WCS Music Dept Happenings

6-12 Pops Concert

2012-01-26T16:25:00.000-08:00

The 6-12 Pops Concert will be Thursday, February 23rd at 7pm in the old gym. (Please note that this is a change from our originally scheduled date, which conflicted with the district basketball tournament schedule.) Drinks and refreshments will be available, and there is an admission fee of $3/adult and $2/student. All 6-12 band and vocal students will perform at this event. High school music students are asked to provide one pan of a dessert of their choice. Please note that this is a change from years past. Recipe requests will NOT be sent home. It is a potluck dessert bar. When choosing what dessert to bring, please keep in mind that we will not have a fridge or freezer available in the old gym. Students are asked to have their desserts delivered by 6pm so Music Parent volunteers have time to cut and plate them for serving. PLEASE MARK YOUR PANS WITH YOUR NAME for easy return. We are also hoping to have a silent auction at this concert, pending the donation of enough items. If anyone is interested in donating an auction item, please contact the school at 784-3615. Thank you for your support of the music department!

SWICDA HS Honor Choir

2012-01-26T16:22:00.000-08:00

The Southwest Iowa Choral Directors' Association's High School Honor Choir will be held at Iowa Western Community College in Council Bluffs on Thursday, Feb. 2nd. Students from all over Southwest Iowa will perform in a 7pm concert that night, which is open to the public for a small admission fee. Attending from Walnut are Lucas Blum, Dakota Brockmann, Madison Hamilton, Breanna Kixmiller, Amy Loverin, and Emily Mitchell.

State Show Choir Contest

2012-01-26T16:21:00.000-08:00

State Show Choir Contest is Monday, January 30th at Atlantic High School. Walnut HS Show Choir performs at 1:52. The contest is open to the public for a small admission fee.

Music Parents Meeting

2012-01-26T16:19:00.000-08:00

The January Music Parents meeting will be held Saturday, Jan. 28th at 8am in the band room. Please plan to attend, as plans are being made and duties are being assigned for the up-coming Pops Concert and Music Carnival.

SCHWAN'S TRUCKLOAD SALE

2011-11-29T13:48:00.000-08:00

The Walnut Music Parents Organization invites you to a Schwan's Truckload Sale that we will be hosting at the school in conjunction with the 6th-12th grades' Winter Concert. Schwan's representatives will be at the school 4:00-8:30pm on Thursday, December 8th. If you wish to preorder for quicker pickup that evening, you may place an online order at www.schwansfundraising.com by midnight on Tuesday, Dec. 6th. If you would like to order gift certificates, visit www.schwans.com or call (888) 724-9267 by midnight on Dec. 8th, the evening of the concert. Please use campaign ID # 37730 for internet or phone orders so the Walnut Music Parents will receive full credit for your order. The Music Parents would like to thank the community for their continued support of our young musicians at Walnut Community School. Don't forget to join us on Thursday, December 1st for our Elementary Winter Concert and on Thursday, December 8th for our Middle and High School Winter Concert - both concerts begin at 7:00pm.

Vocal Music Calendar 2011-2012

2011-11-29T13:38:00.000-08:00

2nd & 3rd Quarters: 7:00am T/Th Show Choir practice
Tues. Sept. 6: begin food fund-raiser
Tues. Nov. 8: Rolling Hills Conference Choir
Festival @ Glidden, day time rehearsal, 7pm concert
Fri. Nov. 11: Veterans’ Day Assembly, 10:15am
Thurs. Dec. 1: Elementary Winter Concert, 7:00pm
Thurs. Dec. 8: MS/HS Winter Concert, 7:00pm
Mon. Jan. 30: State Show Choir Contest
Thurs. Feb. 2: SWICDA HS Honor Choir @ IWCC
(select few to participate)
Thurs. Feb. 16: Pops Concert, 7:00pm
Sat. Feb. 18: Indianola Show Choir Contest
Fri. March 2: Music Carnival
Sat. March 10: Bellevue East Jazz Fest
(Show Choir only)
Tues. March 13: ICDA 5th – 8th Grade Honor Choir
@ Atlantic, day time rehearsal, 7:00pm concert
Thurs. April 5: Elementary Spring Concert, 7:00pm
Sat. April 14: State Small Group Contest
Tues. May 3: MS/HS Spring Concert, 7:00pm
Fri. May 4: State Large Group Contest
Wed. May 9: Baccalaureate (not 100% certainty that we will perform, but this is the date for this event)
Thurs. May 10?: Academic Awards Night (not sure if this
is the final date, but letters will be distributed here)
Sun. May 13: Graduation 2:00pm

Frozen food is in! Time for poinsettias!

2011-10-19T06:39:00.001-07:00

The Deli International frozen food items which were sold by music students last month arrive TODAY! Deliveries will begin as soon as school is dismissed. Thank you very much to those who supported this fund raiser!
Now it's time to order your poinsettias for the holidays! Area churches have been provided with an order form, but you can also contact Teri Harmon at the school to place an order. Poinsettias are $10 each. Color choices are red, white, pink, or marble. The deadline for ordering is Monday, November 7th. Delivery to local businesses will be Wednesday, November 23rd, just prior to the Christmas Antique Walk. The delivery date for others will be Thursday, December 1st. Arrangements can be made for personal delivery if necessary, or you can pick them up at the school that afternoon or at the Elementary Winter Concert that night.

