Orchestra Syllabus 2007-2008

Course Overview

Instructor:
James Palmer School Phone: 770-521-7600
E mail: palmerj@fulton.k12.ga.us


I. Course Overview

The mission of The Chattahoochee High School Orchestra is to develop each individual student’s musical ability to their fullest potential, as well as establish a life long love of music and the arts. This process will include but not be limited to the study of technique, chamber music and the performance of standard orchestral repertoire. After school rehearsals and performances will be a requirement of the class.


A. Orchestra II and III (Ninth Grade Orchestra, Camerata and Sinfonietta)

The primary focus of the Sinfonietta will be the continued development of technique and musicianship. Content will include but will not be limited to:
· Scales and Arpeggios
· Etudes
· Performance Fundamentals
· Standard String Orchestra Literature
· Ear Training
· Sight Reading
· Public Performance

The Sinfonietta Orchestra will be featured in no less than four concerts per year that will take place outside of the regular scheduled class as well as district festival. In addition, students will be encouraged to participate in solo and ensemble festival as well as other approved extra-curricular musical events.

B. Orchestra IV (Sinfonia)

The primary focus of the Sinfonia Orchestra will be to develop an advanced approach to string playing, advanced understanding of musical concepts, and to present high level artistic performances. Content will include but not be limited to:
· Scales and Arpeggios
· Etudes
· Performance Fundamentals
· Standard String Orchestra Literature
· Ear Training
· Sight Reading
· Public Performance
Course Overview (Continued)


The Sinfonia Orchestra will be featured in no less than four concerts per year that will take place outside of the regular scheduled class as well as district festival. In addition, students will be encouraged to participate in solo and ensemble festival as well as other approved extra-curricular musical events. The Sinfonia Orchestra members will also provide leadership to the Ninth Grade and Sinfonietta Orchestras as well as maintain high musical and artistic standards.


II. Required Materials

A. Instrument

Each student is required to have their instrument in proper playing condition each day, and at trips and concerts. Appropriate accessories are also required, rosin, shoulder rest, extra strings, cloth, etc…Some instruments are available from the school. Please check these instruments out for the year as well as renewing your rental for the summer.

B. Pencil

Students are required to bring their pencil to each rehearsal. Be in the habit at each rehearsal to make appropriate markings in your parts. Rehearsals will become more efficient when each musician is engaged in making corrections, bowings and notes in their music.

C. Music Folder and Music

Bring both the music and your individual folder to each rehearsal. Each student will be provided with an original or practice copy. Do not rely on your stand partner to bring the music! All music must be kept in a music folder, and slot numbers will be assigned on each folder.

D. Orchestra Handbook

Please become familiar with the policies of the CHS Orchestra Handbook. Read it along with you family and return the contract on the last page signed.











III. Attendance and Tardies

Daily attendance is essential for Artistic success. After an absence, it is your responsibility to receive any information you missed and complete the sections that we worked on in class. Tardies will be handled according to the policies found in the CHS Student handbook.



IV. Code of Conduct

As a member of the CHS Orchestra you are an ambassador for Chattahoochee High School. Each student will be representing our school in Atlanta, Fulton County, Georgia and nationally. In addition to observing the code of conduct provided in the CHS Student handbook, it s the expectation that all orchestra members will act in a professional manner at all Orchestra events.



GRADING PROCEDURE


CONCERT ATTENDANCE AND DAILY PARTICIPATION 50%
The highest level of performance can only be achieved through excellent rehearsals. Each student will earn a cumulative participation grade of 100 points. Throughout the semester, Points will be deducted for inappropriate rehearsal technique (gum, excessive talking, not having instrument or music, etc…). Attendance at scheduled performances of the orchestra is required. Each student will earn 100 points for each concert. The opportunity to make up a performance will only be allowed if the absence is excused in ADVANCE. If the absence is excused, the student will be given a make up assignment worth 100 points. If the absence is not excused, the student will receive a zero for the performance.

PLAYING EVALUATIONS 10%
A SUPERIOR performance requires preparation from all players. Playing tests on the concert music and or techniques will be given periodically. Any student receiving below an “A” will have an opportunity to play again for a higher grade. The students’ chair placement may also be determined by these playing tests.

FINAL EXAM 40%
The final exam will be performance based.




FACILITY

Rehearsal Room
· Students are responsible for picking up their playing area after each rehearsal. All music, instruments, books and materials must be put away at the end of each class. Please leave your area the way you found it when you arrived.
· Respect each other’s belongings and equipment as well as school equipment.
· NO FOOD DRINKS OR GUM are allowed in the orchestra room.
· All chairs, stands, and other equipment may not leave the orchestra room with out permission.
· All Instruments must be stored properly when not in use.
· Storage areas need to be kept clean from clutter, litter and personal items.


CONCERT ATTAIRE


Sinfonia Orchestra
MEN

· Black Tuxedo
· Black Dress Shirt
· Black Tie TBA
· Black Socks
· Black Shoes

WOMEN
· All women will need to purchase a CHS Orchestra dress.
· Black stockings
· Black Closed Toe Shoes