SMS Choir enters $5,000.00 Contest



 

Shawnee Mission South's Heritage Singers has made the TOP 8 in radio station 99.7 The Point/KC Youth Symphony's $5,000 Christmas Choir Comp. The winner, chosen after another 3 rounds, will receive $5,000 for its school's choir program. South is the only SMSD school in the competition - remaining challengers are from Blue Springs, KCK, Lee's Summit, Liberty, Olathe & Tonganoxie.

Technically, the final vote is by official judges, but they may be swayed by the audience's vote (by text & special keyword).

Our first round, when our rendition of "Let It Snow" will be played on the air, is TODAY, Wed, 12/5 - 7:15am, 9:15am, 1:15pm, 3:15pm & 5:15pm. YOU can vote all day once the text & keyword are announced.

More info at the 99.7 website, where you can hear all the entries: http://www.997thepoint.com/99-7-The-Point-Presents-The-5K-Christmas-Choir-Com/14893864.  

 

You can also go to our SMS Facebook page where we will keep updated information available!  LIKE US on facebook!

PLEASE support the SMS Music Department! 

 

THERE IS NOTHING GREATER THAN A RAIDER!!!

Cabaret is almost here!!!!

 

Parents & Students...

Please bring the following items to school either Thursday or Friday...

 

1.  Floor lamps (clearly labeled with names)

2. Extension Cords (clearly labeled with names)

3. Desserts for our Guests

4. Ticket orders

"An Evening of Cabaret"

Attend an evening of great music and a silent auction

Seating begins @ 6:15 pm

Show begins @ 6:30 pm

 

Friday, November 2, 2012

SMS Cafeteria

 

Contact Ms. Peterson @ sopetere@smsd.org for tickets

Tickets are only $6.00 (in advance) or $7.00 (at the door)

 

Hope to see you there!!!

South Area Choir Festival

A Cappella Choir & Heritage Singers meet in the gym at 9:45 a.m.

Wear your choir t-shirt to school tomorrow!

 

South Area Choir CONCERT

Start Time: 7:00 pm in SMS Main Gym

Admission is FREE

 

All singers are needed to stay following the concert to help with clean-up!

ALL CHOIR MEMBERS

 

Wear your choir t-shirts TOMORROW (Friday)

 

We are performing the Alma Mater at the Assembly

 

 

Meet in the GYM @ 9:45 a.m.

 

See you there!!!



***Reminders***

Parents of Heritage Singer Members

Please send payments for dresses ($130), jewelry ($17.25), shoes ($27), vests and ties ($60), 

black shirts ($15), t-shirts ($10) as soon as you are able.

Parents of Chanticleer Members

Please send payments for dresses ($130), jewelry ($13.25), shoes ($27), vests and ties ($60), 

black shirts ($15) t-shirts ($10) as soon as you are able.

About 75% of the attire is here and all the jewelry is all here (ready to turn it over to you)!!!

Thank you!

ALL PARENTS INVITED TO ATTEND!!!

SMS Choir Boosters Annual Meeting

September 6, 2012

SM South High School Choir Room

6:30 pm

Parents of Chanticleer and Heritage Singers

You will have the opportunity to complete your uniform payments at the picnic Friday (8/24/12).  Please bring cash or your checkbook.

Chanticleer and Hertiage WOMEN - Costs:
     Dresses:  $130.00
     Shoes:  $30.00
     Jewelry:  $15.00
Heritage MEN:
Vest, tie, and shirt:  $75.00
Vest and Tie only:  $60.00
RENTAL Fee for tux pants & coat: 
    Payment due September 10th - 14th - Pay to SMS Orchestra ($20)

Our website: www.smschoir.com - you can pay for your items using a credit card!!

T-shirt Designs Due TOMORROW

Any student who wishes to submit a t-shirt design for this year's choir t-shirt, submit your design to Ms. Peterson before the end of the school day, Wednesday, August 22nd.

Can't wait to see your cool design!!!

Choir Picnic...Please sign up!

The BEST picnic EVER...the Annual Choir Picnic!!

Please sign up in the choir room, indicating the number people in your family who can attend!

Friday, August 24th

6 - 8:00 pm at Marty Park (103rd & Marty)

Parent Meeting at 7:15 pm



Class Supplies Due Monday!

What a GREAT first week of classes...Thank you for your hard work and enthusiasm. It is going to be an amazing year!

Class supplies are due MONDAY, AUGUST 20th - please come prepared!

Items needed:
One - 1/2" 3-ring, BLACK binder
One - Pencil (no pens)
10-15 sheets of notebook paper (in your 3-ring binder)

See you tomorrow!

SENIOR Choir Meeting

Make plans to attend a meeting for choir seniors only in the  

Choir Room at 7:00 a.m. on Thursday, August 16. 

Donuts and juice will be provided. 

Looking forward to meeting with you and getting to know you!

Looking forward to a GREAT year!

Parents and Students:

Tuesday marks the start of an awesome, awe-inspiring year! I look forward to meeting each of you and the chance to be a part of something truly special at SMS. I have met several new teachers, staff members, students and parents...I have been so impressed as I visit with them. Each speaks very highly of the choir program, its history, the entire school and you, the parents & students. I cannot wait to be a part of the enthusiam! Let's have a fantastic year!

Meet Ms. Peterson Ice Cream Social!

Meet your new choir director and have some ice cream!

Tuesday, June 12, 2012 - from 6-7p in the court yard at SMS (in the choir room if it rains)


Hope to see you there!
Cates

Chant/Heritage Tux/Dresses

Girls from Heritage & Chanticleers -- and ALL Heritage guys -- You need to be fitted for next year's "performance attire" at Natalie M by Jun 7. THAT'S THURSDAY!

The guys' package (vest, tie & black shirt) is $57. Guys should be ready to pay Natalie M the full amount at their fittings this week.

Dresses will be $130. Girls have 2 payment options:

Write a check for the full amount, payable to the Booster Club, and mail by this Friday, June 8. (Jeff Stevens, 2610 W 105th St, Leawood, KS 66206)
Look for a PayPal button on the website in the next couple of days so you can pay the Booster Club in installments by credit card:
$50 by Friday, June 8
$50 by Monday, July 2
$30 by Wednesday, August 1

Contact Barb Trites for questions about attire or payment options.

Natalie M is located not far from Saint Luke's South:

12601 Metcalf Ave.
Overland Park, KS 66213
913.469.0888 or 800.908.2688
Mon-Fri 10-8 Sat 10-6 Sun 1-5

Welcome Ms. Peterson!

SMS Choir Students & Parents:

My good friend and colleague, Ms. Elise Peterson, has been named the new director of choirs at Shawnee Mission South!