Frozen Food Fund-Raiser

2011-09-10T07:09:00.001-07:00

The 6-12 vocal students and 5-12 band students began sales for their Deli Interntational frozen food fund-raiser this week. Sales will continue through Sept. 19, with food delivery the week of Oct. 10. If you would like to purchase some frozen pizza, cookie dough, or other tasty treat, and are not contacted by a music student, please call Teri Harmon at the school: 712-784-3615. You can also view the brochure we are using at: http://www.tobafoods.com/deli/images/FamilyFavorites07-11.pdf Unfortunately, there is no online purchase option, so you will have to contact Teri to make your purchase. Checks are to be made payable to the Walnut Music Parents, and money must be submitted by the Sept. 19 deadline to secure your order.

Schwan's Sale

2011-03-07T12:43:00.001-08:00

Apparently Schwan's had a computer glitch and needs to double check that the Music Parents received credit for everyone who ordered online for the carnival fund raiser. I don't need to know what you ordered, just *if* you ordered, please let me know. Thanks, and sorry for the hassle!! ~Mrs. Kock

Carnival Work Schedule

2011-02-21T13:32:00.000-08:00

Dear Music Parents,
It is that time of the school year again! This year’s Music Carnival will be held on Friday, March 4th at 6:30p.m. starting in the OLD gym. As a reminder, a Music Parent is any parent having a child in 5th-12th grade band or 6th-12th grade chorus.
The Music Carnival is the Music Parents Organization’s biggest fundraising project. All of the money we raise goes to the Walnut Music Department. Some of the things we paid for this year included cleaning the band uniforms and show choir outfits, and donating money to two students to participate in the Southwest Iowa Honor Marching Band which performed at the Fiesta Bowl Parade. We purchased new flag outfits, marching band accessories, and new show choir shoes for several students. We also fund show choir contests, with the exception of state contest.
The program portion of the evening begins at 6:30 when the High School Show Choir performs. The 2011 Royalty have been selected by the music students, and the king and queen will be crowned during the program. The Carnival will immediately follow in the NEW gym.
There are three shifts for the Carnival. The first two shifts will be working the game booths. The third shift will be the clean-up committee. However, for those of you listed to work the game booths second shift, please take a few minutes to tidy your area and take down the tables in order to make the packing up and putting away go more smoothly for the clean-up committee. The first shift will begin directly after the program and end at 8:00. The second shift will start at 8:00 and ends at 9:00p.m. The clean-up shift will begin directly at 9:00 when the Carnival is over.
New this year, instead of a raffle, will be a Schwan’s truckload sale at the school from 4:00-9:00. Pre-orders are welcomed and encouraged, and can be made online at: www.schwansfundraising.com or by contacting Cyndi Jensen at 784-3768. Our event number, which is necessary for internet pre-orders, is 33096. If you are a regular Schwan’s customer and “don’t need” more Schwan’s food from a school event, please consider purchasing yourself a gift card through this program. Your gift card purchases can then be used for your home orders in the future, and the music department gets a percentage of the gift card purchase. Gift cards must be purchased online or via phone, and cannot be used at the truckload event. Music students will be distributing Schwan’s catalogs and order information.
Advance game ticket sales will be available Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday (March 2nd-5th) starting at 3:00p.m. outside of the 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade rooms. The price of advance tickets will be five for $1. Tickets purchased at the door will be four for $1.
Thursday evening at 6:00p.m. we will be setting up the games in the new gym. The more people that can come and help, the sooner we can get done – we would love to have your help!
Each family is asked to bring a cake, pie, or other baked goods for the Cakewalk. (We encourage you to bring more than one!) These baked goods should be taken to the band room. It is very important that each family contributes a cake, pie, or baked goods, because they are total profit for the music department.
IF YOU ARE UNABLE TO FULFILL YOUR DUTIES AS LISTED IN THIS LETTER, YOU MUST FIND YOUR OWN REPLACEMENTS. Please contact one of the following parents to let them know the name of your replacement. Thank you for your support, and we hope you enjoy the program and the Carnival!
Michelle Mertz – 784-3674 Julie Kixmiller – 784-3525
Ticket Sellers
1st – M/M David Franks (Ticket sales only – 1st shift starts at 6 p.m.)
2nd - M/M Russell Finnell (Ticket sales only – 2nd shift starts at 7:30p.m.)

First shift for the game booth begins right after the program and finishes at 8:00.
Second shift for the game booths begins at 8:00 and lasts until the end of the Carnival at 9:00.

Redemption Table
1st – M/M Rob Sampson
M/M Steve Brockmann
2nd – M/M Rick Heiny
M/M Trace Frahm
Darla Ehlers
Face Painting
1st – Kandy Dea
Samantha Jensen
Megan Ehlers
2nd – Ellen Holtz
Madison Hamilton
Haley Blum
Plinko
1st – Todd Ehlers
Sarah Ehlers
2nd – Tom Liston
Sally Liston
Cake Walk
1st – M/M Paul Lees
Erika Lees
2nd – M/M Chad Hansen
Lauren Sievers
Bolo Golf
1st - M/M Israel Rivera
Ashli Walker
2nd – M/M Dustin Jensen
Emily Mitchell
Frisbee Golf
1st – Lenny Becerra
Alyssa Becerra
2nd – Cindy Redler
Mariah Stillian
Pop Toss
1st – Dave Anzalone
Derek Frahm
Eli Holtz
2nd – Bob Kixmiller
Breanna Kixmiller
Michael Mertz
Dart Board
1st – M/M Bryan Simonsen
Codi Hays
2nd – M/M Robb Akers
Josie Anzalone
Duck Pond
1st – Jan Loverin
Amy Loverin
2nd – Deb Brockmann
Dakota Brockmann
Basketball
1st – M/M Darren Tooley
Lucas Blum
Amadeus Linzer
2nd – Allan Sievers
Chris Guthery
Jared Ploen
Fish Pond
1st – Paula Griffith
Jay Heiny
Courtlyn Griffith
2nd – Diana Sievers
McKenna Martin
Bumper Skate
1st – M/M Larry Helms
Jessica Helms
2nd – Alan Redler
Whitney Redler
Lollipop Tree
1st – M/M Mike Stillian
2nd – M/M Trevor Montgomery
Marissa Pikula
Putt-Putt Golf
1st – M/M Jordan Krummel
Morgan Simonsen
2nd – M/M Pete Thomas
Dannon Thomas
Find the Monkey
1st – Shawn Ballinger
Sierra Heiny
2nd – M/M Brian Champion
Bean Bag Toss
1st – Julie Kixmiller
Ben Kixmiller
2nd – Rich Hester
Sarah Hester
Bingo
1st – M/M Jack Ploen
Kaitlyn Tooley
2nd – M/M Jon Mitchell
Jessica Champion
Cut the Deck
1st – Jessie Anzalone
Andrew Finnell
2nd – Andrea Kearney
Briar Brockmann
Stuff the Clown
1st – Rachel Hamilton
Erin Akers
2nd – M/M Jason Bradley
Tic Tac Toe
1st – Ron Hamilton
Hannah Hester
2nd – Amber Bradley
Marin Karns
Jr. Concession Stand
M/M Rick Blum & non-music juniors/parents
Clean-up Committee
M/M Greg Mertz
M/M Bob Kixmiller
M/M Ron Hamilton
M/M Jon Mitchell
M/M Rick Blum

