Ernest Righetti High

School Choir Handbook

2014-2015

August 2014 Greetings! Welcome back, Warriors, to the 2014-2015 school year! I am honored to serve as the new Choir Teacher at Righetti High School. A little bit about me: I am originally a Southern California native, graduating from Valencia High School in Placentia, California. I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Music Education from Cal State Fullerton as well as my teaching credential. While I was a student at CSUF, I was blessed to experience some very memorable musical moments – I’ve sung at the Hollywood Bowl, gone on tour with the Boston Pops Orchestra, and sang backup on tour for Andrea Bocelli. In addition I’ve had many leading operatic roles throughout college. Before Righetti High School, I taught Choir at Sunny Hills High School in Fullerton for four years. During that time I was also Director of Music at Fullerton First United Methodist Church. My wife, Alina, and I are newlyweds, being recently married last December. We live in Nipomo with our dog, Sadie. As part of my philosophy of education and learning I believe all students have the ability to learn and be taught a quality education. As a teacher it is my duty to see that every student receives a well-rounded choral music education. I believe in order for students to achieve and reach their academic and artistic potential a sense of community must be established within the classroom. Everyone in the class will be treated with respect and understanding for others. Righetti High School Choral Music has a strong tradition for excellence. Under my leadership it is my mission and goal that the choir program will continue to excel and prosper. I am excited and eager to begin this tremendous musical journey together. If you are a student, parent, or community member, please contact me if you have any questions, comments or concerns. Sincerely,

Matthew Ringer Mr. Matthew Ringer Teacher, Choir & Guitar Ernest Righetti High School (805) 937-2051 ext. 2332 mringer@righetti.us

Table of Contents Category Page Attendance Policy…………………………………………………………………………………4

Calendar…………………………………………………………………………….......................7

Choir Contract……………………………………………………………………………………13

Choir Officers & Musical Leadership……………………………………………………………..8

Choir Shirts………………………………………………………………………………………..7

Choir Tours………………………………………………………………………………………..9

Classroom Expectations…………………………………………………………………………..4.

Classroom Rules…………………………………………………………………………………..3

Conflicts…………………………………………………………………………………………...8

Donations………………………………………………………………………………………….6

Electronics/Cell Phone Policy……………………………………………………………………..6

Emergency Contact Handout……………………………………………………….....................12

Fundraisers………………………………………………………………………….......................7

Grading Policies…………………………………………………………………………………...3

Homework Policy…………………………………………………………………………………4

Honor Choir……………………………………………………………………………………….8

Leadership Information……………………………………………………………………………2

Music & Folders…………………………………………………………………………………..5

Overview of Program……………………………………………………………………………...2

Parent Volunteer Survey………………………………………………………............................14

Performance Admission…………………………………………………………………………...5

Performance Attire………………………………………………………………………………...5

Performance Participation…………………………………………………………........................4

Piano Usage……………………………………………………………………………………….7

Pins & Letters……………………………………………………………………………………..6

Uniform Fee/Participation/Movie Presentation Handout………….……………….....................11

Voice Lessons……………………………………………………………………………………..8

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Leadership Information

Mr. Matthew Ringer Director of Choral Music (805) 937-2051 ext. 2332

mringer@smjuhsd.org Conference Periods: 1 & 7

Mr. Bill Woods

Accompanist Periods: 2-5

In order to facilitate effective partnerships with parents/guardians to support student learning and success in school, I will make every effort to return telephone call messages and emails within 24 hours of receipt, unless the call or email is sent over a weekend, holiday, vacation period or teacher absence. If you are sending me an email, please state who you are (first and last name), what choir you are in (or what choir your child is in if you are a parent).

