Middle School Choir and Drama Curriculum

In this class students will study not only the basics of singing but also of drama. Students will perform and study in both areas and will be graded equally in both. Students will participate in productions throughout the year. Leadership positions are available and vocal solos and dramatic lead roles are available to any student in the class, via competitive audition. This class is mandatory for 6th grade students but is also available as an elective for 7th and 8th grade students. It meets on Tuesday - Thursday from 11.15am - 12pm.

Grade weighting;

80% active participation/behavior and development of technique and performance practice

20% assessments

Concepts covered (Choir):

Technical development for voice: breathing, articulation, tone production, intonation, sound blending

Development of sight singing

Development of music theory comprehension

Development of performance practice

Development of repertoire knowledge and understanding

Perform music from a variety of genres.

Performance etiquette

Concepts covered (Drama):

To know, trust and support all of your fellow classmates – to be a team player

To develop confidence in your ability to “think on your feet” and to enhance your presentation skills

To expand your sensory awareness while reacting to a variety of stimuli and responding with naturalness

To explore inner feelings in greater depth while creating a variety of characters

To know what questions to ask and how to answer them when deepening your character’s base

To recognize the importance of preparation – analyzing a script and scoring a role – highlighting and labeling the actions and outlining objectives, actions and qualities

To let go of some of your fears and inhibitions about performing in front of others

To trust your imagination – explore different perspectives

To think critically – analyze and evaluate your own work as well as the work of others

To understand and hone the art of acting through improv as well as the use of scripted material

To grow in your appreciation for and aesthetic awareness of theatre arts while knowing and appreciating its history.

To put on full productions that include dramatic and vocal elements, lead roles and vocal solos (determined by audition)

Expectations:

Students are expected to be on time and to participate fully in the classes and to do their best to improve in the given focus area. Students should arrive on time ready to sing. Students will be expected to keep their music neatly organised and present. Attendance at all performances and concerts are mandatory. Sometimes, additional rehearsals may be called outside of the regular class time which are also mandatory.