Following is a list of parents you may call if you are unable to work your shift:
Kevin & Tammy Simmons
Jason & April Martin

Music Carnival March 4th

2011-02-18T19:27:00.000-08:00

Music Carnival is March 4th. The Show Choir will perform at 6:30 followed by coronation. Games will begin at approximately 7:00pm and end at 9:00pm. Schedules will be mailed out to all 5-12 band/vocal students’ parents this weekend telling them when and where they are scheduled to work. Early ticket sales will be March 1st-3rd outside of the 5th grade room from 3:00-4:00 at the cost of 5/$1. Tickets at the door will be 4/$1. 5-12 band/vocal students, don’t forget to bake a cake/pie/baked goods (or several) for the cake walk!

New to the Music Carnival this year: SCHWAN’S TRUCKLOAD SALE!! March 4th from 4:00pm-9:00pm. Pre-orders are welcome and encouraged! Go to www.schwansfundraising.com and enter Campaign ID #33096, and pick up your food at the sale. Or, if you don't have internet access and wish to pre-order, call Cyndi Jensen at 784-3768. If you already have Schwan’s delivered to your house and “don’t need” more Schwan’s food from a fund-raiser, please consider buying yourself a gift card to use for your future home deliveries. That way, you still order as usual at home, but a portion of the gift card sale is donated to the music department! A win-win!!

POPS CONCERT DATE CHANGED

2011-02-08T08:30:00.000-08:00

The 6-12 Pops Concert date has been moved to Friday, Feb. 18th at 7:00pm in the old gym due to a conflict with district basketball games. Dessert recipes have been distributed to all 9-12 music students, one per family. Please have the desserts to the gym by 6:15 so they can be cut and prepared for serving. Remember to please label your pans. Middle School Band and Chorus, High School Band and Chorus, and the High School Show Choir will perform on this concert. Admission is $3/adults and $2/students.

SWICDA HS Honor Choir

2011-02-08T08:27:00.000-08:00

Great job to our 6 students who attended the SW Iowa Choral Directors Association High School Honor Choir at Iowa Western Community College on Feb. 7th! Megan Ehlers, Codi Hays, Hannah Hester, Eli Holtz, Samantha Jensen, and Erika Lees participated in this all day event under the direction of Shelby VanNordstrand. The concert was wonderful and they represented the WHS Vocal Department very well! ~Mrs. Kock

December Music Parents Meeting

2010-11-23T09:23:00.000-08:00

The Music Parents will meet in the band room on Saturday, December 11th at 8:00am. If you are a parent of a 5-12 band student or a 6-12 vocal student, you are a music parent, and you are welcome and encouraged to attend!

Poinsettias

2010-11-23T09:20:00.001-08:00

The first round of poinsettias will be delivered tomorrow afternoon for those who chose the early delivery date for their order.
The second delivery date is Thursday, December 2nd.
Any parents available and willing to assist in the deliveries, please contact Mrs. Kock.
Extras will also be for sale at both winter concerts, December 2nd and 9th, for $10 each.

Winter Concerts Approaching

2010-11-23T09:02:00.000-08:00

The PreK-5th Grade winter concert is Thursday, December 2nd at 7:00pm. Students are asked to report to their teachers in the gym at 6:40 (with the exceptions of PreK to their classroom, and 5th Grade Band reporting at 6:30) and wear their best dress clothes.
The 6-12 winter concert is Thursday, December 9th at 7:00pm. Vocal students will wear robes, and band students will wear their concert band attire. Band members please report at 6:30, choir members at 6:40.

Music Parents Meeting

2010-10-21T08:47:00.001-07:00

There will be a Music Parents meeting at 8:00am in the band room on Saturday, Oct. 23rd. Hope to see you there!

Poinsettia Sales

2010-10-14T09:43:00.001-07:00

The Walnut Music Parents have begun their annual poinsettia sales. Area churches and Peace Haven have order forms for their members and residents. A representative will be visiting local businesses for orders to decorate your place of business in time for the Christmas Antique Walk. Or, if you would like to place an order, please contact Teri Harmon at the school: 784-3615. The cost is $10. The deadline for ordering is November 5th. Plants will be delivered either the Wed. before Thanksgiving (Nov. 24th) or on Thursday, December 2nd, your choice. Please indicate your chosen delivery date when placing your order. Color choices are: red, white, pink, or marble.