For the past two years Ms. Peterson has served as choral director at Pioneer Trail Jr. High in Olathe. I had the opportunity to hear her choir last fall and they were one of the best middle school choirs I've heard. Before PTJH she was director of choirs at Hays High School. I heard the Hays High Chamber Choir at KMEA under Ms Peterson's direction and they were outstanding!

Ms. Peterson has served as chair of the Kansas All-State Choir and serves with me on the board of the Kansas Choral Directors Association.

Most important Ms. Peterson has a passion for making meaningful music and having fun while doing it!

I am excited for Ms. Peterson because she gets to work with the amazing singers and parents at SMS. But, I'm even more excited for you--Ms. Peterson is among the best choral directors Kansas has to offer. The tradition of AWESOME singing at SMS will not skip a beat under the leadership of Ms. Elise Peterson!

Please stay tuned for information about a meet and greet event where I will be able to introduce you to Ms. Peterson!

GET EXCITED!!

Peace.
Cates

Update: Tuesday, May 22

SMS Choir Students & Parents:

It seems that the news has "gone viral" but for those of you who have not heard:  I will not be returning to South next year.  I have accepted a position as the Director of Choral Activities at Olathe East High School.  This was an incredibly difficult decision to make.  Teaching choir at Shawnee Mission South is such a huge part of my life and who I am.  Its difficult to imagine anything else.  That said, my choice to take this new position wasn't based on my love for South, my awesome kids or my amazing parents, but on new opportunities and what is best for my family.

Even as soon as today, I know that our administration is working to find an outstanding person to take over as your new choir director.  Just like when I came to South six years ago, the new director will only be successful with the 100% support of all of you!  Give that new person everything you've got!

Last, thank you for the opportunity to laugh, cry, learn and make music.  I will always have a piece of SMS with me wherever life takes me.  The last line of our Alma Mater seems to make more sense now than ever before!

Raiders we ever shall be!
Cates

PS--Have you turned in your cookie dough money?!?!

Cookie Dough Pick-Up TODAY

ITEM PICK UP
The Cookie Dough delivery is TODAY.  The delivery should arrive around 1:30p.  Items may be taken home from school or picked up after-school.  All items must be picked up by 6:00p tonight--no exceptions.

MONEY FOR ORDERS
Money from fundraiser items is due by Tuesday, May 22.

OUR GOAL IS 100% PICK UP and 100% OF THE $$ IN ON TIME--DO YOUR VERY BEST!

A Cappella Grad Performance

ATTENTION A CAPPELLA CHOIR/SENIORS
Don't forget we perform for Graduation tonight.  Arrive at 7:00p in the choir room for warm-up.  Ceremony will begin at 8:00p.  We should be finished by 9:30p. (FREE COOKIES IN THE COURT YARD AFTER..mmmm)

What do we wear?
If you are graduating...go with the cap and gown...I hear its in this spring.  If you are not graduating we'll go with the sleek and versitile SMS Choir robe.  We'll accessorize with black socks, dress pants and dress shoes if you are a guy and black character shoes if you're a girl.

Reminders for Seniors

1.        Process in with your class.

2.       Once you have reached your seat and your row is in place come up to the choir (I will be motioning to encourage you to make the move, you’ll look at me like, “now?” and I’ll shake my head yes)

3.       We will sing the National Anthem.  You’ll sit with the choir and then we’ll sing “With A Little Help”

4.      After “With a Little Help…” you’ll go back to sit with your class.

5.       After you receive your diploma I will be waiting to remind you to re-join the choir to sing the Alma Mater

6.      After all diplomas have been passed out, we’ll sing the Alma Mater

7.       After the Alma Mater you go back to sit with your class, throw your hat up in the air and you’re done

Update: Week of May 14, 2012

SMS Choir Students & Parents:
We did it!  With the exception of A Cappella Choir's performance tomorrow night at Graduation we have completed another AMAZING year in choir at Shawnee Mission South!  A HUGE thank you to the best choirs and parents in the world!

Peace.
Cates

A CAPPELLA CHOIR:  GRADUATION PERFORMANCE
A Cappella Choir will perform at tomorrow's Graduation Ceremony.  Non-senior A Cappella Choir students should report to the choir room by 7pm for warm-up.  Please plan extra time for parking.  Graduation begins at 8pm.  The ceremony typically lasts a little over an hour.  We will sing:  The National Anthem (we will review it tomorrow in class), With A Little Help From My Friends and the Alma Mater.

Graduation Rehearsal
We will have a quick rehearsal for our Graduation performance right after lunch tomorrow.  Non-senior A Cappella Choir members should report to the choir room right after lunch.  Seniors - you are welcome to rehearse with us, meet us on the field at 1:15p.

RAIDER REVUE ODDS & ENDS
Ticket Money
Raider Revue ticket money is WAY past due.  If you have your ticket money please turn it in no later than this Thursday or a hold will be placed on your grades.  Each student must turn in unsold ticket or money for the tickets they sold.

Ticket Sales Contest
If you sold more than 15 tickets verify your ticket sales with Cates by tomorrow morning.  We will announce our winners tomorrow after-school via the blog, facebook, twitter and text!

COOKIE DOUGH DELIVERY DATE
Items from our trip-fund, Cookie Dough Fundraiser, will be delivered this Thursday, May 17.  Arrangements must be made to pick up items between the end of school and 6:30p.  Fundraiser items not picked up will be the financial responsibility of the individual student.

Money for fundraising items will be due:  Tuesday, May 22.

RETURN CHOIR-OWNED ITEMS
If you have a:  Robe, Stole, Blazer, Tie etc.  These items must be returned to the choir room by Friday to avoid a hold being placed on your grades.

CHOIR ROOM LOST-AND-FOUND
Choir dresses, character shoes, tuxes, dress shirts, jackets, sweat shirts--these are just a few of the items that have made their way into the choir room lost and found over the course of the school year.  All of these items will be taken to Goodwill at the conclusion of the school year.  If you are missing any items pick the up ASAP.

2012-2013 BOOSTERS POSITIONS
The Choir Boosters are currently filling various positions for the 12-13 school year.  If you are a returning parent and would like to help please email Boosters President, Dr. Barb Trites: barbaratrites@yahoo.com or Cates at dustincates@smsd.org.  WE MAY BE CALLING YOU :-)

Banquet & TShirt Deadlines

TWO IMPORTANT DEADLINES TODAY


Choir Banquet Reservations

• CLICK HERE to download invitation to turn in with a check (payable to SMS Choir) or cash.
• Pay and make your reservation online:  www.smschoir.com.

