MSSM Choral Syllabus

Instructor: Andrew Sullivan

Email: asullivan@mssm.org
Phone: 207-570-4699

Goals:

 To establish and reinforce correct singing/musical techniques and skills.

 To recognize, understand, and apply structural elements of melody, harmony, rhythm, and form from
both the standpoint of performer and listener.

 To improve the use of expressive elements such as dynamics, phrasing, and tempo.

 To develop a sense of fulfillment, responsibility, and pride in quality performance.

 To expand interest and knowledge of repertoire, performances, and artistic achievement from a variety of
countries, societies, and cultures.

 To cultivate a sense of identity, pride, group spirit and improved self-image through participation in a
successful performing ensemble.

Concert/Performance Dress Code:

It is vitally important that the music groups of MSSM maintain the high standard of performance and appearance
that our schools and community expect. The chorus will dress in formal attire for performance day. As a general
rule, NO JEANS, or denim‐like fabric and NO‐T‐SHIRTS are allowed on the night of the performance. The chorale
will perform in dressed up “Black and White” clothes. This generally means black on the bottom and white tops.
NO SANDALS OR “FLIPFLOPS”!!!!

Grading Policy:

50% Class Participation, Preparation

25% Performance Exams

Near the beginning of each grading period technical exercises will be assigned. Students will sign up for a time to
perform them during the last week of each grading period. Assessments will be made based on the rubric provided.

25% Concerts/Performances

Unexcused absences from performances will receive a 0 grade. Excused absences will need to arrange a time to
perform their concert music for me in the music room. The concert material will be graded with the same rubric used
for performance exams.

I. Policies & Procedure

 A. Follow Directions/Instructions with a good attitude.
B. Do not “chat” or “visit” when the director is speaking.
C. Raise your hand, not your voice, when you wish to speak.
D. Respect others and their property.
E. Do not be tardy. Get ready to rehearse quickly.

II. Music

A. It is a good idea to write your name in pencil on the upper right corner of your music if applicable.
B. When you are given instructions/directions for performance, write them in pencil on your music so you
will remember to do that thing the next time you rehearse.
C. All original sheet music is property of the school. Please take care of your sheet music and return after
each concert.

Grading Rubric

1 (2) = none of the time 3 (6) = most of the time

2 (4) = some of the time 4 (8) = all of the time

Performs with correct and even tempo: 2 4 6 8

Performs correct notes: 2 4 6 8

Performs correct rhythms: 2 4 6 8

Performs correct articulations: 1 2 3 4

Performs correct dynamics/phrasing: 1 2 3 4

Performs with good tone/intonation: 1 2 3 4

Performs with correct posture: 1 2 3 4

Overall preparation: 2 4 6 8

Total = ________________

A + = 46-48 B+= 37-39 C+ = 28-30 D+ = 19-21

A = 43-45 B = 34-38 C = 25-27 D = 16-18

A- = 40-42 B- = 31-33 C- = 22-24 D -= 13-15