State Marching Band

2010-10-07T13:33:00.001-07:00

State Marching Band Contest is in Glenwood at 9:00am on Saturday, Oct. 16. The bus will leave at 7:00am. Remember all pieces of your uniform, and be on time, please!

Food Delivery Date

2010-10-07T05:30:00.000-07:00

The frozen food that was sold through our fund-raiser will be delivered on Wednesday, Oct. 27 at 1:15. Please note this later date than originally planned. Please also make arrangements to have parental assistance after school that day if you sold a large quantity of items.

2010-2011 Band Calendar

2010-09-30T12:05:00.000-07:00

Oct. 2 Clarinda Marching Invitational
Oct. 16 State Marching Band Festival
Nov. 11 Veteran's Day Program
Nov. 18-20 All State Music Festival
Dec. 2 Elementary Winter Concert
Dec. 9 JH/HS Winter Concert
Feb. 17 JH/HS Pops Concert
Feb. 22 ICDA Middle School Solo/Ensemble Clinic @ Griswold
March 4 Music Carnival
March 8 RHC Honor Band
March 12 Bellevue East Jazz Festival
April 5 Elementary Spring Concert
April 9 State Small Group Contest
May 3 JH/HS Spring Concert
May 6 State Large Group Contest
May 7 5-8 Band Solo/Ensemble Conteest @ Walnut
May 11 Baccalaureate
May 15 Graduation

Band Grading Policy

2010-09-28T09:21:00.001-07:00

Grades are determined by a grade point system.

9-12 High School Band

Attendance 4 points possible per session 33 percent of grade
Participation 4. points possible per session 33 percent of grade
Performance 4.0 grade point possible per performance 33 percent of grade
Attendance

Students are required to attend every rehearsal and sectional that has been scheduled. Students are graded on earned points per rehearsal. Grades are calculated weekly. Total points earned per week are divided into the number of rehearsals/sectionals per week to determine the weekly grade point average.

Grade Point Scale (weekly, quarterly and semester)

3.6 - 4.0 = A, 3.1 – 3.5 = B, 2.6 – 3.0 = C, 2.1 – 2.5 = D, 2.0 below = F

Student attendance will be documented for each rehearsal/sectional. Excused absences and tardiness are valid only if the student provides a written note signed by the parent, guardian, teacher or administrator and will not be weighted against the student grade. Unexcused absences will result in zero points for the rehearsal/sectional. Unexcused tardiness will result in a one point deduction at the start of the rehearsal and a one point deduction for every 10 minutes of missed rehearsal/sectional.

Participation

Students are required to participate in at all times during rehearsal and sectional time. Student class participation evaluation will be at the discretion of the director. Students are graded on earned points per rehearsal. The student grade in the participation category will be calculated weekly. Total points earned per week are divided into the number of rehearsals/sectionals per week to determine the weekly grade point average.

Grade Point Scale (weekly, quarterly and semester)

3.6 - 4.0 = A, 3.1 – 3.5 = B, 2.6 – 3.0 = C, 2.1 – 2.5 = D, 2.0 below = F

Student participation points will be documented for each rehearsal/sectional. Class participation is defined as active instructional engagement that promote student learning and comprehension. Excused absences and tardiness are valid only if the student provides a written note signed by the parent, guardian, teacher or administrator and will not be weighted against the student grade. Unexcused absences will result in zero points for the rehearsal/sectional. Non engagement or irresponsible behavior will result in ‘zero points for the rehearsal/sectional.

Performance

Students are evaluated and graded on performance output during a grading period. Student performance evaluation will be at the discretion of the director. Students are graded on a grade point scale per performance. Grade points earned per performance are divided into the number of performances per grading period to determine the weekly/quarterly point average.

Grade Point Scale (weekly, quarterly and semester)

3.6 - 4.0 = A, 3.1 – 3.5 = B, 2.6 – 3.0 = C, 2.1 – 2.5 = D, 2.0 below = F

Performance output is define as performance on playing tests, concerts, recitals, and contests. Personal preparation along with contributions to the ensemble and section will factor significantly in a good performance grade.
Excused performances are valid if a signed written note is provided by the parent prior to the missed performance. The student will be required to do a make up assignment for the missed performance.

I have read and understand the grading policy and agree to follow the guidelines set forth in it.

Student Signature___________________________________________
Parent Signature_____________________________________________Date____________________

Food Fund-Raiser Begins

2010-09-09T10:00:00.001-07:00

The annual Music Department food fund-raiser began today, Thursday, Sept. 9th. All 5-12 band and 6-12 vocal students are asked to sell "their fair share" toward our goal, 15 items each. Funds will be used toward the purchase of any/all of the following things: a new digital keyboard; acoustic sound shells to enhance the quality of sound in the gym for concerts; and a possible trip to perform at Adventureland in the spring. Please contact any band or vocal student to show your support of the WCS Music Department by purchasing one or more frozen food items. Or, please contact Teri Harmon at the school, 712-784-3615. Thank you for your support! (Sales will end Sept. 23rd, with planned delivery of the food items on Oct. 7th.)

