A CAPPELLA CHOIR 2007-2008

(72nd CONCERT SEASON)

MUS 151.01 [1 Credit], MUS 150.01 [0 Credit]

TR 4-5:50 pm

Paul D. Weber, Director, Ext. 7149, Office 107                 
Jeana Neal Borman, Accompanist, Office 222

Ed Miller, President
Tawny Church , Vice-President
Meredith Dorfer, Secretary
Laura D’Angelo, Treasurer
Rick Parkhurst, Chaplain
Jessica St. Clair & Andrew Rickel, Tour Managers
Estelle Wharton, Lauren Abel, Robes
Lauren Abel, Edwin Weber, Librarians

Regular rehearsals are scheduled for T/R, 4-5:50 p.m.  Sectional rehearsals will be held weekly by section leaders and attendance is required.  In addition all A Cappella Choir members are required to be present for all dates listed below.  A fee of $25 for new members and $10 for returning members is required at the start of the semester.

1. Consistent attendance at rehearsals from 4-5:50 pm on Tuesday and Thursday is expected.  No excuse is given for work-related absences.  Students with a class conflict will be seated as “Alternates” and may perform with the choir at the discretion of the Conductor.   

2. Grading is based on attendance, preparation of material, and return of folder.  "For Credit" and "Non-Credit" students are graded exactly the same and the expectations for both are the same.  An "F" may be given to any singer who does not appear for a performance or scheduled final rehearsal.  Excused absences are typically grave family circumstances or sickness that can be verified by a physician.  Those excuses should be addressed to Dr. Weber.  A student with laryngitis or a cold should attend rehearsals to observe without singing.  New this year:  An “F” may be given to any singer that does not return their music on the appointed day at the end of the semester.  During the semester the director may schedule times to hear students on their parts and check memorization.  Lack of preparation for such hearings will be reflected in a student’s final grade.  All singers must show appropriate demeanor and attitude in order to remain in the ensemble.

3. A student who has no conflicting academic classes may miss two (2) regularly scheduled rehearsals for the fall semester.  Singers should reserve these absences for sickness or an emergency.  Alternate singers having a class conflict are allowed no (0) absences from choir except for sickness and family emergencies and should be prepared to attend make-up rehearsals during the semester.  When a conflicting class ends, the singer should come directly to rehearsal.  Every absence beyond the allowed limit will lower the singer’s grade one letter per absence. 

4. Rehearsals begin at 4 p.m. and end at 5:50 p.m.  Singers should be in their seats ready to rehearse.  How a choir begins a rehearsal reflects their attitude and performance.  Consistent tardiness will result in the student being asked to withdraw from the ensemble.  To put this in a more positive way, it is assumed that those chosen for the A Cappella Choir will want to be the best singers possible and will make the ensemble the best that it can be. 

5. "Leave it at the door!"  You are to be mentally alert and ready to go when you enter a rehearsal.  All of us have good and bad days.  Try to block out negative attitudes and focus on making music.  If you need personal support from Dr. Weber or another choir member, we are there for you, but, if at all possible, try to choose the best time to speak with us.  Unless it is an emergency, at the beginning of rehearsal is not the best time.  Dr. Weber asks not to be disturbed the half-hour prior to rehearsal.

6.  “Strive for excellence in all things.”  Although for a few this is a first experience at being in a trained ensemble, we must become a polished and experienced choir within a short period of time.  You will be encouraged to move beyond the basics and sing as if you are all seniors.  This year’s choir will possess a unique sound that must also reflect our tradition.  You are encouraged to listen to past recordings of the choir and to learn from our experienced singers.

7.  “Judge not, lest you be judged!”  Because our talents are diverse, singers must treat one another with kindness and the utmost respect.  Each person is a gift from God and must be viewed that way.  Section leaders may help identify problem spots, but Dr. Weber will ask singers to correct mistakes.  Extensive talking within a section disrupts the entire choir and slows a rehearsal.  As we begin a new year, we must be patient with each other, follow Jesus’ command to love, and grow into a dynamic community of song and faith!