Tshirts

• Order Online: CLICK HERE (print receipt and bring it to class for pick-up)
• Bring  $11 cash or check (made payable to SMS Choir) and turn-in in class.

TGIF! May 4, 2012

SMS Choir Students & Parents:
There are TONS of things happening in SMS Choir next week.  PLEASE stay connected and informed so we can end the year in style!

Peace.
Cates

LETTER FORMS DUE BY MIDNIGHT TONIGHT
The eForm for earning a Letter in choir must be submitted by midnight tonight.  Artifacts for validation (emails from voice teachers, programs etc.) may be brought in on Monday but no later. If you do not remember your total points from last year enter "unknown" in that field.

To complete your Letter Form CLICK HERE.

RAIDER REVUE TSHIRTS
Each SMS Choir member must have a Raider Revue Tshirt.  Students will wear their tshirt and a pair of nice jeans and tennis/casual shoes.  Raider Reuve Tshirts must be paid for by Monday!  To order pay for your shirt online CLICK HERE.  Print your receipt and bring it to class to pick-up your shirt.  You may also pay with cash or a check (payble to SMS Choir) in a sealed envelope marked with your name, Raider Revue Tshirt and $11.00. 

RAIDER REVUE TICKETS
SELL! SELL! SELL!  With this year's show being on Thursday and Friday there is a slight chance that we may see less revenue from Raider Revue (the show is normally Friday/Saturday).  Do your best to sell those tickets!  You may also direct ticket buyers to www.smschoir.com to purchase online.  Also:  each night is different so there is reason to come to BOTH performances!

RAIDER REVUE PROGRAM ADS
Ads for the Raider Revue program must be submitted by this evening.  For ad information CLICK HERE.  Ads can be paid for at www.smschoir.com.

CHOIR AWARDS BANQUET
The Choir Awards Banquet is on Friday, May 11, before Raider Revue.  The buffet opens at 5p and the awards presentation begins at 5:30p.  If you would like to eat you must have a reservation.  To make your reservation online CLICK HERE.  To download the form and turn-in in class CLICK HERE.  Reservations due: May 7.

A CAPPELLA CHOIR GRADUATION PERFORMANCE
As always, A Cappella Choir will perform at Graduation.  This year's Commencement is Tuesday, May 15, at 8p.  Call time for A Cappella Choir is 7:00p.  Remember to plan time for parking--there will be TONS of people in attendance.

TURN-IN CHOIR RELATED ITEMS
If you have any choir-owned item (a robe, a tie, a blazer etc.) these items must be turned in by Monday, May 14 for seniors and by Wednesday, May 23 for underclassmen.  Failure to turn in these items will result in a hold on your transcripts/grades.  This is BAD.

Update: May 1, 2012

COOKIE DOUGH FUNDRAISER
Order Forms DUE TUESDAY
Cookie Dough Fundraiser Order Forms were due in-class today.  Order forms may be brought to Cates Wednesday morning (2/2/12).  Forms turned in after Wednesday morning risk not being delivered before the last day of school.  IMPORTANT:  Be sure you have filled out your form completely (name and other info) and filled in the total number of items and total you must collect.
Money Turn-In
Money for fundraiser items isn't due until after you deliver the items.  If you have already collected the money you may turn it in now.  Many of you have done this.  IMPORTANT:  money must be submitted in the collection envelope provided and the collection envelope must be filled out completely.  If we cannot connect you to the money you turned in you will owe--this is bad.
Delivery Date
Once we have submitted our order the fundraising company will inform us of our delivery date.  When the date is announced plan accordingly to pick-up items that day.  Items will not be stored for pick-up on an alternate day.

RAIDER REVUE TICKETS
Raider Revue tickets are on sale now!  Tickets are: $6 in advance, $7 at the door, $5 for students and senior citizens (+65) and Free for children 10 and under. Each SMS Choir student is expected to sell 5 tickets.  Singers participating in a solo or small group must sell 10.  Additional tickets may be checked out in the choir room before or after class.

RAIDER REVUE TICKET SALES CONTEST
Students selling more that 15 Raider Revue tickets are eligible to participate in the Raider Revue Ticket Sales Contest.  Prizes will be given for the top 3 ticket-sellers who sell more than 15 tickets.

• 1st Prize:  iPod Touch
• 2nd Prize:  iPod Nano (in the color of your choice)
• 3rd Prize:  iPod Shuffle (in the color of your choice)

RAIDER REVUE T-SHIRTS
Each student must have a Raider Revue T-Shirt to perform in Raider Revue.  Concert attire for these performances will be:  Raider Revue T-Shirt, Blue Jeans (no holes), Clean/nice casual/tennis shoes appropriate for dancing.  There are two options to purchase your Raider Revue t-shirt.  All students must pay for their tshirt by Friday, May 4.

Raider Revue Tshirt Purchase Options

• CLICK HERE to purchase your shirt online.
• Turn-in $11 cash or a check made out to SMS Choir.  Payment will only be accepted in a sealed envelope clearly marked with:  Student Name, Raider Revue T-Shirt and the amount in the envelope.

RAIDER REVUE PROGRAM ADS
Click here for information about purchasing an ad for the Raider Revue program.  Ad information and payment is due Friday, May 4.

CHOIR AWARDS BANQUET
The Choir Awards Banquet is a time where we honor those students who have excelled in choir during the 2012-2013 School Year.  This year's banquet will be May 11, 5p dinner, 5:30p awards, before the Friday performance of Raider Revue.  If you plan to eat the meal catered by Cinzetti's you must have a paid reservation.  You may choose to attend the awards program only and arrive at 5:30p.

Banquet Reservations Options

• CLICK HERE to make a reservation and pay for the Choir Banquet online.
• CLICK HERE to download the invitation.  Return the form with payment (checks payable to SMS Choir) in a sealed envelope clearly marked with:  student name, Choir Banquet Reservation and the amount included.

PARENTS:  HELP...WE NEED SOMEBODY...HELP...
Parent volunteers are needed for both Raider Revue and the Choir Banquet.  We need ticket takers for both nights of Raider Revue, set-up and clean-up crew for the Banquet and much more.  If you would like to help please email Cates:  dustincates@smsd.org.

Cookie Dough Reminders

• Goal: 10 items
• Order Forms are Due: Tuesday, May 1 (late orders will not be accepted)
• You may collect money at the time of the order OR when you deliver the items

Raider Revue Tickets

RAIDER REVUE TICKETS were passed out in class today for students to begin selling. 

