00 p.m. JSMB 5:30 p.m. AH

Temple Square Locations

Tuesday, January 14, 2020

Honor choir area rehearsal

Selected students 2:45 p.m.-7:15 p.m. Salem Hills HS

Tuesday, January 21, 2020

Honor Choir area rehearsal

Selected students 2:45 p.m.-7:15 p.m. Salem Hills HS

January 24, 2020* Honor choir rehearsal Selected students TBA – all day Murray January 25, 2020* Honor choir performance Selected students TBA Abravanel Hall Tuesday, February 11, 2020

“Songs & Sweets” event Advanced Ladies’ Choir, Chamber Choir

Call time: 4:00 p.m. Performance: 7:00 p.m.

WHS Cafeteria

Tuesday, March 3, 2020

Masterworks Concert ALL STUDENTS Call time: 6:00 p.m. Performance: 7:00 p.m.

WHS Auditorium

Wednesday, March 11, 2020*

Region Solo & Ensemble Festival AND Chamber Choir Festival

Chamber Choir & Selected Students

TBA – afternoon & evening

Salem Hills HS

Saturday, March 14, 2020

Utah Spring Ring Bell Choir ~6:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m. Fremont HS

Wednesday, April 15, 2020

Region Large Choir Festival

Advanced Ladies’ Choir, Chamber Choir, Concert Choir

Afternoon/evening Provo HS

Wednesday, April 22, 2020

Region Training Choir Festival

Men’s Choir (?) TBA – afternoon/evening

Maple Mountain HS

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Wednesday, April 22-Sunday, April 26, 2020

Choir Tour to New York City

Eligible participants Schedule TBA New York City, various venues

Saturday, April 25, 2020

State Solo & Ensemble Festival

Qualifying students TBA – all morning/afternoon

Provo HS

Friday OR Saturday, May 8 or 9, 2020

State Large Choir Festival Advanced Ladies’ Choir, Concert/Chamber Choir

TBA (please be prepared for either day, any time of day!)

Libby Gardner Hall (U of U)

Thursday, May 14, 2020

Spring Concert ALL STUDENTS Call time: 6:00 p.m. Performance: 7:00 p.m.

WHS Auditorium

TBA Rotary Honors Recognition Night

Advanced Ladies’ Choir TBA (evening) WHS Auditorium

Tuesday, May 19, 2020 Senior Recognition Night Chamber Choir TBA (evening) WHS Auditorium Wednesday, May 20, 2020

Graduation Seniors, Chamber Choir TBA Wasatch County Events Center

Other rehearsals and performances may be added based on need and requests from community groups. Typically, these extra performances involve Advanced Ladies’ Choir, Chamber Choir, or Bell Choir. If an ensemble commits to an extra performance, members of that ensemble ARE REQUIRED to participate. *Known conflicts as of 8/10/2019: October 10-12 (All State Choir): Football, Cross Country, Marching Band, Musical Rehearsal

December 4 (Temple Square Performances): Wrestling, 5:00 p.m. January 24-25 (Honor Choir): Wrestling March 11 (Region Chamber Choir/Solo & Ensemble Festival): State Academic Decathlon March 14 (Bell Choir Spring Ring): State Academic Decathlon, State Debate Excusal from Concerts Choir students are rarely required to attend practices outside of school time, and homework is minimal for most of the school year. Most ensembles have only one or two performances each term. Concerts are scheduled well before the beginning of the school year so that students and parents can be informed of performance dates and plan to attend. Every reasonable effort is made to schedule performances so as to avoid other school conflicts. Virtually NO absences from performances will be excused, including work, family parties, community sponsored athletic games or practices, and travel scheduled during the course of the school year. Students may be excused for travel if parents notify Mr. Reynolds of their travel plans by September 13, 2019. *School conflicts will be handled on an individual basis, but students are expected to inform Mr. Reynolds of any conflicts at least two weeks prior to any performance in order to be considered for excusal. While some conflicts with activities are known, Mr. Reynolds does not know who those conflicts affect; students must communicate early and often with Mr. Reynolds and with their coaches or other advisors. Students who must miss a performance or who arrive late for call time MAY be allowed to complete make-up work at the teacher’s discretion. Make up might include worksheets, concert reports, essays, or other applicable assignments. Students WILL be excused from performances due to illness or extreme circumstances beyond the student’s (and parents’) control. Mr. Reynolds should be contacted by phone or by e-mail as soon as possible in such an event.

