Music 183/383 - Chamber Singers

Syllabus and Calendar of Events Fall 2008

Instr.: Dr. Joe Hickman CAB 1060 telephone: 962-3588

email: hickmanj@uncw.edu class: Tues./Thurs. 1230-145 CAB 1088

Goals: The successful performance of masterworks of choral music and the development of skills in singing, musicianship, and interpretation. In performance, individuals in this group are served with an experience in music making and the University community has the opportunity to observe and experience this group as a musical/artistic resource. Here the product (musical performance) is the focus of attention. However, the goal of rehearsals is the preparation of the product and the learning experience of the process--that is the development of individuals’ abilities to work together to attain an excellent musical performance. It is everyone’s responsibility to strive for the excellence in rehearsal that will facilitate the development of these skills as directed by the instructor. Where Chamber Singers differs from Concert Choir is that each individual must be more responsible to the total sound of the group. This necessitates more preparation and the development of more vocal skill. In order to meet this goal, small groups (one singer per part) may be isolated for rehearsal on a regular basis.

Attendance policy: It is critical to the success of the group that all individuals attend regularly. Exceptions are made in case of contagious or extended illness, and in all cases the individual is responsible to inform me in advance and be responsible for what went on in rehearsal. The following are performance and dress rehearsal dates and are required of all without exception as a condition of enrollment in the class. Anyone who misses one or more of these dates, except in the most extreme conditions, should expect a severe grade reduction in the course. Any conflicts must be reported and resolved before August 28, 2008.

Sunday, October 19, 2008, 4 p.m. Recital Hall (call ca. 3 p.m.)

Saturday, November 22, 2008, 1 p.m. p.m. CAB 1080 – dress rehearsal

Sunday, November 23, 2008, 7:30 p.m. Recital Hall

alert: November 23 there is likely a 4 p.m. performance as well, depending on anticipated audience size

Earth Mass in NY: This performance is part of the annual St. Francis Day liturgy at Cathedral of St. John the Divine and the UNCW Chamber Choir is an invited participant. My invitation is extended to individuals who would assist in presenting a well prepared, well balanced ensemble of singers (no more than 12) to join this chorus of approximately 100. You should check with me if you want to join this group. You are responsible for transportation to New York and for at least some of the expenses of being there over the weekend. Rehearsals at the Cathedral are mandatory and are Saturday, October 4 at 6 p.m. and Sunday October 5 at 8:30 a.m. The event begins around 10:30 on Sunday and lasts until about 1:30 p.m. This is an extra-curricular activity offered to specific individuals who fit into the balance needs, can provide for their expenses, and are responsible to learn the music and attend the events. Monday is fall break.

Evaluation: Will be based on attendance, participation, and growth of individual skills in the discipline. Sight-reading and choral musicianship skills will be part of the curriculum, and this material will be assessed for effectiveness regularly using individuals and small groups. Also, music markings requested in rehearsal may be examined periodically by the director. The goal of these methods is the general improvement of skills of the group.

Music: Each member will receive copies of music (to borrow and return) and/or photocopies of public domain music and music edited by the instructor. All printed music must be returned or replaced. Earth Mass is available for purchase in the bookstore and will be on the October 14 concert. You should have a black ring binder and a pencil at all rehearsals.

Latecomers are negligent and a disruption to the rehearsal. Even if you are held up by a private lesson with an important teacher, it is your responsibility to be in attendance from the beginning of each rehearsal.

Non-registered singers in this group are welcome but only at the invitation of the conductor. They are expected to abide by all of the conditions of this syllabus, and may be asked to drop out if their participation creates problems for the group’s performance quality. University students who elect to participate in this class but do not register may not request a change of status later than the normal add-drop period.

Uniform dress code performance dress for collegiate and professional ensembles is typically black tuxedo, white shirt, black bow tie, black dress shoes for men and a floor-length skirt and sleeved (short or long sleeved but not sleeveless) top or a dress. Gentlemen: Cape Fear Formal Wear (on 3^rd Street downtown) has an attic of off-rental tuxedos. We are looking for a uniform tux—not tails or tuxedo of unusual style. Unless your size/weight is in flux, I do not recommend renting tuxedos, as the cost of rental for one event is nearly that of the purchase of a used tuxedo.