Overview of Choral Music at Righetti High School You have joined a successful program that has experienced more than 35 years of excellence. As a member of a performance ensemble, students must assume a high level of responsibility. Students will be held accountable for their own individual vocal development, their personal contribution to the ensemble, and for the excellence of the ensemble as a whole, in addition to traditional classroom grading requirements. Earning a seat, either by audition or registration, in any of the performance ensembles at Righetti High School is a privilege not to be taken lightly. It is our hope that the vast majority of students who register for choir as freshman continue to perform in a choral ensemble at Righetti throughout their high school years. At the end of a multiple year commitment to the RHS Choir Program, students should be able to sight read music, know basic areas of music history, understand the physiology of the human voice, gain poise from performance experiences, appreciate the necessary components of teamwork, and develop the intangible gift of self-expression. This combination of academic, group and individual skills will provide each student with a unique, lifelong opportunity that only the fine arts can enable. In-coming students, no matter what grade they are in, may register for Concert Choir or Women’s Chorale. Auditions are held each Spring and Fall for membership in Varsity Choir and Madrigals. STUDENTS MUST PLAN TO BE IN VARSITY IN ORDER TO BE IN MADRIGALS. It is the expectation that all students who sign up for any choir commit to a full year.

Tiles and grades of each curricular ensemble are as follows: CHOIR GRADES PERIOD VOICING REQUIREMENTS Concert Choir 9-12 4 SATB registration Women’s Chorale 9-12 2 SSAA registration Varsity Choir 10-12 3 SATB audition Madrigals 10-12 5 SATB audition

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Classroom Rules

1. Be on time to all classes and rehearsals. 2. Show respect to everyone and everything. 3. Be prepared for class everyday. 4. No food, drink, or gum is ever allowed. (Water is acceptable if it has a cap)

Grading Policy Daily Participation (attendance affects this) 25%

Although we cannot grade directly on attendance, it is impossible to participate in the rehearsal if a student is not there. Individuals must show energy, concentration and a positive attitude in rehearsal, exhibit good posture, mark music with a pencil, and participate in class discussions. To make up an absence, students are encouraged to schedule an after-school time to work on the material covered in class during the missed day.

Every day, each student will have the opportunity to earn three (3) participation points per day, totaling 15 points per week (for 5 days). Students gain points by having their music (1), pencil (1), and participating well at each rehearsal (1), every aspect worth one point each. Failure to be prepared at each rehearsal or class period will result in loss of all potential points for the day. If you are not present in class you will not receive any participation points Quizzes and Tests 25% Students are graded on part testing, vocal exams, and ear training. Assessment may be based upon the objective areas of rhythmic, dynamic and pitch accuracy, breath control, support, sound placement, and ability to hold their parts against other parts. (An “A” means that they have completely hit the mark. If there is trouble matching pitch or holding their part it will be difficult to expect an “A”. Students will presented with a theory concept each week, and practices throughout the week. This is the way that we have been able to make Women’s Ensemble (Chorale) and Varsity Choir both A-G approved for college. Performance Participation 50% Attendance at all scheduled performance events is mandatory. Make-up assignments are available only for excused absences or emergency situations called in prior to the event. However, if a student misses a performance for reasons beyond their control (e.g. family emergency or extreme illness), the student will be assigned a makeup assignment in lieu of the rehearsal or performance. In these extreme cases, only a note from a physician will be acceptable as evidence. Other written assignments or projects may be due throughout the semester upon Mr. Ringer’s discretion. A written assignment does not automatically count in lieu of a performance. (In Madrigals, the group commits to each concert, and once committed, students should not miss for any reason other than serious illness. The student should contact Mr. Ringer as soon as possible.)

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Grades are NOT derived from any of the following:

• Co-curricular/extra curricular/auditioned activities • Positions of leadership/responsibility within the ensemble • Private voice lessons • Parental activity within the school or the program