Vocal Music Calendar

2010-08-12T21:35:00.000-07:00

HS Vocal Music Calendar 10/11

2nd & 3rd Quarters: 7:00am T/Th Show Choir practice
Wed. Sept. 8: begin food fund-raiser
Tues. Nov. 9: Rolling Hills Conference Choir
Festival @ AC, day time rehearsal, 7:00pm concert
Thurs. Nov. 11: Veterans’ Day Assembly, 10:30am
Thurs. Dec. 2: Elementary Winter Concert, 7:00pm
Thurs. Dec. 9: MS/HS Winter Concert, 7:00pm
Mon. Jan. 31: State Show Choir Contest
Mon. Feb. 7: SWICDA HS Honor Choir @ IWCC
(select few to participate)
Thurs. Feb. 17: Pops Concert, 7:00pm
*Sat. Feb. 19?: Indianola Show Choir Contest – watch for date on website, but this is the corresponding date from the last 2 years.
Fri. March 4: Music Carnival
*Sat. March 5 or 12?: Bellevue East Jazz Fest
(Show Choir & Jazz Band only) – watch for date on website
Tues. March 15: ICDA 5th – 8th Grade Honor Choir
@ Atlantic, day time rehearsal, 7:00pm concert
Tues. April 5: Elementary Spring Concert, 7:00pm
Sat. April 9: State Small Group Contest
Tues. May 3: MS/HS Spring Concert, 7:00pm
Fri. May 6: State Large Group Contest
Wed. May 11: Baccalaureate (not 100% certainty that we will perform, but this is the date for this event)
Thurs. May 12: Academic Awards Night (letters will be
distributed here)
Sun. May 15: Graduation 2:00pm
To stay informed of vocal events, check the activities calendar on the website. Also, you may visit the band/vocal blog on the school website to hear directly from the department about various music info.
Visit: http://www.wcsmusicdept.blogspot.com/ or http://walnutcs.walnut.iowapages.org/

Welcome Back to School!

2010-08-12T21:32:00.000-07:00

The following is Mrs. Kock's grading policy for High School Choir. This sheet will be given out on the first day of class, and needs to be signed and returned by Tues. Aug. 24th.

HS CHOIR EXPECTATIONS

GRADING POLICY
The school’s standard grading scale will be used to determine your letter grade. (90/80/70/60)
Grades will be figured as follows:
Quarter Semester
Participation in class = 75% Quarter Grades = 50% each
Concert Attendance = 25%
(or make-up work)
Due to our limited class time of only 2 days per week, and the complications of my Tuesday/Thursday schedule vs. your time in Atlantic classes, voice lessons will not be required as part of your quarterly grade except as make-up work for missing a concert. We will need to work something out for lesson time for those involved in small group contest when that season gets closer.

ANY ABSENCES FROM CONCERTS MUST BE MADE UP!
Concerts are like tests. If you missed a math test, you would have to make it up. I cannot recreate a concert setting for you to make up lost points. Therefore, the following policy was generated so as not to punish those who encounter emergency situations:
Excused absences (such as illness) will result in the requirement of 2 voice lessons. These lessons must be completed by the end of the quarter in which the concert occurred.
Unexcused absences will result in the requirement of a 750-word report on a classical composer (in your own words, bibliography included). This written work must be completed within 2 calendar weeks of the concert date, or you will not receive any make-up points for missing the concert.

Weekly academic eligibility lists will not apply in graded music situations. Concerts are graded, so regardless of your academic eligibility, you will be expected to participate. (If you failed math, we wouldn’t restrict you from taking your science test.) The only two exceptions to this policy are small group contest and the state’s Academic Scholarship Rule. Small group contest is voluntary and extra credit. Therefore, you must be academically eligible to participate. The Scholarship Rule applies to those failing any course at semester. Those students must sit out of all activities, including music, x number of days, according to the state. See Mr. Binns if you’d like more details on the state policy.
EXTRA CREDIT
Any extra credit will be added to the Participation portion of your grade, not to Concert Attendance.
Extra credit is given for the following:
2 points for each voice lesson taken, whether with Mrs. Kock or another vocal instructor (Mr. Kearney, for example, or a private teacher)
1 point per performance if member of a church choir, or if you perform as special music in a service (bring in a bulletin from the service)
5 points if you perform in a cantata or community choir
2 points for attendance, 5 points for helping, at elementary concert
1 point per outside concert attended (for example, a Tim McGraw concert or another school’s musical) with one paragraph summary telling me when, where, who, and what you thought of it.

HS CHOIR LETTERS & AWARDS
All members of choir will letter at the end of the year unless:
A. you have an excused absence from a concert and do not complete the make-up work; (Making up an excused absence will not affect letters or awards. In other words, do the make-up work for an excused concert absence and you’ll be fine.)
or B. you have an unexcused concert absence, regardless of completion of the make-up work.
Top-of-the-class (9th, 10th, etc.) choir awards will be given based on a point system Mrs. Kock has established. The point system rewards participation – the more active you are in choir activities, the more points you earn. If you would like more detailed information about the system, see Mrs. Kock.

A High School Choir Calendar is attached to this form. Please include all required dates on your home, work, and personal calendars. Let employers know these dates now so that you’re sure not to be scheduled to work these days. “I didn’t know about the concert” will not be an accepted excuse for missing it, given this advance notice.

**Please sign and return this portion to Mrs. Kock by Tues. Aug. 24**
Your signature below does not signify your agreement with any of the above policies. Your signature below simply signifies that you have read the above policies and are aware that they exist.
Thank you!! Mrs. Kock

__________________________ _____________________________
Parent/guardian & Student

Reminders through April

2010-03-10T10:40:00.000-08:00

Saturday, March 13: Show Choir contest at Bellevue East High School, perform 11:40, leave 8:00am
Tuesday, March 16: RHC Honor Band at EHK, concert 7:00pm
Tuesday, March 23: SWICDA 5-8 Honor Choir at Treynor, leave 11:30, concert 7:00pm
Friday, March 26: 2nd and 3rd grades sing National Anthem at Dale Lynch Memorial volleyball game, meet in vocal room 6:15, sing at 6:30
Saturday, April 17: State Small Group for High School at Woodbine
Monday, April 19: Elementary Spring Concert, 7:00pm
Saturday, April 24: Music Parents Meeting in the band room 9:00am