Performance Attire

Guidelines for students in ALL choirs

• Black, closed-toe dress shoes with black soles are the only acceptable performance shoes. No sandals, athletic shoes, flip flops, or shoes with white soles or laces.

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• All students must wear black socks, nylons, or tights. No patterned nylons, please. • Hair must be done so as to be out of the face. A singer’s eyes must be visible to the audience. • Ladies should wear adequate makeup for stage lighting. This includes lipstick, rouge, and eye makeup. • All students MUST wear deodorant. Please, however, DO NOT wear perfume or cologne.

Advanced Ladies’ Choir

• Concert dress. Cost: $55.00-90.00 • Pearl jewelry. Cost: $7.00-10.00

Chamber Choir Ladies

• Concert dress. Cost: $90.00 or less • Pearl jewelry. Cost: $7.00-10.00

Students may be able to purchase or borrow dresses from former students.

Chamber Choir Men

• Black wing tip collar tuxedo shirt, notch lapel tuxedo jacket, adjustable waist tuxedo pants. Cost: $160.00 or less

• White tuxedo vest and tie. Cost: $25.00 or less Concert Choir Ladies

• Black maxi dress. Cost: $20.00-25.00 • Choir robe, checked out near the beginning of the school year.

Concert Choir Men

• Black dress shirt, black dress pants • Gold or white tie. Cost: $10.00-15.00. • Choir robe, checked out near the beginning of the school year.

Ladies’ Choir

• Black maxi dress. Cost: $20.00-25.00 • Pearl jewelry. Cost: $7.00-10.00

Men’s Choir

• Black dress shirt, black dress pants. • Gold tie. Cost: $10.00-15.00

Eligibility

In order to participate in region and state festivals and choir tour, students must meet school eligibility standards, including the following:

• Students must maintain at least a 2.0 GPA (cumulative and previous term). • Students may not have more than one F for the previous term. • Students may not have any U or UA citizenship grades on their high school transcript or current grade

report.

Fees and Finance There is a $35.00 fee for participation in choir which covers the cost of transportation for certain events as well as the purchase and maintenance of music, supplies, and equipment. Students are responsible for the cost of their choir uniforms (see the uniforms section). Members of Concert Choir also pay a $10.00 robe rental fee.

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Fundraisers Some fundraising opportunities are provided each year for students who would like to earn money for choir expenses. Fundraisers must be approved by school and district administrators. Students are expected to turn in funds to the main office upon collection. Earnings from choir-sponsored fundraisers must legally remain within the choir account; they cannot be distributed to students or transferred to other organizations within the school. Financial Procedures All payments for choir must be processed through the main office at the high school. Students will receive a receipt from the secretaries for all money turned in to the school. Students should turn in these receipts to the envelope in the choir room labeled “Receipts.” The choir financial secretaries will enter the receipts into a database so that each student is credited for his or her payments. Receipts will then be returned to the student. Students or parents are encouraged to keep all receipts through the end of the school year in the event that discrepancies arise. Choir financial records will occasionally be compared to school financial records for verification. Fines Students are responsible for music and choir robes that are checked out to them. Students will be fined for any of these materials if they are lost or damaged.

Temple Square Performances The trip to Temple Square each holiday season is a highlight for many students. We leave during the school day and usually plan to provide students with time to eat lunch; students may bring food with them or purchase lunch. Additionally, students have an afternoon break for dinner. Parents and civic youth groups are encouraged to attend these performances, as the venues in which the students perform provide a unique sound that cannot be replicated anywhere in the Heber Valley. Parent volunteers are required for us to take multiple buses to Temple Square. The following guidelines have been established by Temple Square Performances: "Performers should dress and act appropriately for Temple Square and venues. Dresses should either be floor length or three-quarter length, cover the stomach, not low-cut in front or back or revealing in any other manner. "After your performance, arrange to meet with family and friends in a less congested area away from the performance venue. "Audio or video recordings are not permitted, neither is photography of actual performances due to Church licensing agreements with respect to copyright issues." Students are also asked not to carol in or around Temple Square. They should conduct themselves respectably.

“Songs and Sweets” Each February the choral department presents an evening dessert buffet and performance. Students have the opportunity to perform as soloists or members of small ensembles for family and friends. Students choose their own selections. They may use live keyboard accompaniment or recorded accompaniment. Tickets will be pre-sold so that food may be ordered appropriately. The event is hosted by members of the Advanced Ladies’ Choir and Chamber Choir. Parents who would like to volunteer to assist with the dinner show in any way (decorating, catering, etc.) may contact Mr. Reynolds.

