VOCAL MUSIC PROGRAM OVERVIEW

The CCCEPA Vocal Music program offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to develop both a broad musical skill set and advanced performance abilities. Our mission is to foster a love for singing while providing students with the tools for self-expression.

The program is divided into two main components: rotations and rehearsals. In rotations, students study a range of subjects including piano, music theory, music history, the International Phonetic Alphabet, vocal technique, music literacy, and music production. Rehearsals culminate in numerous performances throughout the year. One key annual event is the GMEA All-State Choir, for which all students are required to audition.

The program emphasizes both solo performance and choral music across a wide variety of genres, including classical, gospel, pop, musical theatre, world music, and jazz.

BASIC EXPECTATIONS OF VOCAL STUDENTS

• Arrive on time for classes, rehearsals, performances, and events.
• Attend all mandatory curricular events and performances.
• Food, drinks, and chewing gum are prohibited in rehearsal rooms and performance spaces.
• Absolutely no use of cell phones during class or rehearsals.
• Always maintain proper performance posture during rehearsals and performances.
• Exhibit proper rehearsal etiquette: remain attentive and on task from warm-up to dismissal.
• Demonstrate proper concert etiquette both on stage and in the audience.
• Bring all required materials to every rehearsal, as outlined by the rehearsal director.
• Maintain a positive attitude during rehearsals (willingness to accept feedback is crucial for growth).
• Dress appropriately for all concerts and performances.

PERFORMING ENSEMBLES

• Vocal Concentration
• Repertory Chorus 3
• Repertory Chorus 4
• Chamber Choir
• Chorale
• Sonic Edge a cappella group
• Vocal Essence a cappella group
• Gospel Choir Club (Extra-Curricular)

CCCEPA VOCAL PROGRAM – MATRICULATION

Class and level placements are determined by the faculty based on the evaluation of each student’s skill proficiency. Class placement juries are held at the end of each school year to assess comprehension and retention. Failure to demonstrate the required skills will prevent a student from advancing to the next performing ensemble. The goal is always to place students in the environment best suited to their individual needs.

REQUIRED DAILY MATERIALS

1. Music
2. Pencil
3. Music Folder
4. Notebook

REHEARSAL & PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS

Students earn points daily based on their rehearsal and performance etiquette. Etiquette includes being prepared for class (with materials such as folders, pencils, and a designated seat), punctuality, and adherence to class procedures.

Points may be deducted for reasons such as:

• Not having required materials (e.g., music, binder, journal, pencil)
• Not being in seat on time
• Chewing gum during rehearsal
• Eating or drinking anything besides water

Each concert (including dress rehearsals) is worth 100 points in the performance category of the semester grade. The concert calendar is distributed to students in the summer before the school year begins. Failure to perform in a dress rehearsal or concert, or failure to bring the necessary materials (e.g., folder, music, attire), or failure to demonstrate proper concert etiquette will result in grade deductions.

Turning in robes, music, and folders at the end of the concert is also part of the concert etiquette grade. If a student misses a dress rehearsal, they may be pulled from the concert.

ANNUAL EVENTS (PERFORMANCES, COMPETITIONS, ETC.)

Below is a list of typical performances for the vocal program during the school year:

• Phoenix Retreat
• Freshman Flex
• Sight Reading Chorus Auditions
• Fall Concert
• Middle School Runouts
• All-State Choir Auditions
• Holiday Caroling
• Holiday Concert
• County Honors Chorus
• Senior Soiree
• All-State Sight-Reading Chorus
• Black History Program
• All-State Choir
• Large Group Performance Evaluation
• Spring Trip

Additional performances may arise throughout the year to accommodate special requests, school events, or collaborations with other departments.

CCCEPA VOCAL PERFORMANCE ATTIRE

Vocal activity fees cover the cost of basic formal concert attire. In addition to this, students are expected to wear concert black as required.

Concert black consists of:

• Black dress slacks
• Black dress shirt or blouse with sleeves
• Black, flat, closed toe shoes

Jewelry and hair accessories are not permitted. A black tie is optional. Students may be asked to wear designated outfits for special concerts or performance events. Efforts will be made to avoid excessive costs to students. In cases where formal attire is not required, students must wear tasteful attire, as it will be part of the performance grade. Specific details will be provided in class.

AFTER-SCHOOL & WEEKEND COMMITMENTS

Performances and rehearsals that occur before or after school, as well as on weekends, are integral to the music education process and essential to the program’s success. Attendance is expected at these activities. Students will receive at least two weeks’ notice for additional rehearsals or performances so arrangements can be made with families and employers.

Absences from concerts will only be excused in cases of unavoidable conflict, such as illness or a death in the family. Prior commitments, family functions, college auditions, and other performance engagements will not be considered valid excuses, and absence will result in the forfeiture of points for that concert.

VOCAL JURY EVALUATIONS

At the end of each semester, students will undergo a jury — a comprehensive evaluation that includes both performance and knowledge-based components. The jury may involve sight reading, a solo or choral excerpt, and a reflection on material learned during the course. Juries contribute to the final semester grade and help determine students’ standing and class placement for the following year.

PRIVATE LESSONS

Private lessons are highly encouraged but not required. These lessons offer individualized instruction and are a valuable resource for students seeking specialized guidance. There are many affordable private instruction options available. Consult your student’s ensemble director for further information.

ADDITIONAL PERFORMANCE OPPORTUNITIES

We encourage students to seek out music-making opportunities outside of the classroom, provided they do not conflict with their CCCEPA commitments. These opportunities might include youth performing ensembles, honors ensembles, community groups, collegiate ensembles, or even professional ensembles.