University Singers MUSCH 150 or 350 Fall 2008

Alan L. Alder, Conductor Office: MU 123D Phone: 285-3599 Cell: 278-2822 Email: alalder@bsu.edu

Description: A highly specialized, auditioned ensemble, dedicated to representing the University with the highest quality musical performances attainable and 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 musical endeavors.

Expectations: Music is assigned at the beginning, and throughout the term. All music should accompany you to each rehearsal. Please DO NOT chew gum or eat other food during a rehearsal – water is okay. PENCILS ARE REQUIRED AT EVERY REHEARSAL! Observe the basic principals of good posture and good basic vocal technique at all times while in rehearsal. ALL CALL TIMES ARE MANDATORY AND YOU ARE EXPECTED TO OBSERVE THEM. Be courteous and respectful towards leaders and other students at all times. ALWAYS MARK YOUR MUSIC!

Singer/Dancers should rehearse in proper dance attire and shoes. Street clothes are rarely appropriate for Monday and Tuesday rehearsals. Members of University Singers may be asked to develop a physical regime to enhance physical endurance; this regime may include weight training and aerobic exercise.

Attendance: University Singers is 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 absence affects the quality and consistency of the entire group, you 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. Beginning with the second absence and continuing with each subsequent occurrence, your grade will be lowered one grading unit (i.e>, A to A- then to B+, and so on.). 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.

Class Meeting Times:

Monday 4 PM – 6 PM Glee Club only

Tuesday 5 PM – 6 PM Production Meeting – Committee Heads

Tuesday 7 PM – 10 PM Full Cast

Wednesday 4 PM – 5:30 PM Glee Club only

Handbook: The University Singers handbook, given to each member at the beginning of his/her participation in this ensemble, is expressly incorporated into the guidelines and expectations stated on this syllabus. You are expected to be familiar with it in its’ entirety.

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 trip, and ends when then last person is dismissed and the last piece of equipment is safely stowed away.

Smoking: So that we can present the most wholesome image possible, no smoking is allowed in travel attire or costume – EVER.

Attendance: For your own protection, document any absence in writing to the director. In addition, you should inform the band director or dance captain AND the director 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 by observing the attendance policy state above; by being punctual at rehearsals and observing call times at performances; by meeting the expectations articulated in this syllabus and in your student handbook; and by participating fully in all rehearsals and performances. In addition, your final grade will take into consideration your record in fulfilling responsibility, the timely meeting of stated deadlines; and, if applicable, your production book and team portfolio. For team leaders, your grade will include an evaluation of communication and management skills.

NOTE: No one is permitted to miss a dress rehearsal or performance for any reason other than a medical emergency, medical excuse from doctor or family death. A missed dress rehearsal or performance for any other reason will result in a failing grade for the term.

Outside of class commitments: Commitments are many and our schedule is made on an ever-evolving basis. You will be kept aware at the earliest possible date of all performances outside of class rehearsal time, and will be expected to comply with the attendance policies.