• Each SMS Choir student is expected to sell 5 tickets
• Soloists/small group participants must sell 10 tickets
• Ticket money/unsold tickets must be turned in May 9
• Students may check out additional tickets to sell

Ticket Prices

• $6 in advance
• $7 at the door
• $5 students/senior citizens 65+ (in advance or at the door)
• FREE children under 10 (no ticket needed)

Ticket Sales Contest

• Prizes will be awarded for our top ticket sellers:
• 1st - iPod Touch
• 2nd - iPod Nano
• 3rd - iPod Shuffle

*A student must sell at least 15 tickets to qualify for the contest.

Update: April 26

Trip Fund Fundraiser: Cookie Dough
Monday we kicked off our first-ever fundraiser dedicated to an all-new fund set aside specifically for SMS Choir trips.  All profit from the cookie dough fundraiser will go into our new trip fund and help lower trip related costs for SMS singers.  Great prizes are available for our top sellers!  Payment may be accepted when orders are taken or upon delivery.
Other important information:

• Order Forms are due by Tuesday, May 1
• When collecting, checks should be may payable to SMS Choir
• Online orders may be placed by using our online ID:  1086305
• Our exact delivery date cannot be determined until we have placed our order, however it will take place before the last day of school.

click to download:
Cookie Dough Brochure
Cookie Dough Order Form

 

State Solo/Ensemble Festival THIS SATURDAY
Solos and ensembles receiving a "1" rating at Regional Solo/Ensemble Festival will be participating in State Solo/Ensemble Festival this Saturday, April 28, at Emporia State University.  Important: singers are responsible for providing their own transportation to and from Emporia.  Performance times begin at 8a and don't end until 4:30p.  In the past we have provided a bus and had only a few riders due to students not wanting to stay the whole day.  If you need help with transportation see Cates ASAP.
click to download
State Solo/Ensemble Info
State Solo/Ensemble Schedule

 

Raider Revue Info
What is Raider Revue?
Raider Revue is SMS Choir's spring show.  The performance includes SMS Choirs, soloists and small groups.  Think Glee, but a little bit more like real life.  This year's show is a "BRITISH INVASION" and features music by English artists like Adele, The Beatles, Queen and more!  Performances are May 10 & 11 at 7:00p in the SMS Auditorium.  Solo and small group numbers change each night, be sure to purchase your tickets for both shows!
Auditions Results
Raider Revue Audition Results have been posted.  Thank you to all who auditioned.  If you have questions related to the results please see Cates.
Tickets
Raider Revue tickets are on sale now!  You can purchase them online or from an SMS Choir student.  Each SMS Choir student is expected to sell 5 tickets.  Singers who have a solo or are in a small group are expected to sell 10 tickets.  Prizes will be given to our top 3 ticket sellers.
Ticket Prices
$6.00 in advance; $7.00 at the door; $5.00 for students and senior citizens; FREE for children under 10
Note:  All non-performers (including parents) need a ticket for each performance of Raider Revue.  SMSD Gold Cards and Student IDs are not accepted as this is a SMS Choir Boosters sponsored event.
Raider Revue Program Ads
Purchase an ad to honor your SMS Choir student or advertise for your business in our Raider Revue program.  Ads are $100 - Full Page; $50 -Half Page; $25 - Quarter Page.  For more information CLICK HERE.

 

Seniors:  Pictures and Bios PAST DUE!
Seniors (and parents) if you haven't completed the items below please do so ASAP.  A "list of shame" including those students who haven't turned in pictures and/or bios will be published next week...DON'T BE ON IT!

• Email both a SENIOR PICTURE and a BABY PICTURE to Haley White, SMS Choir President at haley_white84@sbcglobal.net
• Complete your online SENIOR BIO FORM
• Purchase your RAIDER REVUE PROGRAM AD (optional)

 

Update: Friday, April 19

ATTENDANCE OFFICE ERROR FOR 4/18
The aattendance office staff made an error and only excused students in A Cappella Choir for our performance yesterday.  If you receive or have received a call saying that your child has an unexcused absence for yesterday it has been resolved.  Sorry for the inconvenience.

CONGRATS SMS CHOIRS!
SMS A Cappella Choir, Men's Choir and Women's Choir participated in the Kansas State High School Activities Association State Large Ensemble Festival.  All of our choirs received "I--Superior" ratings from all judges!  Outstanding work!

TRIP FUND-FUNDRAISER BEGINS MONDAY
In an effort to reduce the over-all cost related to SMS Choir trips the choir boosters has decided to provide an all-choir fundraising opportunity.  This fundraiser will contribute to a general SMS Choir Trip Fund that will benefit all choir students at one time or another.  Beginning Monday students will be selling frozen cookie dough.  While profits from this fundraiser will go to the trip fund, individual students will have the opportunity to earn great prizes!

RAIDER REVUE TICKETS: ON-SALE NEXT WEEK
Tickets for SMS Choir's end-of-the-year variety show, Raider Revue, will go on sale next week.  Each SMS Choir student will be asked to sell at least 5 tickets.  Students who are participating in a solo or small group act are asked to sell 10 tickets.  There will be 1st, 2nd and 3rd place prizes for our top ticket sellers!  Tickets are:  $6 in advance and $7 at the door, $5 for students/senior citizens, FREE for children under 10. 

STATE SOLO/ENSEMBLE FESTIVAL
All SMS solos and ensembles earning a 1 rating at Regional Solo/Ensemble at Blue Valley High School last Saturday will go on to perform at State Solo/Ensemble Festival on Saturday, April 28, at Emporia State University.  The schedule will be published late next week.  Soloists and ensembles will need to provide their own transportation to and from Emporia, otherwise each student will have to remain at the festival all day long.

UPCOMING EVENTS
A Cappella Choir Trip to St. Louis - April 20-22
Trip Fund-Fundraiser - April 23-27
State Solo/Ensemble Festival - April 28, Emporia State University

Update: Week of April 16

SMS Choirs:
I'm so excited for the judges, other directors and other choirs to hear you tomorrow at State Large Ensemble.  REMEMBER:  we have worked hard, we sound good.  We can't allow the non-musical details to distract us from our performance.  We will be AMAZING if we can be focused on our music and our performance!

See you bright and early tomorrow morning!
Cates

CONGRATS AGAIN REGIONAL SOLO/ENSEMBLE PARTICIPANTS
One more congratulations to all of our Regional Solo/Ensemble participants!  A list of the ratings has been posted at http://www.smschoir.com/ and on the choir Facebook page.

Soloists and ensembles who received a "1" rating on Saturday will move on to State Solo/Ensemble Festival on Saturday, April 28, at Emporia State University.

A CAPPELLA CHOIR MANDATORY TRIP MEETING TONIGHT
The final A Cappella Choir Trip meeting for those going to St. Louis will take place tonight at 6:30p in the choir room.  If you did not attend the meeting this morning you must attend tonight and submit the required forms.