Attendance Policy: We adhere to the school-wide attendance policy at Righetti High School in regard to tardy arrivals and absences. Please refer to the RHS Student Handbook for details. Three or more tardies may result in detention with teacher in choir room or another location with a one day notice. Classroom Expectations Students are to enter the room respectfully and immediately get their materials out for the class period. Students must be in their assigned places at the start of class and are to sharpen their pencils before the tardy bell rings. Students not in the classroom by the time the bell rings will be considered tardy. Students are expected to follow classroom rules and fully participate in all activities. Eating food and drinking beverages is not allowed in the choir room. Only water is allowed as long as it has a cap. Homework Regular homework will not be assigned, but studies will be assigned as needed per discretion of the teacher (e.g. text memorization, etc.). Additionally, any assignments not finished in class will have to be done at home. Performance Participation: Righetti Choirs perform in several concerts per year. Each performance is considered CURRICULAR and is part of meeting State and Federal Standards for Vocal Music. Therefore, attendance is mandatory to receive a passing grade in choir. Due to the fact that each performance is unique, and cannot be recreated, there is no opportunity to “make-up” such an experience. Performance grades include performance etiquette, on-stage behavior, staying throughout the entire performance, off-stage behavior, and the care of performance attire. For students involved in other Righetti activities, every effort is made between the directors/coaches to avoid conflict with performance dates. When this is not possible, the coaches and directors work out a compromise based upon the students’ responsibilities to the performing organization and position on the team. (In Madrigals, the group commits to each performance, and once committed, students should not miss for any reason other than serious illness. The student must contact Mr. Ringer as soon as possible).

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Performance Attire Hopefully everyone in Chorale will have the chance to purchase their choir outfit right away. Concert Choir Students wait until they go up to Chorale or Varsity or purchase theirs. When the family buys it the student can trade as they move up and sell it to an incoming student at the end of their time in choir. Concert dress for each ensemble is as follows: Concert Choir – men must have solid black shoes, black socks and black pants. Women must have black pantyhose or tights, and black close-toed shoes. NO FLIP FLOPS. The robe covers the rest. Women’s Chorale – black pantyhose or tights and solid black, close-toed shoes. NO FLIP FLOPS. Skirts and blouses are ordered from a catalog. Varsity Choir – Women must have black pantyhose or tights, black close-toed shoes. NO FLIP FLOPS. Skirts and blouses are ordered from a catalog. Men’s pants, shirts, and tie will be ordered as well. Men must have black shoes and socks. Madrigals – Women will trade in their Varsity Choir outfit and not pay again, since they already paid for an outfit. Women must have black pantyhose or tights as well as solid black close-toed shoes. NO FLIP FLOPS. Men add a jacket to the other tux pieces they already bought in Varsity. Men also need solid black shoes and black socks.

****Women in all choirs must wear their hair up and out of the face*** Music and Folders Music is provided for student use and will remain the property of Righetti High School. Students are responsible for the materials they use during and outside of choir rehearsal. If items are lost, misplaced or damaged, the student(s) responsible will be held financially accountable for the loss. Each student will be given a folder and folder slot to use if they so choose. The school is not responsible for lost or stolen property. Do not use the choir room as your own personal closet or locker overnight. If a student chooses to keep their music at school, that student must also remember to be prepared for tests and singing exams. Performance Admission: We sell tickets for our concerts at the door. Monies are collected by the Righetti Choir Boosters and are deposited directly into the Righetti Choir Activity Account. This account can be used to directly benefit the students and the program, i.e. helping defray tour costs.

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Pins and Lettering Opportunities Students are made aware when they have met the criteria for a pin. They must help the director keep track for lettering criteria. Students have the opportunity to purchase pins from Mr. Ringer through the business office once the lists are posted. There are 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th year pins available. There are also Madrigal pins, and 2nd and 3rd years for them too. The cost is $4.00 per pin. In order to qualify for a pin, a student must:

1. Be in a full year, and have participated in all mandatory concerts. In addition, they must always be fully engaged in the rehearsal process, including always having their music and a pencil

In order to qualify for a letter, students must:

1. Have been in Varsity at least 1 full year. (If entering a sophomores, then one can receive their letter 12 weeks into senior year). 2. Attend 6 “musical” productions, PCPA, Melodrama, dance recitals, etc. There needs to be a program and a critique of each performance. 3. Ben an exemplary choir student having never missed a performance. 4. Must work in the choir room for at least 8 hours (clean, work in file drawers, organize

back room, etc) Electronics Policy Electronic devices as defined in the Parent/Student Handbook (E.C.48900 (k), Major Discipline Policy) are proven to be a major disruption on the Righetti High School campus. Their use at school may be detrimental to the academic climate because they take away valuable instructional time and create disciplinary problems. Electronic devices are used to cheat on quizzes and tests by storing data in memory, text messaging and camera usage. Additionally, a substantial amount of time is spent by teachers, security, and administrators investigating lost or stolen electronic devices. Therefore, Righetti High School has established the following declarations and rules regarding their use on campus:

1. Righetti High School is not responsible for lost, stolen or broken electronic devices. 2. All electronic devices (including any and all accessories) and cell phones brought to school must be turned off and put away during class time.

