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Berry Miller Junior High
Bobcat Choir Handbook
2020-2021
Shellie Murz
Choral Director
Contact Information:
E-mail: [email protected]
Phone Number: (281)997-3935
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Table of Contents:
Parent Letter…………………….…..……….......pg 3
Objectives………………………...…………...…pg 4
Classroom Conduct………………..……….……pg 4
Concert Etiquette…………………...………....…pg 6
Grading ………..…………………….…………..pg 7
Fundraising…………………...…………….……pg 9
Uniforms………………...…………………….…pg 9
Fees……………...…………………………...…pg 10
Guidelines for Success………………………....pg 11
Responsibilities for Choir Members……..…….pg 11
How Parents Can Help…………………..……..pg 12
Return Form………………………..…………pg 13
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Letter to Parents:
Dear Seventh/Eighth Grade Families,
My name is Shellie Murz and it is my pleasure to welcome your
children into the Berry Miller choir! Teaching music is my passion
and I truly cannot wait to start this new journey with your children.
My goal this year is to meet the individual needs of each child. I
would like to make a promise to you that I will dedicate myself to
your children and work towards instilling in each child a true love
for learning. Our classroom environment is one of action,
participation, and hands-on involvement. The emphasis will be on
doing your best and taking risks. I plan to provide a nurturing
environment for my students so they will feel free to become all
they can be. Working together, we can assure that every child feels
welcomed and receives the best education possible. I truly feel that
communication and teamwork between parents and teachers is
vital. I will do my best to keep you informed and involved in your
child’s classroom life. Contact me via email or phone anytime.
I grew up in the Houston area in a large family with seven
siblings. I am a wife and mother of three. I earned my Bachelor’s
in Music Education degree in December of 2019 from Houston
Baptist University. My interests include teaching, music, movies,
cooking and spending as much time as I can with my family and
friends. This is my first full year of teaching at Berry Miller and
I’m determined to succeed although 2020 has not been the easiest
year to begin my teaching career. Please read the attached packet,
sign the bottom portion, and send it back to school with your
student. My desire is that the information contained here will
answer many of your questions and put your mind at ease as our
learning begins!
Sincerely,
Shellie Murz
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Objectives:
1. To emphasize the development of singing and music reading
skills necessary to make an enjoyable contribution to a quality
choral organization.
2. To enjoy making music. Music is fun, but there is no fun in
mediocrity. To ensure the success of the group, each student,
parent, and director must realize his/her responsibilities. Each
must be willing to sacrifice individual desires for the
betterment of the choir.
3. To have a good attitude about choir. The amount of
satisfaction and fun you receive from your choir will be no
greater than the amount of hard work and enthusiasm you are
willing to consistently contribute. Your attitude will have a
direct impact on your achievements.
4. To understand the importance of proper conduct, consideration
of others, and courtesy as a vital part of the choir.
Classroom conduct & operating procedures: REHEARSAL ETIQUETTE
While it is possible for all members of choral ensembles to share in
musical or performance decisions, in order to have an efficient and
productive rehearsal, one person must be in charge. For the BMJH
choral groups, this will be the director, conductor, clinician or
choreographer. This individual should encounter few distractions
as he/she guides the ensemble to meeting their group goal. The
following policies are designed to facilitate the best possible
educational environment for all students.
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Daily Rehearsal: Adhere to the 2 class rules: RESPECT & TRUST.
Talking should be kept to a minimum and most comments
should be directed to the director/conductor. If there’s a
question, RAISE YOUR HAND and wait politely to be
called on.
The director/conductor wants to know where you are
experiencing problems. Ask to repeat a problem section in a
timely and polite manner. A repeated mistake is difficult to
correct.
Be present at every rehearsal. Missing singers are a problem
to a choral ensemble
Be on time for every rehearsal. Every singer’s time lost
impacts the entire group. Wasted time can never be
recovered.
Everyone should take responsibility for setting up and tearing
down risers, props and other equipment if needed. Choral
group members should also show respect to the facility and
school by tidying up their personal areas at the end of
rehearsals and performances.
No food, candy, gum, or beverages are allowed in the choir
room. Only water in a container that can be resealed will be
allowed.
Cell phone usage is strictly prohibited in the choir room
during class and after-school rehearsal, even for checking the
time. Any student found using a phone without the
permission of the director will have their phone taken up,
turned in to the front office.
