Yes.  Grade 9 students entering the program will be singing for the class on the first or second day of school.  This helps the students overcome nervousness and contribute to the formation of a positive learning environment in the classroom.  Students will become more comfortable singing in front of others and exploring music performance.

Not always.  Students will often be able to choose their own song, but within the frame of the unit we are working on. For example, if we are learning about Jazz, the student will have to stick to repertoire that fits the criteria.  Sometimes the teacher will make selections for the students.

No.  Students will typically perform two or three solos (including an opportunity to sing a duet) throughout the semester.  Ensemble and choral singing are foundations of the program and are where students will learn about vocal balance and blend.

Yes.  Students in the vocal music program will sing in a choir as a part of their class work as well as have the opportunity to join co-curricular choirs outside of class-time.

Yes.  Students in the vocal music program will sing in a choir as a part of their class work as well as have the opportunity to join co-curricular choirs outside of class-time.

Will I be required to get involved in the co-curricular choirs at lunch and after school?

No, but all arts students are required to join co-curricular arts activities each semester.  All arts students and their parents sign an agreement/contract at the audition acknowledging that the student will be involved in co-curricular arts activities.

The co-curricular groups are an important part of the Arts Education program and where most of the fun happens!  If you are not interested in joining one of the many co-curricular arts activities, (example: concert band, theatre groups, drawing or mural club, performing dance troupe, etc) then joining a choir makes perfect sense…especially for a vocal music student!

The co-curricular choirs are where the students will be able to explore more popular and current music styles than the repertoire that is studied in class.

There are several vocal groups (big and small) that meet at lunch and/or after school. Please listen to announcements and see Mr. Ostrander for more details.

There are many performance opportunities throughout the year.  Students are encouraged to get involved as much as they can. Performances include; the musical, Variety, Special Awards Ceremony, Road Show, CTV/Lions Club Telethon, Christmas/Holiday Assembly, Coffee Houses, class recitals, Northern Ontario Music Festival, Kiwanis Music Festival, MusicFest Canada, Spring Music Concert, Let’s Dance, Rainbow District School Board Retirement Dinner and Graduation, just to name a few.

Sudbury Secondary School vocal groups are in high demand and the program receives requests for performances at various dinners and special events throughout the year.

You should audition for the art form your are passionate about.  If that is vocal music, you shouldn’t let a changing voice get in your way.  The teachers understand the mechanics of the young male voice and will be able to help you grow into and exercise your newfound voice.