|
|
 |
Naperville North Choral FAQs
I’m not one of the stronger vocalists at my junior high. Am I good enough to participate in high school music?We have ensembles in three levels based on ability and experience. We even have several students singing in organized choir for the first time ever. Freshman are automatically placed in beginning level ensembles (Cecilian Singers and Bass Choir). High School can be confusing enough initially. Great friendships can be struck during these initial years. (Top)
Does participation in a high school music ensemble take up a lot of time?Our curricular music classes receive full credit (just like any other elective), and the grades apply fully to your Grade Point Average. The groups are classes that meet every day for 50 minutes. Students are assessed, and receive individual feedback on individual progress every quarter. Each of the groups performs four or five evening concerts during the year. The more advanced groups may attend various festivals and special trips. Personal practice time is left up to the individual, and involves as much time as is needed to sing the assigned music at an acceptable level. That's it! Additional participation in Madrigal ensembles, private lessons, musical productions, and/or jazz groups, is purely voluntary, and has absolutely no bearing on grades in the curricular music classes! So, how much time it takes up depends on you (the vast majority of our music students also participate in extra-curricular activities, whether musical, athletic, or academic). (Top)
Do I need to have a study hall?At the High School, lunch periods are a full period long (50 minutes), allowing plenty of time to eat and do some homework. Formal study hall periods are spread throughout the day and unlike junior high "Supervised Study", individual academic teachers may not be available during your study hall. Individual attention can be set up before and after school many times. Also, in preparation for college, most classes are "lecture style" or "project-based" and often allow time for students to begin homework assignments during class (with plenty of access to teachers). You may find a study hall to be beneficial and perhaps necessary for your academic success. Many students at NNHS do not find a separate a study period to be necessary. (Top)
Will I have trouble keeping my other grades up, if I’m in a Music ensemble?Many of our music students find that scheduling a music class in their curricular day allows them to learn how to prioritize and understand the art of time management to a higher degree. Most of the students enjoy this non-academic break in the day and most enjoy educational success. (Top)
Don’t I have to take four years of Foreign Language in order to get into college?Knowing a foreign language is a wonderful and important skill. We certainly recommend that all students (whether college-bound or not) take one of these highly enriching classes (though this is not a graduation requirement). Foreign Language requirements vary from college to college and we advise students to verify foreign language needs for the colleges with their counselor. There are only a few universities in the nation that require four years of Foreign Language study. In fact, the only colleges in Illinois that have any Foreign Language requirement whatsoever are Northwestern and U of I, who both require only two years. Students who truly desire to go beyond two years (in order to develop literacy in that language or to improve their chances of doing well on the A.P. exam) should certainly do so. However, this may ultimately force a choice between that course and other electives such as music. Many college recruiters look for participation in music programs when accepting or rejecting students. This is because they know that music students are generally dependable (good attendance), organized (able to handle a full schedule), and social (work well with others toward a common goal). These qualities are highly valued at any institution, and in any occupation. In other words, college recruiters look at how well-rounded you are as an individual -- because they are looking for students who will add to their school's total community. (Top)
What if none of my friends are in Music? Isn’t Music considered kind of “un-cool”? Do I have to wear a uniform?You are about to enter a phase of life that includes more change and choices than any other time thus far. It is a scary and exciting time! Some of the kids who are your friends now will remain friends for life, but many (perhaps most) will develop other interests and make other choices. The activities you choose in high school will introduce you to many new friends. Music in District 203 is a cool activity. Besides learning a skill that you can enjoy your entire life, you'll have the opportunity of learning music written from the Renaissance period to today and learn vocal skill development that can allow you to bet a better music consumer and advocate. In the past 5 years, NNHS choirs have traveled and performed in Boston, New York City, San Francisco, and England. How cool is that?! (Top) |
|
Copyright 2008, NNHS Friends of Music, All Rights Reserved. |
||