3. All electronic devices that are used for any reason, or are visible during the restricted time will be confiscated from the student. Once confiscated the following consequences will be imposed in accordance with the Major Discipline Policy Matrix on page 29 of the District Parent Handbook E.C. 48900(k) Electronic Devices.

Donations Monetary donations are extremely important for the success of the Righetti High School Choral Music Program. Without donation money being collected, the

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program, and ultimately the students’ education, will suffer. Here is a list of things and opportunities that donations pay for:

♦ Choir Attire (Tuxedos and Dresses) ♦ Bus Transportation (School district charges us $100.00/hour/bus ♦ Music Festival Fees ♦ Sheet Music ♦ Choir T Shirts and apparel ♦ Essential Classroom supplies (pencils, binders, Kleenex, etc.) ♦ Tour expenses

Fundraisers The choral music department will hold many fundraisers throughout the year to help close the gap on our expenses. Please check the choir calendar In addition to contributing monetary donations, students are encouraged to participate in all Choir Music Department fundraisers. Each year the Righetti Choir selects and hosts several fund raisers for Choir students. They select a variety of opportunities from selling products to working for pay. These opportunities are available for any students within the choir program. Choir account funds may be utilized for any fees associated with the Choral Program. Parents are encouraged to become very involved in this, especially if interested in a Europe tour. Choir Calendar All rehearsals and performances during and after school are MANDATORY, not just school-related concerts. We are asked to perform at many events within the community year-round and attend many festivals. Because we are a team, participation from every member is vital. Please schedule any doctor/dentist appointments, lessons or classes outside of school hours, and family events around this calendar. Please review the calendar online weekly to check for any changes made to events or call times. The Choir Calendar can be found online at www.righetti.us : click on “Clubs and Organizations” and then “RHS Choirs” Piano Usage The piano is for the accompanist. If you have piano experience, ALWAYS ask Mr. Woods for permission BEFORE you play anything. If Mr. Woods is not present, then ask Mr. Ringer. Also, the piano is an expensive musical instrument and not a coffee table. Out of respect for the instrument, please do not place personal items on the piano for whatever reason. Choir Shirts Each student in any choir will be given a Righetti Choir Shirt to wear around campus. Please feel free to wear this shirt as much as you want. This shirt will be used as a uniform and performance attire when we are in informal performance situations. Please use discretion when wearing this shirt. Wear it with pride and remember that you are always representing the choir and the school whenever you have it on. All students will be required to wear their shirt to school the day we have our concerts.

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“Just remember that out of many you are one, and yet a thousand eyes are upon you and will judge to entire [program] by your deeds, words, and character.” – J. Edward Stringham **Possible Conflicts to consider

Many RHS coaches, club advisors, and even employers outside of school have been supportive of a student’s membership in Choir and have been willing to negotiate practice/performance times. They must be given plenty of notice. If a student uses work as an excuse, the employer will be called, and if he/she was not given proper notice, the student may be asked to leave choir the following semester. It is expected that any potential conflicts with schedules will be worked out prior to a student’s audition for Varsity or Madrigals. It is unacceptable for a student to audition, be accepted, and then hope to modify requirements after or prior to determining that other conflicts exist. Voice Lessons Depending on whether or not there is an accompanist that can stay after school, private voice lessons are available for any students interested and able to make the time commitment. Private lessons are not a requirement for membership in any choral or co-curricular group at RHS. There is no grade or credit given to students who take private lessons. Monetary arrangements are made between parents and teacher. Honor Choirs

