Choral Music
“Mrs. Vaught taught me the true meaning of music. She taught me how to talk to God.”
—Sammi Viniard, 1st grade
Elementary Music (Grades K-5)
Using the methods of Carl Orff, Zoltan Kadaly and Peter Tzach, students master the basics of music reading and singing techniques. Imagery, movement and visual aides address a variety of learning styles. Students participate in several programs each year to present singing in harmony, drama, instrumental music and choreography. These programs include costumes, limited sets, props, use of a sound system and stage lighting.
Middle and High School Choral Music
Choir is a course in which students prepare and present vocal music. Each student is challenged to improve his or her singing voice and music reading skills. Ideally, the choir will be able to sing with accuracy, expression, and in harmony. Music is selected with quality and spiritual content in mind. As time permits, students also include drama, narration and instrumental music to augment choral pieces. Middle and high school ensembles perform at chapels, special programs and other school functions.
Choir Course Objectives:
• Personal growth as a musician
• Presentation of quality ensemble work
• Unity
• Self-expression and worship through vocal music
Private Piano and Voice Lessons
To gain piano skills, students progress through multiple levels using Alfred’s, Bastien and Faber method books. Voice students are taught the concepts of Jan Schmidt’s Basics of Singing and Peter Tzach’s Vocal Techniques to develop proper singing skills. These skills are applied to music in a variety of styles. Students are motivated with a progressive system of rewards for practice time. Incentives are awarded incrementally throughout the year, and high achievers earn a trophy for excellent practice.
Mrs. Gloria Smith, Music and Choral Teacher, K-12
smithg@williamsburgchristian.org