STATE LARGE ENSEMBLE FESTIVAL TOMORROW
State Large Ensemble is tomorrow at Blue Valley Northwest High School.  All choir students must arrive at Shawnee Mission South at 6:15a.  For detailed schedule and permission slip CLICK HERE.

Regional Solo Ensemble Ratings

Regional Solo/Ensemble Ratings

Ensembles:
Chanticleers 1
Heritage Men 1
Heritage Women 1
Varsity Men 2
Heritage Singers 1
Women's Ensemble 2

Soloists:
Alex Rhein 1
Nico Caruso 1
Elena Rogers 1
Elizabeth Trites 1
Haley White 1
Skylar Olson 2
Christina Rabb 1
Alyssa Stillwell 2
Alex Vue 2
Ginger Seamon 2
Peter Strobel 2
Aaron Williams 1
Heinrich Dettmann 1
Adam Winney 2
Meg Horner 1
Rachel Fisher 1
Alex Yang 1
Alena Blackmore 1
Gabi Finkelstein 1
Leah Heathcote 1
Abbi Lopez 1
Eric Odum 1
Meshella Dupree 2
Taylor Pickering 1
Jacob Elliott 2
Michael Hicks 1
Will Cockriel 2

Solo/Ensemble

Regional Solo/Ensemble is TOMORROW, Saturday, April 14! 

Get a good nights sleep, review your music and be ready to be outstanding!

Visit http://www.smschoir.com/ to download the schedule and information sheet passed out in class.

Additional Raider Revue Audition Day

Due to a record number of audition sign-ups we have added an audition day for Raider Revue.

Auditions will take place:

• Today, from 3-5p in the choir room
• Tuesday, April 17, from 3-5p in the choir room

The current sign-up list will be divided in half.  The students who were first to sign-up will go today, the students lower on the list will go on Tuesday.  Students who haven't signed up yet will go on Tuesday.  Performers may only switch days if they trade with someone on the list.

Saturday vs. Wednesday

The two upcoming music festivals can be very confusing concerning what is happening when, where etc.  If you are confused read the blurbs below.  If you are STILL confused please email me: dustincates@smsd.org.

REGIONAL SOLO/ENSEMBLE FESTIVAL

• Saturday, April 14
• Blue Valley High School (transportation not provided)
• For the Schedule CLICK HERE
• For the Information Sheet CLICK HERE
• Includes:  Heritage Singers, Women's Choir Ensemble, Chanticleers, Varsity Men, A Cappella Men and soloists

STATE LARGE ENSEMBLE FESTIVAL

• Wednesday, April 18
• Blue Valley Northwest High School (transportation provided)
• Students will arrive at 6:15a for breakfast and warm-up (free food!)
• Performances times:  A Cappella Choir  8:00a, Men's Choir 8:25a, Women's Choir 8:45a
• For a schedule that lists all performances (band, choir and orchestra) CLICK HERE. 
• Includes: Selected Women's Choir singers, A Cappella Choir, Heritage Singers, Chanticleers and Varsity Men.

Update: Week of April 9

RAIDER REVUE AUDITIONS
Raider Revue auditions will be this Thursday, April 12 from 3-5p in the choir room.  A sign-up sheet for audition spots is up in the choir room.

*If you have checked out a book from the SMS music library to copy and still have it--PLEASE return it--we will need these for future Cabarets and Raider Revues.

SEMINAR REHEARSALS THIS THURSDAY
We will have our final combined Men's and Women's rehearsals this Thursday, April 12, during seminar.  Following our combined rehearsals we will also work with any solos or ensembles in prep for Regional Solo/Ensemble.  Seminar passes will be distributed in class--you must report to seminar first.

REGIONAL SOLO/ENSEMBLE THIS SATURDAY!
Regional Solo/Ensemble will be held this Saturday, April 14, all day, at Blue Valley High School.  Use the following links for the PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE and OTHER IMPORTANT INFORMATION.

A CAPPELLA CHOIR ST. LOUIS TRIP MEETING
There will be a required meeting for those A Cappella Choir singers and parents going on the St. Louis Trip on Tuesday, April 17.  Students and parents can choose from two meetings times: 7:00a or 6:30p.  Both meetings will be held in the choir room.

STATE LARGE ENSEMBLE NEXT WEDNESDAY!
All SMS Choirs students will participate in State Large Ensemble Festival next Wednesday, April 18.  Choir students will arrive at SMS at 6:15a for breakfast and warm-up.  We will board the buses and head to Blue Valley Northwest.  Parents and family are welcome to attend.  Performance times below:

• A Cappella Choir  8:00a
• Men's Choir 8:25a
• Women's Choir 8:45a

UPCOMING EVENTS
Seminar Rehearsals - April 12; Seminar; Choir Room
Raider Revue Auditions - April 12; 3-5p; Choir Room
Regional Solo/Ensemble - April 14; All Day; BVHS
A Cappella Trip Meeting - April 17; 7a/6:30p; Choir Room
State Large Ensemble - April 18; Morning Performances; BV Northwest

ATTENTION SENIORS!

Attention Choir Seniors (& Parents):

Please complete the following tasks as soon as possible so that we can properly honor you at our end-of-the-year events:

·        Complete the Choir Senior Bio Form   DUE APRIL 30

·        Email or submit a baby picture and senior picture to Haley White: haley_white84@sbcglobal.net DUE ASAP!

I will continue to send reminders thru April.  HOWEVER, IF YOU HAVE NOT TURNED IN YOUR PICTURES AND/OR BIO AFTER APRIL 30, DUE TO PRINTING DEADLINES, YOU RISK NOT BEING INCLUDED IN THE PROGRAM AND/OR SENIOR SLIDESHOW.  Not being included in the program and/or slideshow will make your mother extremely upset.  She will come to me, angry, and I will send her to you.

ENJOY YOUR WEEKEND!

Cates

PRE-FEST CONCERT CANCELED!

Due to scheduling conflicts with the auditorium our Pre-Festival Concert, scheduled for Thursday, April 5, has been canceled.  We will not reschedule the performance.  Enjoy your Thursday night!

CATES

50 Point Assignment

Due to the unusually large number of surprised looks and blank stares I receive when I discuss upcoming events and schedule I am giving an assignment to all choir students related to the blog.

All students and parents should be skimming each blog post for information that applies to them.  We cannot be our best if we haven't taken care of the details.

50 POINT ASSIGNMENT:

• Print this page
• Write your name, date and hour at the top
• Turn it in to the slot that belongs to your hour outside Cates' office by Thursday, April 5

Week of April 2, 2012

 MUSIC/FOLDER REMINDER
In the SMS Choral Department we are very lucky to have resources for all students to have their personal folder and music.  There are schools not even 10 miles away from South who can't afford to purchase new music.  Remember:  all SMS Choir students must have their folder/music each day and put that folder/music away at the end of each rehearsal.  Failure to bring folder/music to class and/or leaving the music sitting out in the room will result in a loss of daily participation points.

SOLOS
Soloists should be working on their solos daily.  If class time is given please utilize this to work on your solo.  Preparation = a confident, successful performance.  Remember:  accompanist fees should be paid by next week.

PRE-FESTIVAL CONCERT
Our Pre-Festival Concert is this Thursday, April 5, at 7:00p in the auditorium.  Students should arrive at 6:15p for warm-up.  The concert will feature our Combined Men's Choir, Combined Women's Choir, A Cappella Choir and our special guests the 8th Grade Choir from Indian Woods Middle School.  The concert is required for all choir students--200 points.  This concert will be very short, it should only last 45 min to an hour.

RAIDER REVUE T-SHIRT ORDER
All students performing in our end-of-the-year variety show, Raider Revue, are required to have a Raider Revue T-Shirt. If you are a returning choir member you do not need to purchase a new shirt--we use the same design each year.  If you are new to choir please CLICK HERE to submit your size.  Shirt money will be collected soon, but we need to sizes to determine how many we will order.  Sizes must be submitted by April 13.

SENIORS:  BABY AND SENIOR PICS DUE ASAP
Choir seniors must submit their baby pictures and senior pictures to choir president Haley White ASAP for the choir senior presentation at the end of Raider Revue.  Email photos to: haley_white84@sbcglobal.net

RAIDER REVUE AUDITIONS
In the midst of all of our contest prep we also need to get the ball rolling for Raider Revue!  We will have Raider Revue auditions on Thursday, April 12 at 3p.  There is a sign-up sheet in the choir room for auditions.
Reminders:
Each singer may audition up to 4 times:  2 solos and 2 small groups/duets
Must doesn't not need to be memorized, but prepared
If you are using Ms. Willbanks as an accompanist please schedule rehearsal ahead of the audition.  Students who have not previously practiced with Ms. Willbanks will not be allowed to audition.
Be creative!  It makes the show fun!

REGIONAL SOLO/ENSEMBLE
Regional Solo/Ensemble will take place Saturday, April 14 at Blue Valley High School.  I received notification today that the schedule will be available on Wednesday.  Once the schedule is released we will do our best to resolve conflicts, however, students will be expected to resolve any conflict they may have to attend.  Regional Solo/Ensemble includes students who have prepared a solo for contest or are participating in an ensemble.  Students will need to provide their own transportation to and from Blue Valley High School.  Additional details will be distributed with the schedule.

The Choir/Band/Orchestra Boosters will host a table in the commons area at BVHS with snacks and water for our soloists and ensembles.  If you would like to help please contact Choir Boosters President, Barb Trites at president@smschoir.com.

A CAPPELLA ST. LOUIS TRIP MEETING
All A Cappella Choir members attending the St. Louis choir trip must attend final meeting on April 17 at 7:00a or 6:30p. 

STATE LARGE ENSEMBLE
A Cappella Choir, Combined Men's Choir and Combined Women's Choir (includes all choir students), will participate in State Large Ensemble Festival on, Wednesday, April 18 at Blue Valley Northwest High School.  The festival takes place during the school day.  Singers will need to arrive at SMS at 6:15a for warm-up (Continental breakfast provided).  We will board the buses and travel to BVNW.  Our performance times are as follows: 

• A Cappella Choir  8:00a
• Men's Choir 8:25a
• Women's Choir 8:45a

Parents are welcome to attend!

Parents interested in helping with serving breakfast can contact Barb Trites, Choir Boosters President at president@smschoir.com.

UPCOMING EVENTS
Pre-Festival Concert Dress Rehearsal - April 5, Seminar, in the Choir Room
Pre-Festival Concert - April 5, call 6:15p, concert 7:00p
Raider Revue Auditions - April 12, 3-5p, Choir Room
Regional Solo/Ensemble Festival - April 14, Schedule TBA, BVHS
A Cappella Choir Trip Meeting - April 17, 7a/6:30p, Choir Room
State Large Ensemble - April 18, Morning Performances, BVNWHS

Update: Friday, 3/30

CONTEST SOLOISTS
Reminders

• All accompanist fees must be paid before April 14.
• All soloists are responsible for securing 2 real copies of their songs.  One copy for the accompanist and one for the judge.  Judges copies must also have number measures.  Using photocopies and judges music without measure numbers will result in disqualification by KSHAA. 
• Soloists who are borrowing books from the SMS music library must locate, label and number those books immediately.

PRE-FESTIVAL CONCERT NEXT THURSDAY
Our Pre-Festival Concert is Thursday, April 5, at 7:00p, in the SMS Auditorium.  This concert is to prepare our large ensembles to go to State Large Ensemble Festival which will take place on April 18 at Blue Valley Northwest High School.  Student call time for the concert will be 6:15p.  The concert is required for all choir students (200 points).

RAIDER REVUE AUDITIONS
Auditions for this year's Raider Revue will be Thursday, April 12, after-school, in the choir room.  Audition sign-ups are in the choir room. 
Audition Details

• Students may audition with a total of 4 numbers (2 solos and 2 duets or small groups)
• Variety and creativity is key!
• Music does not need to be memorized, however it MUST be prepared.
• Vocal performances must have some sort of accompaniment, no tracks.
• If you would like to have the Raider Revue band play with you (drums, bass, guitar, piano) you must give a copy of your music to Cates at the time of your audition.
• Our theme for this year's group numbers is "British Invasion"--solo acts are encouraged to try to keep with the theme, but, quality, variety and creativity are most important.
• IMPORTANT:  Ms. Willbanks will not be playing for those students who do not practice with her in advance.

REGIONAL SOLO/ENSEMBLE
Regional Solo/Ensemble Festival is Saturday, April 14 at Blue Valley High School.  The schedule for the event has not been published, however, students participating in multiple ensembles and a solo should plan to be there from morning until late afternoon.  Once the schedule is released it will be available in the choir room and at http://www.smschoir.com/.

A CAPPELLA CHOIR ST. LOUIS TRIP MANDATORY MEETING
A mandatory meeting for the A Cappella Choir St. Louis Trip will take place Tuesday, April 17.  In an effort to have everyone attend we will have the meeting two times--once at 7:00a and once at 6:30p.  Both meetings will take place in the choir room.  At the meeting will will turn in health forms, copies on student insurance cards, review SMS Choir Trip Rules and pass out our final itinerary. 