Music Carnival Letter to Parents

2010-02-21T23:57:00.000-08:00

Dear Music Parents,
It is that time of the school year again! This year’s Music Carnival will be held on Friday, March 5th at 6:30p.m. starting in the OLD gym. As a reminder, a Music Parent is any parent having a child in 5th-12th grade band or 6th-12th grade chorus.
The Music Carnival is the Music Parents Organization’s biggest fundraising project. All of the money we raise goes to the Walnut Music Department. Our big purchase this year has been show choir outfits. We also bought a new bass amplifier, cleaned the band uniforms and old show choir outfits, and took the music students to see “Jesus Christ Superstar” earlier this month.
The program portion of the evening begins at 6:30 when the High School Show Choir performs. The 2010 Royalty have been selected by the music students, and the king and queen will be crowned during the program. The Carnival portion of the evening will immediately follow in the NEW gym.
There are three shifts for the Carnival. The first two shifts will be working the game booths. The third shift will be the clean-up committee. However, for those of you listed to work the game booths second shift, please take a few minutes to tidy your area and take down the tables in order to make the packing up and putting away go more smoothly for the clean-up committee. The first shift will begin directly after the program and end at 8:15. The second shift will start at 8:15 and ends at 9:00p.m. The clean-up shift will begin directly at 9:00 when the Carnival is over.
Music students will be selling chances for two $50 gift certificates to the Mall of the Bluffs or Oakview Mall. Chances will be $1 and may be purchased from any music student or at the door on the night of the Carnival. Students selling the winning tickets will receive a $5 bonus. The drawing will be between 8:30 and 9:00 (you need not be present to win.) The top three ticket sellers will receive McDonald’s gift certificates.
Advance game ticket sales will be available Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday (March 2nd-5th) starting at 3:00p.m. outside the 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade rooms. The price of advance tickets will be five for $1. Tickets purchased at the door will be four for $1.
Thursday evening at 6:00p.m. we will be setting up the games in the new gym. The more people that can come and help, the sooner we can get done – we would love to have your help!
Each family is asked to bring a cake, pie, or other baked goods for the Cakewalk. (We encourage you to bring more than one!) These baked goods should be taken to the band room. It is very important that each family contributes a cake, pie, or baked goods, because they are total profit for the music department.
IF YOU ARE UNABLE TO FULFILL YOUR DUTIES AS LISTED IN THIS LETTER, YOU MUST FIND YOUR OWN REPLACEMENTS. Please contact one of the following parents to let them know the name of your replacement. Thank you for your support, and we hope you enjoy the program and the Carnival!
Paula Griffith – 784-3539 Claudia Frahm – 784-2260
Ticket Sellers
1st – M/M Robert Kixmiller (Ticket sales only – 1st shift starts at 6 p.m.)
2nd - M/M Alan Redler (Ticket sales only – 2nd shift starts at 7:30p.m.)

First shift for the game booth begins right after the program and finishes at 8:15.
Second shift for the game booths begins at 8:15 and lasts until the end of the Carnival at 9:00.

Redemption Table
1st – M/M Rick Blum
M/M Steve Brockmann
2nd – M/M Sam Metheny
Ron Hamilton
Deb Brockmann
Face Painting
1st – Kandy Dea
Marye Bierbaum
Valerie Sievers
Dakota Brockmann
2nd – Ellen Holtz
Jessica Helms
Lauren Sievers
Milk Can Toss
1st – M/M Russell Finnell
Andrew Finnell
Ben Kixmiller
2nd – Richard Hester
Akari Fujita
Sarah Hester
Cake Walk
1st – M/M Kent Johnk
2nd – M/M Dave Anzalone
Bolo Golf
1st - M/M Lenny Becerra
Alyssa Becerra
2nd – M/M Randy Petersen
Josie Anzalone
Frisbee Golf
1st – M/M Israel Rivera
Ashli Walker
2nd – Chrissy Stillian
Mariah Stillian
Pop Toss
1st – M/M Greg Mertz
Codi Hays
Micah Metheny
2nd – M/M Rob Sampson
Eli Holtz
Lucas Blum
Dart Board
1st – M/M Robb Akers
Shelby Koenig
Amy Loverin
2nd – M/M Jon Mitchell
Emily Mitchell
Michael Mertz
Duck Pond
1st – Jan Loverin
Nicole Messer
2nd – Tom Liston
Sally Liston
Basketball
1st – M/M Jon Peterson
Dillan Hamilton
Ty Johnk
2nd – M/M David Franks
Chris Guthery
Jared Ploen
Fish Pond
1st – M/M Bruce Bierbaum
Marin Karns
Courtlyn Griffith
2nd – Shawn Ballinger
Sierra Heiny
Bumper Skate
1st – M/M Pete Thomas
Dannon Thomas
2nd – Cheryl Lebeck
Justine Jones
Makala Osborn
Lollipop Tree
1st – M/M Darren Tooley
Breanna Kixmiller
2nd – Andrea Kearney
Madison Hamilton
Putt-Putt Golf
1st – Vickie Weihs
Josie Cable
2nd – M/M Mark Jensen
Josh Jensen
Find the Monkey
1st – John Sampson
Brianna Sampson
2nd – M/M Kevin Simmons
Kassy Simmons
Bean Bag Toss
1st – M/M Jason Martin
McKenna Martin
2nd – M/M Jack Ploen
Whitney Redler
Bingo
1st – M/M Bryan Simonsen
Morgan Simonsen
2nd – M/M Paul Lees
Erika Lees
Cut the Deck
1st – Nineen Freeman
Rikki Freeman
2nd – M/M Jordan Krummel
Jr Concession Stand
1st – M/M Dustin Jensen
Samantha Jensen
Derek Frahm
2nd – M/M Todd Ehlers
Megan Ehlers
Hannah Hester
Clean-up Committee
M/M Courtney Griffith
Allan & Diana Sievers
Karla & Larry Helms
M/M Rick Heiny
M/M Trace Frahm
Following is a list of parents you may call if you are unable to work your shift:
Jason & Kelli Hamlin, Tracy & Annette Elder, Wayne & Barb Rush
Christine Barr, Laymond & Linda Williams, Kristy Walker
Kimberly Koenig, Maria Peck, Stephanie Brandt
Erin Gastmann, Amber Bradley, George & Suzanne Reid

