Syllabus: University Singers
MUSCH 150C/F/H
or 350C/F/H
Spring 2008
C: Glee Club F:Instrumental H:Tech
Dr. Jeffrey Carter, Director and Producer
Office: Music 123D
Phone: 285.3599
<jcarter2@bsu.edu>
Description. A specialized, auditioned ensemble, dedicated to representing the University with the highest quality musical performances attainable, and also to developing strong leadership skills in each member.
Purpose. Through participation in University Singers, students will learn the personal discipline and self-motivation necessary in any leader; gain a thorough knowledge of music literature used for performance, including integral related areas such as history, stylistic considerations, and literary background; strengthen communication skills through the development and enhancement of vocal and instrumental processes in an ensemble setting, and through a deepened understanding of the intricacies of stage performance; grow in musical independence, and thereby demonstrate growing maturation and acceptance of personal responsibility; develop an understanding of positive reinforcement and leadership skills through weekly rehearsals; and strengthen a personal desire for excellence in all avenues of life by being challenged to achieve the best possible result in their own personal musical endeavors.
Expectations. Music is assigned to you at the beginning of the term. All music should accompany you to each rehearsal. While singing or playing, have in your mouth only what your Creator and your dentist put there. Pencils are a necessary aide in rehearsal; bring one to each class meeting.
Observe prudent principles of vocal/instrumental health and care. Demonstrate proper physical stance and mental attitude at all times during rehearsal and performance. Observe call times as posted. Maintain an attitude of courteousness, respect, and tolerance toward your leaders and other students at all times. Mark your music as instructed, even when not instructed! Caps will not be worn in any rehearsal. Remember that “You are what you continually do. Excellence, therefore, is not an act, but a habit.” Our expectations we bring into rehearsal have a direct and immediate impact on the final product.
Singer/dancers should rehearse in proper dance attire and shoes. Street clothes are rarely appropriate for our regular dance rehearsals. Members of University Singers may be asked to develop a physical regimen to enhance physical endurance; this regimen may include weight training and aerobic exercise.
Contract. The contract you signed upon acceptance into this ensemble is expressly incorporated as a portion of this syllabus.
Attendance. University Singers is a participation class. The entire ensemble suffers from the absence of any individual singer. You should therefore commit to perfect weekly attendance this term, and to arriving early to the rehearsal so that the entire group can start together! Attendance records are maintained as you sign in at every rehearsal. Your attendance record is your responsibility; the instructor will not change the sign-in sheet after rehearsal is over. Since any chorus is a participatory class, and since any absence affects the quality and consistency of the entire group, you are expected to attend every rehearsal. When illness, the press of classes, or another event intervenes, you are expected to provide immediate written notice to the instructor.
You will be allowed one absence for any reason this semester, in the manner of a grace period. Beginning with the second absence and continuing with each subsequent occurrence, your grade will be lowered one grading unit (i.e., A to A-, thence to B+, thence to B, etc.). You will find the instructor to be reasonable and understanding and willing to help you attain your desired grade in spite of adverse circumstances, provided you document every absence in a timely, responsible and professional manner.
Your Spring 2008 rehearsal schedule:
Monday 4-5.50 p.m. (glee club only)
Tuesday, 7-10 p.m. (full cast)
Wednesday, 4-5.30 p.m. (glee club only)
Handbook. The University Singers Way, located online at http://jcarter2.iweb.bsu.edu/handbook1.htm, is expressly incorporated into the guidelines and expectations stated on this syllabus.
Credit. Generally speaking, all members of University Singers enroll for one credit. Students participating in committee work enroll in two credits. Heads of committees enroll in three credits.
Three important policies. These policies were first articulated in August 1997 in response to lessons learned and in an effort to safeguard a hard-won public image. They are still in force. Please observe them carefully.
Alcohol Any event on “announced” University Singers time will not involve alcohol of any kind. “Announced” time commences with the beginning of rehearsal or call time for a performance or trip, and ends when the last person is dismissed and the last piece of equipment safely stowed away.
Smoking So that we can present the most wholesome image possible, no smoking is allowed in travel attire or in costume.
Attendance For your own protection, document any absence in writing to the Director. In addition, you should inform a band director or dance captain and the Director or Graduate Assistant by phone or in person in advance of any absence. Since your grade is based so heavily on attendance, assume responsibility for your own attendance records!
Grading. You may construct the grade you wish to earn
For those in two credits: your final grade will take into consideration your record in fulfilling responsibility and the timely meeting of stated deadlines.
For team leaders, your grade will include
Outside of class commitments. Commitments are many! You will be kept aware at the earliest possible date of all performances outside of class rehearsal time. A calendar is provided separately and is expressly incorporated into this syllabus. Additional calendar updates are provided from time to time, and these updates supersede any previous calendar editions. Because of the nature of our evolving calendar, it is not possible to provide a complete list of activities at the start of the semester.
University Singers performs in April at the FAME Show Choir Cup in Branson. The trip is required for all cast members. The cost is $190 per person. A payment schedule has been sent all members by email.
GPA Requirement. This organization represents a high level of student achievement, and maintains a rigorous rehearsal schedule. In order to ensure student success, all members of this group must possess and maintain a semester 2.5 GPA in order to remain a member. Our expressed intent is that University Singers be student-performers, with academics a matter of highest importance before performance and rehearsals. For students who are struggling with academics, specific details of your plan for academic success will be negotiated directly with the director.
Polo Shirt. You will be required to purchase a Ball State University Singers polo shirt at the beginning of your first semester in this ensemble. This shirt will be worn for some of our functions, and should be kept clean and tidy. Replacements shirts are available.
revised 01/11/2008