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Proposed Choir Tour April 22-26, 2020

Purpose A choir tour should reinforce the theoretical and technical concepts related to performance which students study in class. Students have the opportunity to develop performance skills by singing in new and unique locations and by learning from master teachers. They gain further appreciation for the importance of ensemble. Choir members who are enrolled in a choir class for the full year are invited to participate, but a student’s grade is in no way affected by participation or non-participation. A tour will not be feasible or practical, however, without a certain number of students committed to going. It is anticipated that about 35 students will participate in the trip along with 3-4 adult chaperones. Absence Students will miss two days of school: Thursday, April 23, and Friday, April 24. They are expected to contact their teachers before leaving on tour to find out what work must be completed for these absences. Other Activities Please note that the state solo and ensemble festival will take place on Saturday, April 25. This means that anyone going on choir tour would not be able to perform at the state level, including the Chamber Choir. Students who hope to participate in the state solo and ensemble festival will need to arrange for their own accompanist and make sure they have the proper form and copies of music in advance of the festival. Chaperones One chaperone (age 21+) is required for every ten students going on tour. Due to the nature of this trip, we are not able to offer a discounted cost to chaperones. Parents who would like to see the choir in New York are welcome to make their own arrangements. Those would like to be considered for a chaperone spot should let Mr. Reynolds know by Friday, September 6, 2019. Restrictions Tickets will not be purchased, nor will rooms or other accommodations be made for students who have not made adequate payment to cover those costs. Payments will not be accepted from students who are ineligible to go; therefore, students who wish to go on the tour must not have any U or UA citizenship grades on their transcript, they must not receive more than one F in any term this year, and they must maintain a 2.0 GPA. Refunds Here is the refund policy for the tour set forth by the tour company, A+ Tours:

“90 to 60 days till departure: $25 per person and any applicable fees accessed by Hotels, Transportation, Attractions, etc. “60 to 45 days till departure: $50 per person fee and any applicable fees accessed by Hotels, Transportation, Attractions, etc. “Under 45 days: 50% of the Single Rate and any applicable fees accessed by Hotels, “Transportation, Attractions, etc. Less than 7 days: No refund will be given”

Transportation Students will travel by air, by charter bus (to and from the airport), and by public transportation, including the subway. Students should also anticipate a fair amount of walking. Proposed Tour Itinerary Destination: New York City, NY Estimated Cost: $1,500.00* Depart: Wednesday, April 22, evening/night Return: Sunday, April 26 Included activities:

• Adjudicated music festival experience • Clinic with professional choral conductor

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• Clinic with professional Broadway performer • Rehearsal with Dr. Z. Randall Stroope • Performance with “massed choir” at Carnegie Hall under the direction of Dr. Z. Randall Stroope, including

the world premiere of a new composition by Dr. Stroope. • Attendance at a Broadway show • Possible National Anthem performance at a New York Yankees baseball game (pending schedule and

audition acceptance) • Visits to Statue of Liberty, Ground Zero, other New York sites

Tentative Payment Schedule September 6 $300 Non-refundable Deposit November 8 $300 Second Payment January 10 $300 Third Payment February 7 $300 Fourth Payment March 7 $300 Final Payment *Cost includes transportation, lodging, and some activities, and is based on 35 students participating with quad occupancy lodging. STUDENTS ARE ENCOURAGED TO PLAN TO BRING AN ADDITIONAL $300.00 FOR FOOD AND OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES. Proposed Fundraisers

• Butter Braid Pastries • Concessions at school sporting events • Other recommended fundraisers (all fundraisers must be approved by district administration)

Rules of Conduct for Choir Tour 1. Breaking any of the rules listed here may be cause for sending a student home at his or her own (or parent’s) expense! 2. Everyone MUST have all money paid, U’s made up, and permission/insurance forms turned in BEFORE getting on the bus! 3. Always be in groups of at least three (3) at all times. Your assigned chaperone must always know where you are. 4. Conduct yourself with maturity and dignity as a representative of Wasatch High School, Wasatch County, and the State of Utah. 5. NO PDA (Public Display of Affection) including:

• no holding hands, kissing, lengthy hugging, or snuggling • no sitting with members of the opposite sex on the bus

6. Students of the opposite sex should NOT be in hotel rooms together. 7. Students are prohibited from using, consuming, handling, or possessing any form of illegal drugs and/or alcohol at any time. Gambling of ANY sort is also illegal and inappropriate. Students involved in any illegal activity will be removed from the choir by the high school administration. 8. All students shall adhere to “Lights Out” rules meaning:

• ALL students must be in their OWN rooms for the remainder of the evening and night. • Chaperones will come to each room to give instructions and reminders for the next day. • If you are caught outside your room after “Lights Out,” you will be sent home.