Show Choir Contest

2010-02-06T13:36:00.001-08:00

The WHS Show Choir will attend a contest in Indianola on Saturday, February 20th. The bus leaves at 8:30am. Our performance time is 1:25pm.

Pops Concert Feb. 18

2010-02-06T13:33:00.000-08:00

The 6-12 Pops Concert is Thursday, February 18th at 7:00pm in the old gym. Desserts and refreshments will be served. Admission is $3 for adults and $2 for students. All high school band and vocal students were given recipes for desserts earlier this week, which need to be delivered to the gym by 6:15 prior to the concert.

Music Parents Sponsor Trip to Musical

2010-01-26T09:54:00.001-08:00

Earlier this month, sign-up forms went around to all 6-12 band and vocal students for a trip to a Broadway show in Omaha on Feb. 7th. 30 people are signed up to attend "Jesus Christ Superstar." The bus will leave at 12:15pm, the show is at 2:00, and we will stop for supper on the way home, arriving in Walnut by 7:00pm. Please dress nicely for this event, as it is at the Orpheum Theater. Thanks to the Music Parents Organization for providing this great opportunity!

Music Parents Meeting

2010-01-26T09:53:00.000-08:00

The next Music Parents Meeting is Sat. Feb. 6th at 9am in the band room. Come one, come all!

State Show Choir

2010-01-26T09:52:00.001-08:00

State Show Choir contest is Monday, Feb. 1st in Atlantic. Walnut performs at 6:40pm. The bus will leave at 5:00pm.

Conference Vocal Festival

2009-11-03T09:57:00.000-08:00

Below you will see a copy of the information and assignment sheet that the HS Chorus members received regarding the Rolling Hills Conference Vocal Festival on Tuesday, Nov. 10th. Please note the $11 cost of food, required attire, and deadline of signatures on the form.

Conference Vocal Festival
Tuesday, November 10, 2009

The Conference Vocal Festival is at Paton-Churdan High School. The concert is there at 7:00pm. It is open to the public for a small admission fee. You all need to board the bus at 8:00am from the front of the school. Please remember that chorus is a graded, co-curricular class. Each performance is figured in as part of your grade. You need to take care of the following:

1. Get the attached assignment sheet signed by all of your instructors and parents, and return it to Mrs. Kock by the end of the day on Thursday, November 5th.
2. Let Mrs. Kock know whether or not you will be eating food provided by PC. Snacks, drinks, lunch, and supper are all provided for a flat $11 fee. Please pay Mrs. Kock by Thursday, November 5th. If you do not pay, I will assume that you are bringing your own snacks, lunch, and supper.
3. Bring nice clothes to change into for the concert. ABSOLUTELY NO JEANS!!! Remember, you are representing both Walnut Community School and the Walnut Music Department - we expect you to be outstanding representatives of our organizations. Sing out, show enthusiasm, be respectful, and have a great time.
4. Don’t forget to take your festival music!!

Thank-you! Mrs. Kock

Name:
Due to Mrs. Kock by 3:30, Thursday, November 5th.

Class Period Class Assignment Signature

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

Parent/Guardian’s Signature:

Food Pick-Up, MP Meeting, & Show Choir

2009-10-21T07:57:00.000-07:00

Students who sold frozen food in our recent music department fund raiser can pick it up in the band room today after school.
There will be a Music Parents meeting Saturday morning at 9:00 in the band room.
Show Choir rehearsals began Tuesday morning at 7:00. They will be every T/Th at 7am during 2nd and 3rd quarters.

Poinsettia Sales

2009-10-08T08:06:00.000-07:00

The Walnut Music Parents are selling poinsettias again this year for $10. Color choices are red, pink, white, or marble, and you can choose a Wed. November 25th delivery date (the day before Thanksgiving) or Thurs. December 3rd (available for pick-up at the elementary winter concert.) There are order forms at the local churches, and someone will be visiting the local businesses to take orders for decorating for the Christmas Antique Walk. If you are interested in ordering a poinsettia from the Music Parents, but don’t have access to the ordering process as described above, please contact Teri Harmon at the school at 784-3615. Please make your checks payable to the Music Parents. The deadline for ordering is Sun. November 8th.

Music Department Fund Raiser

2009-09-13T19:22:00.000-07:00

The 5-12 band and 6-12 vocal music students are selling frozen food items to raise money for the Walnut Music Department. Funds will be used for marching band equipment, show choir outfits, a trip to see a musical production this year, and other various needs of the department. Please show your support of your WHS music students by purchasing some pizza, cinnamon rolls, cheesecake, cookie dough, or other delicious items. Sales are running now through Sept. 22nd. If you are not contacted by a Walnut music student and would like to show your support of this fund raiser, please contact Bill Kearney or Sarah Kock at school: 784-3615.

Music Parents Meeting

2009-09-09T20:17:00.001-07:00

The Music Parents will be meeting Saturday morning, Sept. 12, at 9:00am in the band room. Come one, come all!