Several professional music organizations offer honor choir experiences for high school students. Righetti students have occasionally participated in the ACDA Honor Choir, and the National Honor Choir. The selection of students for each of these events varies depending upon the organization. Students are informed in class of such audition opportunities. Students selected must sign a statement of commitment prior to participating in the honors choir if selected. The school is not involved with this, and the parents must be willing to pay all costs and arrange for rides to and from the rehearsals/concert. Choir Officers

The Choir program offer elected leadership positions. The demands on the leadership are very specific to ASB rules. In order to participate in ASB activities, and any fundraising, we must be a chartered club. We have to have a President and Secretary/Treasurer. You need to be a student that plans to be around the choir room a lot. There are representatives from each choir in the cabinet. Meetings occur mostly at lunch and occasionally after school. Musical Leadership

Section Leaders are responsible for the leadership of their section during rehearsals. Section leaders must be exemplary choir members themselves, and be willing to keep their section quiet and attentive as well as set a good example for others to follow during rehearsals.

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They also must keep track of who needs music or any other required materials. Section leaders must report it to the director and help get the items to the singer. Non European Choir Tours On the non-Europe years the Righetti Choirs participate in a college tour that is educational as well as recreational. The students are given the opportunity to see great academic schools that also have quality music programs. The level of musicianship and personal responsibility while on tour is raised significantly. These experiences give students the opportunity to travel with their friends in the safety of their school environment. The cost of these trips is the responsibility of the individual choir student. The cost of any trip can be offset with the various fund raising opportunities provided by the Righetti Choir program. In some cases, scholarship monies are available for students/families in need. The tours, however, are never mandatory. Please notify Mr. Ringer if you are interested in helping in any of the following ways:

• Driving for poinsettia deliveries • Dinner theatre • Publicity • Phone tree • data entry

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Uniform Fee/Participation Agreement Uniform Cleaning

I understand that if the choir uniform is turned in soiled or smelling of smoke or any other offensive odor, we will be responsible for its dry cleaning. The parents will be contacted if this should apply. The student will be billed through the business office. ___________________ __________________ ______ Student Name (Printed) Student Signature Date ___________________ __________________ ______ Parent Name (Printed) Parent Signature Date

Movie Permission

In Choir classes there are videos that are appropriate to the subject matter and very well produced. We know that sometimes for public appeal they give them ratings higher than G. We are not allowed to show movies that are not G or PG. I understand that many parents would want to know if there was a possibility that there could be a PG-13 movie shown. I will show the highest level of discretion in choosing. I need to have your permission for your child to view movies that may have a PG-13 rating, providing they are chosen carefully. Please check one:

□ Yes, my child may view a PG-13 movie in class □ No, my child may not view a PG-13 movie in class.

__________________________ ______________________ ______ Parent Name (Printed) Parent Signature Date

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Choir Student, Parent/Guardian Contact Information

Student Name__________________ email_________________________________________ Home phone_________________ work phone___________________ cell_________________ In a medical Emergency, please contact the following: Parent/guardian #1 Name__________________ email_______________________________ Home phone_________________ work phone___________________ cell_________________ Parent/guardian #2 Name__________________ email_______________________________ Home phone_________________ work phone___________________ cell_________________ Known medical conditions of student: _____________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ Insurance Co. Policy # Group # Company phone #

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Choir Contract

I hereby acknowledge I have read and understand all the above policies and procedures stated in the Choir Handbook. As a member of choir and by signing this form, I agree to abide by these policies and procedures for the duration of the 2014-2015 school year. I understand the policies and procedures as stated in this document can be changed by Mr. Ringer at any time per his discretion throughout the semester. _____________________________________________________________________________ Student’s Name (Printed) _____________________________________________________________________________ Student’s Signature Date ______________________________________________________________________________ Parent or Guardian’s Name (Printed) ______________________________________________________________________________ Parent or Guardian’s Signature Date

This form, along with pages 11, 12 & 14 are worth 40 points total and is due no later than Friday, August 22, 2014.