  

UPCOMING EVENTS
Pre-Festival Concert - April 5, 7:00p; SMS Auditorium; Call 6:15p
Regional Solo-Ensemble Festival - April 14, Blue Valley High School; Schedule TBA
State Large Ensemble Festival - April 18, Morning Performances; BV Northwest HS
For an up-to-date calendar of events check the homepage of www.smschoir.com.

Update: March 26, 2012

SMS Choir Students & Parents:
We are in full "contest mode"in SMS Choir!  Weather this is your first year in choir or you are a returning member, please pay close attention to all of the information provided on blog posts and in class--you don't want to miss any details!

Peace.
Cates

SOLO/ENSEMBLE RECITAL TOMORROW!
We will host our annual Solo/Ensemble Recital tomorrow, March 27, beginning at 6:30p in the choir room at SMS. Student call time is 6:15p.

The recital will feature all SMS Choir soloists and small ensembles planning to perform at Regional Solo/Ensemble Festival.  Each ensemble and soloist will perform one of their two pieces for two judges.  Judges will provide written, constructive comments for performers to use to polish their numbers before the festival on April 14.

Performers must dress up for the recital (we will not wear choir robes, choir dresses etc.).  Students do not have to stay for the entire recital.  Parents, friends and family are welcome to attend.

CONTEST SOLOIST FEES/MUSIC

• The SMS Choir Boosters covers the entry fees for all soloists.  Should a soloist opt to cancel his or her solo a $10.00 cancelation fee will be charged.
• All soloists should have previously arranged for an accompanist to play for them.  All accompanist fees must be paid before the festival on April 14.
• All soloists are responsible for aquiring 2 real copies of their songs.  One copy for the accompanist and one for the judge.  Judges copies must also have number measures.  Photo copies and must without measure numbers will result in soloist disqualification.  Music may be checked our from the SMS Music Library, however, multiple students may be using the same book--Mr. Cates and Ms. Willbanks will not manage the trade off of books--indivudal soloists must do so.
• Photo copies are permissiable for the recital tomorrow, however music must still have measure numbers.

2012-2013 CHANTICLEERS, HERITAGE SINGERS & A CAPPELLA CHOIR RESULTS
Results for Chanticleers, Heritage Singers and A Cappella Choir at available on the bulletin board outside of the choir room and will be posted on the docs page of http://www.smschoir.com/ this week.  Thanks to everyone who auditioned!   The decisions were tough! 

PRE-FESTIVAL CONCERT
Our Pre-Festival Concert is Thursday, April 5, at 7:00p, in the SMS Auditorium.  This concert is to prepare our large ensembles to go to State Large Ensemble Festival which will take place on April 18 at Blue Valley Northwest High School.  Student call time for the concert will be 6:15p.  The concert is required for all choir students (200 points).

inCHOIRing MINDS BLOG UPDATES
Because of this busy time I'll do my best to update the blog a few times a week to keep everyone up-to-date.

UPCOMING EVENTS
Solo-Ensemble Recital - March 27, 6:30p; SMS Choir Room; Call 6:15p
Pre-Festival Concert - April 5, 7:00p; SMS Auditorium; Call 6:15p
Regional Solo-Ensemble Festival - April 14, Blue Valley High School; Schedule TBA
State Large Ensemble Festival - April 18, Morning Performances; BV Northwest HS
For an up-to-date calendar of events check the homepage of www.smschoir.com.

Update: Spring Break Edition

Hope everyone is enjoying SPRING BREAK!  Having a blast with Emmaus at Disney World! :-)

HERITAGE AUDITION LINKS POSTED

Heritage Singers auditions will be Thursday, March 22.  Use the link on the home page of the choir website to access general audition information as well as practice tracks.  CLICK HERE

2012-2013 CHANTICLEERS/A CAPPELLA CHOIR AUDITION RESULTS

I will post audition results on the home page of the choir website as soon as all of the auditions have been reviewed.  Thanks for being patient.  :-)

IMPORTANT - DATE CHANGES

Solo/Ensemble Recital changed to Tuesday, March 27, 6:30p.  Location TBA

Pre-Festival Concert changed to Thursday, April 5, 7:00p, Auditorium

ATTENTION CONTEST SOLOISTS:

Sped a little time over spring break looking at your second solo that must be memorized a week after we return from spring break!  Remember:  the more prepared you are the more confident you will be when you perform.

RAIDER REVUE SOLO/SMALL ACT AUDITIONS

This year's Raider Revue will feature a BRITISH INVASION!  All SMS Choirs will be singing two numbers by artists from Great Britain (The Beatles, Adele, Cold Play, Mika, The Spice Girls, Queen).  We will audition for solo and small group acts shortly after we return from spring break.  All SMS Choir students are encouraged to audition with an act!  Each student may audition with a total of 2 solos and two duets or small groups.  Lead vocals in each group must be a singer in an SMS Choir.  Students from other schools may not perform in your group.  CREATIVE and FUNNY is good!  Solos and small acts are encouraged to keep with the BRITISH INVASION theme, but, QUALITY and ENTERTAINMENT VALUE is the most important.

HAVE FUN AND BE SAFE!

Update 3/1/12

SMSD CHORAL FEST NEXT WEEK
The SM Choral Festival is next Tuesday at SM Northwest. A Cappella Choir should be at our designated warm-up location no later than 6:15p. This event is for A Cappella Choir. Other students may attend, but it is not required.

PAYING FOR CHOIR STUFF
We are making every effort to run any payment for choir-related items thru our website. Cash and checks will only be accepted by Cates if it has been placed in an envelope and is marked with student name, what the payment is for and the amount.

One more week till spring break!!

Women's Rehearsal

There will be a rehearsal for ALL SMS Choir Women tomorrow from 3-4 in the choir room.

Update: Thursday, February 16

Musical: "Drowsy Chaperone" Opens TONIGHT
Get your tickets to see the SMS Music & Theatre production of the broadway hit, "Drowsy Chaperone"!  The show opens tonight!  Performances: Thursday, 7p; Friday 7p; Saturday 2p & 7p.  Tickets may be purchased at www.smstheatre.com

Required Combined Men's/Women's Rehearsals next week
We take 3 large choirs to contest each year.  One of the three ensembles is our A Cappella Choir.  The other two are a Combined Men's and Combined Women's Choir.  These groups are made up of men and women from all of our SMS choral ensembles.  Because these combined choirs do not rehearse together we must hold a few rehearsals outside of class.  Our first combined rehearsals will take place next week:  Men on February 21 and Women on February 22 from 3-4p in the choir room.  These rehearsals are worth 150 points each.