9. Be respectful of those around you at all times. Remember that you are not the only guests in the hotel, and you are not alone on the bus. Do not sing on the bus or try to carry on conversations over the noise of the engine. Avoid loud, disturbing or disruptive behavior at any time in the hotel. Running in the halls or slamming doors is not acceptable. 10. There will be no defacing of public property. Any damages must be paid for by those responsible for the damage. 11. Should you become ill or receive any injury during the trip, notify a chaperone immediately so that appropriate action may be taken. 12. Students are responsible for any hotel charges made to their rooms. These charges can be settled at check-out.

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13. Avoid any activity that may even appear remotely questionable. You are responsible for your own actions. So be good. 14. Do your best to get along with everyone. Spending several days together in close quarters is almost inevitably going to create some tension. If there is a problem, please discuss it with the involved parties and with a chaperone, if necessary. Everyone wants to have an enjoyable time, so be polite, get enough sleep, and try to help others be happy. 15. Perform well! 16. Have a good time by being good!

Transportation When feasible, students will travel by school bus to events outside of Wasatch County. If travel involves a small number of students, arrangements may be made for parents or school personnel to transport students. A signed permission slip for each student involved is required when this is the case. Students are expected to provide their own transportation to and from events within the Heber Valley. Parents/guardians who wish to drive their student(s) to or from events outside of the county (e.g., Temple Square performances, state festivals) should provide Mr. Reynolds with written notification prior to the event. Due to liability concerns, students are NOT authorized to drive themselves to and from events outside of the county unless they have received approval from the high school administration.

Teacher Website Mr. Reynolds’ teacher website is available from the Wasatch County School District website: www.wasatch.edu. Click on “Teacher Web Pages,” “Wasatch High School,” then “Reynolds, Stephen.” The site includes an electronic copy of this document for your reference, resources, and a calendar of choir events.

Performing Arts Facilities Use Policy The following guidelines apply to all students who use the auditorium:

1. Students shall not access facilities, equipment, or materials without the presence and approval of a Performing Arts instructor, school principal or assistant principals.

2. Performing Arts students shall not operate any equipment without full training and certification from the theatre instructor or those designated by the theatre instructor.

3. Performing Arts students shall not grant access to facilities to other students, faculty, staff, or patrons without the on-site presence and approval of authorized personnel.

4. Students shall follow all procedures established for the facilities and equipment. 5. Students shall report all incidents which may result in damage or harm to individuals or facilities. 6. Students shall not use inappropriate or offensive language or behavior. 7. Students shall wear appropriate clothing for rehearsal, instruction, and performance during school

hours and at all times while on the premises of Wasatch High School. Arms, legs, cleavage, and midriff must be fully covered.

8. Students shall not operate electronic technology (personal or public) during performances without the approval of the supervisor/instructor for the event or class. Electronics will be confiscated on sight without discussion.

9. Students shall not bring food or drink into the auditorium or auditorium operations. 10. Students shall be responsible for facilities, equipment, and materials while in use. Damages resulting

from improper and/or unauthorized access and the cost for repairs will be the responsibility of the student(s) involved.

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Varsity Letter in Choir Level One - Certificate of Participation (Certificate)

• Students must participate in each performance throughout the year and assist with concert preparation and clean-up.

• Students must complete a full year of choir with an average choir grade of at least A-. • Students must be in good standing. All academic and citizenship deficiencies must be resolved before a

student will be considered for a choir letter. • Do ONE of the following:

o Perform the National Anthem at a school sporting event o Participate in All State Choir o Participate in Utah Men’s Honor Choir or Women’s Honor Choir o Earn a superior rating (I) at a school or region solo & ensemble festival as a member of a small

ensemble or as a soloist o Study voice privately for at least six consecutive months o Participate in the school musical o Enter a musical composition in the Reflections contest o Perform as a soloist or member of a small ensemble in a community setting o Participate in Bell Choir for at least one semester

Level Two - Certificate of Achievement (Choir Pin)

• Students must participate in choir for at least two full years in grades 9-12 with an average choir grade of at least A-.

• Students must participate in each performance at which they are expected and assist with concert preparation and clean-up.

• Students must be in good standing. All academic and citizenship deficiencies must be resolved before a student will be considered for a choir letter.

• Do THREE of the activities listed under the Level One requirements. Level Three - Certificate of Excellence (Varsity Letter)

• Students must participate in choir for at least three full years in grades 9-12 with an average choir grade of at least A-.

• Students must participate in each performance at which they are expected and assist with concert preparation and clean-up.

• Students must be in good standing. All academic and citizenship deficiencies must be resolved before a student will be considered for a choir letter.

• Do FIVE of the activities listed under the Level One requirements. In order to be considered for a choir letter, students must:

• Provide a copy (unofficial is fine) of their transcript showing their membership and grades in choir, as well

as academic eligibility. • Write a letter of intent/application for the letter award. Include the level of achievement earned. Students

must also include a list of those activities which have qualified them for a choir letter. Application materials must be turned in to Mr. Reynolds by May 1, 2020. Letter recipients will be recognized at our spring concert on May 14..

National Anthem for Athletic Events Student volunteers are needed to perform “The Star-Spangled Banner” at home football games, volleyball games, basketball games, wrestling matches, baseball games, and other events. Students may perform as soloists or in small groups. More information will be provided as requests are made.

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All State Choir We will be sending one quartet to participate in the Utah All State Choir. Students are required to attend two area rehearsals and statewide rehearsals as indicated in the Concerts and Performances section of this handbook. Participants receive music and rehearsal tracks and are expected to learn the music on their own prior to the first area rehearsal. The director this year is Dr. Anton Armstrong, composer and professor at St. Olaf College in Northfield, Minnesota. The All State Choir will perform in the Tabernacle in Salt Lake City on Saturday, October 12 at 7:30 p.m.

Honor Choir The Utah Music Educators Association organizes a statewide men’s honor choir and women’s honor choir each year. We are allowed to send eight women and an unspecified number of men to participate. Students are required to attend two area rehearsals and statewide rehearsals as indicated in the Concerts and Performances section of this handbook. Participants receive music and rehearsal recordings and are expected to learn the music on their own prior to the first area rehearsal. Students may be asked to contribute all or a portion of the $60.00 fee per participant. Parent volunteers may be needed to drive students to rehearsals. Students who miss ANY of these rehearsals will be removed from the choir. This year’s directors are Marci May (Davis High School) and Sterling Keyes (Orem High School.)

Solo & Ensemble Festival Students are encouraged to participate in the region solo & ensemble festival held in February/March. Students who would like to participate should inform Mr. Reynolds in November. Mr. Reynolds is willing to choose appropriate music for the festival. Popular and Broadway selections are not acceptable for this particular event. Mr. Reynolds will also schedule times after school for students who would like individual coaching prior to the festival. Vocal and piano music must be performed from memory. Students will qualify for region performance either through selection at a school-level festival or through approval from Mr. Reynolds. Students perform for a qualified adjudicator who writes comments about the performance. The judge assigns a rating (I = Superior, II = Excellent, III = Good, IV = Fair, V = Poor). Soloists and ensembles which receive a “I” rating at the region festival qualify for the state festival. All official rules for region and state solo & ensemble festivals are available on the music page of the Utah High School Activities Association (uhsaa.org).

Sacred Music Occasionally students raise questions about the use of sacred music in choir. Study and performance of sacred choral literature has been approved and protected by a series of decisions rendered by the United States Federal Court of Appeals (Flory vs. Sioux Falls School District, 1978; Bauchman vs. West High School, 1995). These rulings guarantee that the performance of sacred choral music in the public schools does not violate the provisions of the Constitution.NAfME, the National Association for Music Educators, has issued this statement: “…The study and performance of religious music within an educational context is a vital and appropriate part of a comprehensive music curriculum. The omission of sacred music from the school curriculum would result in an incomplete educational experience.”

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Student/Parent Contract 2019-2020

I have read and understand the policies and procedures outlined in the Wasatch High School Choral Department Handbook. I have noted the performance dates on my calendars and will plan to attend. I understand that I/my student will be graded according to the criteria outlined in this document. Student Name: ___________________________________________

(Please print) Student Signature: ________________________________________ Parent/Guardian Signature: _________________________________ Date: __________________ Class (circle): Adv. Ladies Chamber Concert Ladies Men Please sign and return this page to Mr. Reynolds by Tuesday, August 27, 2019 for credit.