(324) Freshman Choir (Open to freshmen only; Full year, 1 credit)

In this class students work toward team-building, sharing responsibility, and respecting others. They learn and improve proper vocal production, range, breath support, music reading skills, and listening skills. Appreciation for various styles of choral music is stressed. There are two major performances per year. The purchase of a choir dress is required.

(325) Concert Choir (Open to sophomores, juniors and seniors; Full year, 1 credit)

Students work toward team-building, sharing responsibility, and respect for others. They improve vocal production, range, breath support, music reading skills, and listening skills. Expanded appreciation for various styles of choral music is stressed. There are two major performances per year. The purchase of a choir dress is required for those who were not members of freshman choir.

(329) Advanced Vocal Ensemble (Open to sophomores, juniors and seniors by audition; Full year, 1 credit)

This is a chamber choir whose members serve as “musical ambassadors” to school and community. Emphasis is on proper vocal production, intonation, musicality, solo and choral repertoire, and music reading. Students work toward team-building, sharing responsibility, and respecting others, with many opportunities for performances throughout the year. Purchase of a choir dress is required.

(3333) Symphonic Orchestra (Grades 9-12; Full year, 1 credit)

Symphonic Orchestra is a performance ensemble comprised of string instruments (Violin, Viola, Cello, and String Bass), Woodwind, Brass, and Percussion (including piano), guitar and electric bass. The group studies artistically, intellectually, and emotionally challenging band and orchestra literature ranging from traditional to contemporary styles. Improving individual musicianship and technique are emphasized as well as player collaboration to assure success as an ensemble. Symphonic Orchestra meets twice a cycle in sectionals (strings/woodwind, brass, and percussion), and twice a cycle as a whole ensemble within the regular school day. Students are required to practice outside of school for at least 40 minutes per week.

Symphonic Orchestra performs at two concerts (winter and spring), LH Open House in the fall and Discover Lauralton in the spring. Musicians are expected to have some prior experience on their instrument, but new students are encouraged to join! Opportunities also exist for students to learn additional instruments, and perform in smaller groups with teacher approval. Senior instrumentalists are featured in the spring concert. Attendance is mandatory at all scheduled performances, including the two formal rehearsals the day prior to each concert. Purchase of a concert outfit is required.

Jazz Orchestra (Grades 9-12; Full Year, ½ credit)

Jazz Orchestra is an advanced performance group comprised of approximately 20 to 25 students selected from within the Symphonic Orchestra, but is also open to Lauralton students who are not enrolled in Symphonic Orchestra. The ensemble will be exposed to many different styles including jazz, blues, swing and rock. Students will perform pieces that allow them to further interpret rhythms, harmony, theory, and be introduced to improvisation. The group performs at the Christmas and spring concerts as well as having the opportunity to perform at other events during the year. There will also be opportunities to attend festivals/contests in the spring. Attendance at performances is mandatory, especially due to the smaller size of the group. Rehearsals will take place during regular class time, with a few brief practices scheduled outside of the regular class schedule.

Lauralton Hall United Percussion is a competitive ensemble based out of Lauralton Hall. This unique group is open not only to students from Lauralton Hall, but students throughout Fairfield and New Haven counties. We have members ranging from middle school to college age. The ensemble competes in the Musical Arts Conference (MAC). LH United has won multiple championships since its inception in 2012/2013 and has received the top rating of Platinum at the Great East Music Festival for many years. Besides melodic and marching percussion, the group also incorporates guitars, bass, strings, piano, color guard, theater performers, and sometimes singers. The ensemble learns a 5-6 minute show playing music from numerous genres. We incorporate moderate to advanced choreography, acting skills, props and costumes to tell a story. Students learn percussive techniques, musicianship, and movement skills in addition to collaborative and leadership skills.

Lauralton Hall United Percussion rehearsals start in November and continue through April. Rehearsals are Tuesday and Thursdays from 6-8:30pm @ Lauralton Hall. Competition season begins in March and culminates in April with MAC Championships and a performance at the Lauralton Hall Spring Concert. For further information, please contact Mr. Allen: mallen@lauraltonhall.org

For more information about Milford United Percussion please contact Mark Allen at mallen@lauraltonhall.org.