Heritage Singers to Perform for COR Lenten Concert Series
Heritage Singers will perform at Noon on February 22 for the first in Church of the Resurrection's series of concerts during the season of lent.  The concerts are free to the public and held in the Narthex of the West Building of the Leawood Campus.

KMEA/All-State Choir Next Week
Next week three of our SMS singers, Will Cockriel, Nico Caruso and Sarah Stevens will travel to tropical Wichita, KS to represent SM South in the Kansas All-State Choir.  Best of luck to these outstanding SMS singers!

Contest Solo Memorization Deadline
All students who plan to take solos to contest must have one of their selections memorized before spring break.  Reminders:  soloists should be working with a voice teacher or vocal coach weekly, soloists are responsible for securing the services (and paying) of an accompanist.

Trivia Night--HUGE SUCCESS
Thanks to everyone who helped make this year's Trivia Night a success.  The event was one of our largest to date!  A special thank you to Mr. Tom Heathcote for his organizational efforts!

Trivia Night tables

We are at 13 tables... 7 more! Visit www.smschoir.com to reserve your table. If you plan to pay at the door email treasurer@smschoir.com to let us know you're coming.

Summer Conservatory @ UMKC

Partly because its my Alma Mater and primarily because its an awesome singing opportunity, I highly reccomend UMKC's Summer Conservatory for Singers as a "summer music camp" opportunity for our serious SMS singers.  I attend music camp every summer as a high school student and I can't tell you how valuable the expereince was (and it was TONS of fun!).

I've attached the information I received in the mail.

Peace.
CATES

CLICK HERE FOR UMKC SUMMER CONSERVATORY FOR SINGERS INFO

Trivia Night Table Update

We are ALMOST halfway to our goal! Reserve you table at www.smschoir.com

Have you reserved your TRIVIA NIGHT table?

Trivia Night is THIS Saturday!  Log on to http://www.smschoir.com/ and reserve your table TODAY!  Help us reach our goal of 20 tables!

Boosters Meeting TONIGHT

SMS Choir Parents:
Don't forget about our ONE AND ONLY general SMS Choir Boosters Meeting TONIGHT at 6:30p in the Choir Room. 

See you there!
Cates

Choir Boosters Meeting: THIS THURSDAY

SMS Choir Parents:

As you begin to plan your schedules for next week please include our ONE AND ONLY general Choir Boosters meeting for this year, Thursday, February 2, 2012 at 6:30p in the Choir Room.  We will keep the meeting short (30-45 min.)

At the meeting we will discuss upcoming choir events as well as begin to discuss leadership opportunities for 2012-2013.

I hope to see you there!

Peace.
CATES

Update - January 25, 2012

MASTERWORKS SEMINAR DRESS REHEARSAL
Tomorrow all choirs will report directly to the choir room for seminar.  We will spend the entire block rehearsing with the orchestra and preparing for the concert.

MASTERWORKS CONCERT TOMORROW!
Thursday, January 26, 2012
Concert 7:00p (a reception will follow in the cafeteria)
Student Call - 6:15p
All choirs will wear robes.  Under robes: MEN: black pants, black socks, black dress shoes; WOMEN: Black character shoes OR closed-toe dress shoes.
This concert is required for all choir students - 200 points.

GENERAL CHOIR BOOSTERS MEETING - FEB. 2
ALL PARENTS are encouraged to attend our ONLY general boosters meeting for the year on Thursday, Febuary 2, at 6:30p in the choir room.  The meeting will last 30-45 min.  If you are a choir parent and you are looking to plug in and help--WE WANT YOU!  Contact Choir Boosters President, Dr. Barb Trites with questions president@smschoir.com

RESERVE YOUR TRIVIA NIGHT TABLE TODAY!
All choir families should have received an invitation in the mail this week to host a table at TRIVIA NIGHT!  This year's TRIVIA NIGHT is Saturday, February 11.  Doors open at 6:00p and trivia rounds begin at 6:30p.  Round of 8-10 or your friends and family and reseve your table today!  Our goal this year is 20 tables.  We need 15 more! Visit http://www.smschoir.com/ to reserve your table online!  CLICK HERE for more info!

Update: January 19, 2012

9 SPOTS LEFT FOR A CAPPELLA ST. LOUIS TRIP
There are 9 spots left for the A Cappella Choir trip to St. Louis (April 20-22).  If you are interested in going on the trip please contact Mr. Tom Heathcote, Choir Boosters Trip Chair:  trips@smschoir.com

MASTERWORKS CONCERT THIS THURSDAY
Our 2012 Masterworks Concert is this Thursday, January 26.  The concert features the SMS band, choir and orchestra and our Masterworks soloists.  The concert is required for all choir students (200 points).  Non-performing students will attend as a spectator.

Student Call time: 6:15p (in concert attire)
Concert: 7:00p, a reception in honor of our soloists will follow the concert in the cafeteria

TRIVIA NIGHT!
TRIVIA! PRIZES! FUN!  Round up 8-10 of your friends and family and come to SMS Choir's TRIVIA NIGHT on February 11!  Doors open at 6p and trivia rounds begin at 6:30p.  Our goal for this year's Trivia Night is 20 tables.  Be on the look-out for your invitation in the mail to sponsor a table!  Online reservations/payment for Trivia Night will be up soon!

NEW WAY TO PAY!

We are moving to ONLINE PAY for the various SMS Choir related payments.  Currently you can pay TRIP DEPOSITS, purchase T-SHIRTS and other SMS CHOIR GEAR and become a PATRON by visiting the TRIPS & GEAR page of the choir website.

CLICK HERE TO CHECK IT OUT!

Update: Friday, January 13

SMS Choir Students & Parents:
Welcome to those choir students and parents who are new to the inCHOIRing Minds Blog!  In addition to preparing for our upcoming Masterworks concert we have been busy this week collecting and double checking contact information.  With as many students as we have in choir it is SO important that we are able to communicate effectivly.  If you missed one of the ways to connect:  the blog subscription, text sign-up and facebook and twitter links are all on the home page of http://www.smschoir.com/.

Have a great weekend!

Peace.
Cates

MASTERWORKS CONCERT
The Masterworks concert is our annual combined concert with the band and the orchestra.  The evening features performances by our student masterworks soloists (Taylor Pickering is our choir soloist) as well as performances by the band, orchestra and choir.  This year's choir selection for the concert is the Mark Hayes, Te Deum.  The FULL orchestra will accompany the choir on this piece.  It will be truly outstanding.  An evening you won't want to miss.

Mark your calendars ->  Thursday, January 26
Student call time: 6:15p; Concert 7:00p
REQUIRED FOR ALL CHOIRS

For other events check http://www.smschoir.com/