Conference Choir Date Changed

2009-08-27T14:19:00.000-07:00

Please note the date change in the Vocal Calendar for Rolling Hills Conference Vocal Festival. It is NOT Nov. 3. It is Tues. Nov. 10. Please make this change on your calendar at home and work. If a high school student is employed, please make sure they let their employer know of this new date. I apologize for the error. ~Mrs. Kock

Vocal Music Calendar 2009-2010

2009-08-17T14:53:00.000-07:00

2nd & 3rd Quarters: 7:00am T/Th Show Choir practice
Tues. Nov. 10: Rolling Hills Conference Choir
Festival @ PC, day time rehearsal, 7:00pm concert
Wed. Nov. 11: Veterans’ Day Assembly, during school
Thurs. Dec. 3: Elementary Winter Concert, 7:00pm
Thurs. Dec. 10: MS/HS Winter Concert, 7:00pm
Mon. Feb. 1: State Show Choir Contest @ Atlantic
Mon. Feb. 8: SWICDA HS Honor Choir @ IWCC
(select few to participate)
Thurs. Feb. 18: Pops Concert, 7:00pm
Sat. Feb. 20: Indianola Show Choir Contest
Fri. March 5: Music Carnival
*Sat. March 6 or 13?: Bellevue East Jazz Fest
(Show Choir & Jazz Band only) – watch for date on website
Tues. March 23: ICDA 5th – 8th Grade Honor Choir
@ Treynor, day time rehearsal, 7:00pm concert
Thurs. April 1: Elementary Spring Concert, 7:00pm
Sat. April 17: State Small Group Contest
Tues. May 4: MS/HS Spring Concert, 7:00pm
Fri. May 7: State Large Group Contest
Wed. May 12: Baccalaureate (not 100% certainty that we will perform, but this is the date for this event)
Thurs. May 13: Academic Awards Night (letters will be
distributed here)
Sun. May 16: Graduation 2:00pm

To stay informed of vocal events, check the activities calendar on the website. Also, you may visit the band/vocal blog on the school website to hear directly from the department about various music info.
Visit: http://www.walnut.k12.ia.us/

HS Choir Expectations

2009-08-17T14:50:00.000-07:00

The following information will be sent home with all high school choir students on the first day of school. It is to be signed by the student and parent, and returned to Mrs. Kock by Tues. Aug. 25:
HS CHOIR EXPECTATIONS

GRADING POLICY
The school’s standard grading scale will be used to determine your letter grade. (90/80/70/60)
Grades will be figured as follows:
Quarter Semester
Participation in class = 75% Quarter Grades = 50% each
Concert Attendance = 25%
(or make-up work)
Due to our limited class time of only 2 days per week, and the complications of my Tuesday/Thursday schedule vs. your time in Atlantic classes, voice lessons will not be required as part of your quarterly grade except as make-up work for missing a concert. We will need to work something out for lesson time for those involved in small group contest when that season gets closer.

ANY ABSENCES FROM CONCERTS MUST BE MADE UP!
Concerts are like tests. If you missed a math test, you would have to make it up. I cannot recreate a concert setting for you to make up lost points. Therefore, the following policy was generated so as not to punish those who encounter emergency situations:
Excused absences (such as illness) will result in the requirement of 2 voice lessons. These lessons must be completed by the end of the quarter in which the concert occurred.
Unexcused absences will result in the requirement of a 750-word report on a classical composer (in your own words, bibliography included). This written work must be completed within 2 calendar weeks of the concert date, or you will not receive any make-up points for missing the concert.

Weekly academic eligibility lists will not apply in graded music situations. Concerts are graded, so regardless of your academic eligibility, you will be expected to participate. (If you failed math, we wouldn’t restrict you from taking your science test.) The only two exceptions to this policy are small group contest and the state’s Academic Scholarship Rule. Small group contest is voluntary and extra credit. Therefore, you must be academically eligible to participate. The Scholarship Rule applies to those failing any course at semester. Those students must sit out of all activities, including music, x number of days, according to the state. See Mr. Binns if you’d like more details on the state policy.
EXTRA CREDIT
Any extra credit will be added to the Participation portion of your grade, not to Concert Attendance.
Extra credit is given for the following:
2 points for each voice lesson taken, whether with Mrs. Kock or another vocal instructor (Mr. Kearney, for example, or a private teacher)
1 point per performance if member of a church choir, or if you perform as special music in a service (bring in a bulletin from the service)
5 points if you perform in a cantata or community choir
2 points for attendance, 5 points for helping, at elementary concert
1 point per outside concert attended (for example, a Tim McGraw concert or another school’s musical) with one paragraph summary telling me when, where, who, and what you thought of it.

HS CHOIR LETTERS & AWARDS
All members of choir will letter at the end of the year unless:
A. you have an excused absence from a concert and do not complete the make-up work; (Making up an excused absence will not affect letters or awards. In other words, do the make-up work for an excused concert absence and you’ll be fine.)
or B. you have an unexcused concert absence, regardless of completion of the make-up work.
Top-of-the-class (9th, 10th, etc.) choir awards will be given based on a point system Mrs. Kock has established. The point system rewards participation – the more active you are in choir activities, the more points you earn. If you would like more detailed information about the system, see Mrs. Kock.

A High School Choir Calendar is attached to this form. Please include all required dates on your home, work, and personal calendars. Let employers know these dates now so that you’re sure not to be scheduled to work these days. “I didn’t know about the concert” will not be an accepted excuse for missing it, given this advance notice.

**Please sign and return this portion to Mrs. Kock by Tues. Aug. 25**
Your signature below does not signify your agreement with any of the above policies. Your signature below simply signifies that you have read the above policies and are aware that they exist.
Thank you!! Mrs. