MUSC 312: Chorale
Three hours rehearsal. Credit Hours (1).
Prerequisite: Audition
Performance of challenging choral literature of all styles and periods for soprano
and alto voices. Participation in various activities and concerts on and off campus.
Joins with other university choral ensembles to form the RU Choral Union for the performance
of extended masterworks. Open to qualified students of any major.
Note(s): Humanistic or Artistic Expression designated course. May be taken again for credit.
A maximum of four credits may be used to meet the ensemble requirement for music majors.
Detailed Description of Content of Course
Chorale provides an opportunity for students to perform music written for soprano and alto voices. During three hours of rehearsal each week the participants experience selected literature of various historical periods and genre first hand. During the process of learning this literature for public performance, the students will also work on fundamental techniques of vocal production, pronunciation of some foreign languages as well as basic elements of music literacy. University Chorale joins with other university choral ensembles to form the RU Choral Union for the performance of extended masterworks.
Detailed Description of Conduct of Course
This course is primarily a performing ensemble. It includes demonstration, some lecture and small group work; but mostly the participants will be actively involved in learning the literature at hand. Students will learn the current music both with and without piano accompaniment. Emphasis is placed upon developing the personal musicianship of each individual to a level which would facilitate artistic expression. A high standard of ensemble discipline is required with students expected to mark pertinent instruction in their scores, as well as work at passages and memorization outside of rehearsal. Students who have demonstrated sufficient range and ability will be expected to perform on several different parts, this will help develop the upper ranges of the altos as well as strengthen the ear training skills of the sopranos at the same time. Members of this chorus are eligible to be selected for a woman's chamber group which performs music from historical and contemporary a cappella traditions. The essential goal of this ensemble is to present music for public performance at the highest possible level of artistic expression. There will be no fewer than two public performances scheduled during each semester.
Goals and Objectives of the Course
As a result of the instruction towards this performance goal the successful participant will leave the ensemble with enhanced performance skills, strengthened self-confidence and a heightened aesthetic sensitivity to music and other arts.
Assessment Measures
Grades are based upon class attendance, conditional upon the student's active participation; participation in all scheduled rehearsals, and attendance at concerts.
a. Students are allowed a total of SIX cuts from class TOTAL. This includes absences for ANY REASON (personal, academic, illness). The ensemble integrity and individual ability is compromised when a student is absent excessively. Plan accordingly.
b. NOTE - no absences allowed during the two weeks of rehearsal prior to performance. Missed rehearsals during this period will result in a F for the semester. Failure to attend a scheduled performance results in an F.
The use of alcohol or drugs prior to concerts or rehearsals is prohibited. By accepting admission to Radford University, each student makes a commitment to understand, support, and abide by the University Honor Code without compromise or exception. Violations of academic integrity will not be tolerated. This class will be conducted in strict observance of the Honor Code. Refer to your Student Handbook for details.
Other Course Information
Music
Students are responsible for the care of their music. This includes replacement of lost/stolen music/materials. If all music and materials are not turned in at the end of the semester a grade of "I" will be awarded. The grade will be changed when the materials are returned or paid for. A grade of "I" will revert to "F" if not cleared.
Choral Outfits
White blouse and black skirt for women. Black tuxedo, white, wing-collared shirt, red band bow-tie and cummerbund for men. Discount purchases of new items will be available as well as a limited number of rental outfits. Information sheet will be distributed.
Approval and Subsequent Reviews
DATE ACTION REVIEWED BY
February 2006 Reviewed E. Fellin, Chairman
March 01, 2021