Prelude Choir

This choir is open to first through third graders who have a basic sense of pitch and a strong desire to sing. Students who have had good attendance, behavior and musical growth are promoted to Concert Choir starting in fourth grade. Prelude Choir is a process oriented vocal training ensemble. Choir members learn how to read a choral score, create an ensemble using Orff instruments and also learn the proper way to stand, breathe and create a healthy singing tone.

The children participate in Orff based activities, including movement and the use of percussion instruments, with an emphasis on listening skills and healthy vocal production. Students are encourages to explore their love of singing and music through folk literature and imaginative play.

Concert Choir

(Fourth grade and higher) is a training choir emphasizing vocal production, music reading and performance skills. Students are expected to demonstrate readiness for a disciplined environment in which singers work creatively together to accomplish the communication of text through song.

Master Singers

(6th grade or higher with previous experience) is a performance choir for students who exhibit a strong desire to sing and also demonstrate focus and commitment to the choir’s extended rehearsal and performance schedule. Students are expected to perform at a high level of expertise, often sight reading the score and singing in multiple parts.

Bella Rosa

(High school girls with extensive choir experience) is the senior group of the Red Rose Children’s Choir. Singers are expected to demonstrate outstanding vocal independence and sight reading skills.

Curriculum

The curriculum is designed to achieve the following qualities in each singer’s development as a choir member:

  • a healthy use of the voice as a musical instrument
  • improved reading and listening skills
  • increased self-esteem and self-discipline
  • a sense of community and teamwork
  • an appreciation of the musical arts

Repertoire

The repertoire of the Red Rose Children’s Choir is based on folk literature from various cultures and classical choral music. Songs are sung in the original language as often as possible. The choir performs sacred and secular music. On occasion, the choir will explore other musical styles such as avant-garde, jazz, and musical theater. All choirs will utilize movement during warm-ups and also specific repertoire when appropriate.

Rehearsal Location

Holy Cross Lutheran Church
29700 N. St. Mary’s Road
Libertyville, IL
Rehearsal Schedule

Prelude Choir Wednesdays 4:15- 5:30 p.m.
Concert Choir Wednesdays 5:30 – 6:45 p.m.
Master Singers Tuesdays 5:30-7:00 p.m.
Bella Rosa Tuesdays 7-8:45 p.m.

*Occasional extra rehearsals are required before performances.

Rehearsal Content

Rehearsals include an initial period of warming up the bodies and voices for singing followed by the singing of repertoire. Instruction for proper vocal training are stressed throughout. Every child is encouraged and assisted in developing his/her singing ability to its fullest extent. In addition, the child will grow in basic musicianship. The music directors conduct rehearsals so that attention is given to the mechanics of music. Physical (vocal) and also cognitive skills are enhanced as students are led to observe, understand and execute the indications on the printed music.

While the conductors strive to prepare fine music with the utmost skill and precision, we also inspire joy and fun. We desire to have every child experience the exhilaration of lifting voices in song, the camaraderie of belonging to a committed group and the pride of working together in a positive environment to create something truly wonderful. Laughter is part of every rehearsal!