All members of the choral department are “ambassadors” of
Berry Miller Jr. High and therefore are subject to its rules and
policies. Therefore, exemplary behavior should be
commonplace. Incidents such as “hazing and/or
intimidation” by students will not be tolerated.
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Concert Etiquette: Choir Members
In order for performances to be of the utmost quality and to run
smoothly, students must do several things.
Arrive at the assigned call time, usually (but not always) 30
minutes before show time.
Remain in assigned holding/dressing rooms until informed to
leave by a director or chaperone.
Cooperate at all times with directors and chaperones.
Be in uniform on time to be prepared for any eventualities,
such as the concert running more quickly than expected.
Refrain from talking when on stage or backstage. THE
AUDIENCE CAN HEAR YOU!
Students are required to stay for the entire length of the
performance unless a director ahead of time approves an
early departure.
At no time are students to visit with audience members (this
includes intermission). Students will be able to see audience
members after the performance is completed.
Audience Members
BMJH students work diligently to maintain the high level of
performance standards to which audiences have become
accustomed. Listed below are some reminders for audience
members to aid in your enjoyment of our performances.
Turn off all cell phones and pagers, as they are a distraction
to the other audience members.
Refrain from talking during any performance.
Audience members will not be permitted to go backstage
during performances and will only be allowed to speak with
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performers after the performance is completed.
We look forward to having you as an audience member this
season. We cannot have a great concert without a great
audience. Thank you for your patronage and support of the
BMJH Choral Department.
Grading: The diligent, hard-working members of the Berry Miller Choir
Department know that being in choir doesn’t necessarily mean an
“easy A.” Grades are an important part of choral music education,
and it is important for each member to be acquainted with the
expectations of the BMJH Choir Department grading system.
Tutorials are offered at a variety of times and can be arranged by
making a morning or afternoon appointment.
Student grades consist of both major and daily grades.
Daily Assignments/Participation Grade …………….……..60%
Major Assignments/Concert Performance Grade………....40%
Daily Participation
Daily rehearsal grades will be determined by attitude, respect,
cooperation, effort, sectionals, sight-reading, attendance, and
improvement.
Skills
The choir member will be expected to improve individual musical
skills. An evaluation of this improvement will include taped music
tests, individual sight-reading tests, and written quizzes. The choir
member will be evaluated on improvement of his/her ensemble
skills during daily rehearsals.
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Performances: All performances are mandatory. Failure to attend a choral
performance may result in failure of the course for that six-week
grading period, if the absence is unexcused. A performance is
considered an examination of the material that has been covered in
the singer’s class. Also, the student needs to be prepared to
sing/do choreography individually to make up for that
rehearsal/concert (it will be recorded). HOWEVER, the grade
will start at a 70.
Attendance Policy
As a member of the BMJH Choir Department, you have an
obligation to your fellow choir members to be at school, at all
outside-of-school rehearsals, and at performances on time,
prepared, and with all necessary equipment. Read carefully.
1. All students are expected to have excellent daily attendance at
school.
2. Attendance at sectionals, rehearsals, and concerts scheduled
outside of the regular school day is required and graded. Absence
from sectionals or outside-of-school rehearsals can result in a
reduction of grade and possible removal from performance
opportunities.
3. Absence from outside-of-class rehearsals and concerts will be
excused for the following reasons:
• Medical emergencies or personal injury
• Death in family
4. Examples of unexcused absences include but are not limited to:
• Oversleeping
• Transportation
• Babysitting
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5. You must call if you are going to miss an outside-of-school
rehearsal or performance.
6. Chronic absences from school, unexcused absences from
rehearsals or performances, and tardiness may result in:
• Grade reduction
• Loss of performance status
• Removal from current choir or removal of performance
opportunities
• Student activity conflict resolution procedures
Consequences
Any student who does not follow the rules listed will receive the
following consequences:
• Parent phone call
• Possible office referral
• Removal from performance based setting and alternative
Assignment’s given
Fundraising: Participation in these events is optional; however, strongly
encouraged. Expenses continue to rise (music, musicians, entry
fees, etc.), so we need to have a very successful and prosperous
fundraiser to help pay for these costs! A portion of fundraisers
may also be designated for choir trips when applicable. Thank you
for your support with this very necessary item!!
Uniforms: Each choir student will be supplied with a formal performance
uniform by the school district. These uniforms are the property of
PISD and must be returned to Berry Miller at the end of the year.
Girls: Girls will be provided a black formal evening gown and girls wear
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their black dress and black CLOSED-TOED DRESS shoes.
(sandals, mules, uggs and flip-flops are not acceptable) while
performing in concert dress. Hair accessories should be neutral or
black and invisible to the audience.
Men: Men will be provided a black suit, vest, and shirt, but must furnish
black dress socks and black dress shoes (tennis shoes are not
acceptable).
In addition, all students are encouraged to purchase the official
Berry Miller Choir T- shirt, to be worn at other designated times.
Cash is accepted, and checks can be made out to Berry Miller
Choir with student’s name in the memo and the driver’s license
number and phone number on the check.
A note to all choir members and parents: We consider our concerts
formal affairs and expect that all students present themselves in a
professional manner. Please make sure that your uniform is
maintained throughout the year – clean, pressed, and hemmed.
Fees: 1) Choir Materials (required)..........…….………….…$25.00
This fee must be paid on Skyward through parent’s
Account.
2) Black Folder: 1/2” inch, 3 ring (required)
3) ALL Paperwork
Extra items requiring expense:
Choir T-Shirt
Lost or Ruined Music
Fee for choir competitions
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Guidelines for Success: Attend school and rehearsal regularly.
Make a real effort to learn and improve daily.
Become responsible for actions and assume the consequences.
Have proper respect for those in authority.
Follow classroom expectations, school regulations, and travel
instructions.
Be respectful of school property.
Cooperate with fellow choir members and share
responsibilities and privileges.
Contribute positively to music education.
Gain understanding of music and develop good listening skills.
Responsibilities of Choir Members: Self-discipline is an important element of choir rehearsal and
performance. Students must realize that they are a member of a
group or team with an excellent reputation. Their behavior during
school classes and at public performances reflects on both Berry
Miller and the Choral Department. Please remember the following
basic rules:
Respect yourself and others!
100% positive participation will prevent disruptive behavior.
Criticizing another student’s voice or effort is not allowed.
Be on time in your seat, with your folder and pencil in hand,
ready to begin when the bell rings.
When we are ready to rehearse—you are quiet and ready.
We expect students to leave all food, gum, and drinks outside of
the room.
No books, gym bags, etc. will be allowed on the risers. Leave
all supplies on the bookshelves and pick up your folder as you
enter the classroom. We expect our students to take all of their
belongings with them each day when they leave the choir room.
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You will be issued your own choir folder and music, and these
should not be lost or damaged. The student will pay for folders
and/or music if they are lost or damaged in any way.
Students may not play the piano or adjust any sound equipment.
Proper concert etiquette will be observed at all performances.
How Parents Can Help: 1. Show an interest in the music study of your child.
2. Encourage your child to perform for others when the opportunity arises,
whether at home, school, church, or the community.
3. Keep a record of the student's various music activities.
4. Notify the teacher if your child is to be absent or tardy at rehearsals or
performances.
5. Teach your child to be punctual at rehearsals and performances.
6. See to it that your child keeps up with classroom studies and makes up
missed work.
7. Discuss with the director anything that will help her to understand your
child.
8. Attend concerts and other events involving your child. Show support!!!
ALL parent volunteers in PISD must now register on the PISD
website and complete a criminal background check. This will
ensure increased security of your children. Please use the link
below! Apply as an external “employee” for volunteering.
THANK YOU!!!
https://www.applitrack.com/pearlandisd/onlineapp/
Complete and Return Form: Period_________ 2021-2022 Medical Release Form
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Parent/Guardian: Please complete and return form by_____________________
Student Name (print)___________________________ Choir Period __________
Mother’s Name ___________________ Daytime phone #__________________
Father’s Name ____________________ Daytime phone #__________________
Home Address______________________ City______________ Zip__________
Home Phone #__________________________
Parent Email Address _________________________ T-shirt Size ___________
Volunteers!
I would love to have your help with the following so please check what you would
be interested in assisting with this year! The more help we get the better year we’ll
have!!!
_____Chaperone trip or contest. _____Assist with fundraiser.
_____Chaperone a party. _____Assist with uniforms.
_____Provide refreshments. _____Sing/play piano (in public)
_____Parent helper at concert. _____Other
I have reviewed the responsibilities of a Berry Miller Choir member, including the
attached calendar. I am willing to participate and support the program in every
way.
Student Signature __________________________________
Parent Signature ___________________________________
Complete and Return Form: Period ____________
2021-2022 Medical Release Form
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Parent/Guardian: Please complete and return form by ____________________ STUDENT’S NAME: ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ PLEASE PRINT (FIRST) (LAST)
STUDENT’S ADDRESS:
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
(STREET) (CITY) (ZIP) STUDENT’S PRIMARY PHONE (best # to reach you):_______________________________________
MOTHER’S NAME: ____________________________________________________________________________
FATHER’S NAME: _____________________________________________________________________________ WORK PHONE: MOM ________________________________DAD ______________________________ HOME PHONE: MOM _________________________________DAD ______________________________ CELL PHONE: MOM _________________________________DAD ______________________________ EMAIL: MOM _________________________________DAD ______________________________ STUDENT INFORMATION: GRADE _____ M _____ F_____ BIRTHDATE _____/______/________
Allergies and/or existing medical problems: _______________________________________________________________
Medicine currently being taken:______________________________________________________________________________
Family Physician’s Name: _________________________________________________ Phone: __________________________
Insured’s Name: ________________________________________________________ Group: ______________________________
Insurance Company: ________________________________ Policy:_______________ Phone: __________________________
Emergency Contact (other than parent): ______________________ _______________Phone:_______________________
I, ___________________________________, hereby give my permission for a qualified physician to treat my son/ daughter, _______________________________________in case of a medical emergency. This form is for the entire school year’s trips and activities.
__________________________________________ ____________________ PARENT/ GUARDIAN SIGNATURE DATE
Complete and Return Form: Period________ Berry Miller Junior High
3301 Manvel Road
Pearland, Texas 77584
(281) 997-3900, FAX (281) 997-7893
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ACTIVITY PERMISSION SLIP
_________________________________________, a student in the Pearland
Independent School District is now under my control and in my custody. I hereby give
my consent for the above-named student to participate in all 2021-2022 trips, sponsored
by the Berry Miller Junior High Choir program.
It is understood that neither the Pearland Independent School District, nor any of its
trustees, officers, employees or organization sponsors are liable for any accident or
injuries that may occur to the above-named student as a result of any aspect of his or her
participation in this activity. It is understood that neither the Pearland Independent
School District, nor any of its trustees, officers, employees or agents are liable for injuries
or damages caused by the above-named student. I agree to indemnify and hold the
Pearland Independent School District harmless from all claims made against the Pearland
Independent School District, its trustees, officers, employees, and agents from any and all
claims made by third parties which result from the above-named student’s actions while
participating in the activity. In consideration of the above-named student being permitted
to participate, I expressly waive all claims to which I may otherwise be entitled, including
but not limited to, claims for medical expenses and wages.
I recognize that the Pearland Independent School District, its trustees, agents, and
employees have sovereign or governmental immunity under Texas law. I understand that
the Pearland Independent School, its trustees, agents, and employees are not waiving any
sovereign or governmental immunity that it or they have under Texas or other applicable
law.
I, the undersigned, have read this Permission Slip and Release and understand all of its
terms. I have executed it voluntarily and with full knowledge of its significance.
This Permission Slip and Release is executed on my behalf and on behalf of my
child/ward, ____________________________________. This Permission Slip and
Release is effective while my child is participating in choir trips during the 2021/2022
school year.
SIGNED this ________ day of _________________________, 2021.
______________________________________________Parent/Guardian’s Signature
Complete and Return Form Period_______
PEARLAND: Berry Miller CHOIR 2021-2022 PERMISSION IN PUBLISHING
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The Choir Department of Berry Miller Junior High may receive honors and awards throughout the school year. In order to provide recognition in our community, and recognition for the outstanding achievements of this choir program, we occasionally release photos and news articles to local publications. In order to publish these group photos, we must have permission from parents/guardians for all students in the choir. No individual student names will be used in large group photos, unless we are recognizing the individual achievements of selected students. Parents, we cannot release ANY choir photos to the public, unless we have permission from ALL students involved. Thank you for your assistance in allowing us to provide news releases to the public. Student name: ______________________________________________________ (Please Print)
As the parent/guardian of the above named child, I give my permission to have photograph’s released to local publications in the interest of recognition and news for Berry Miller Junior High Choir. ________________________________________ ______________________ Parent Signature Date
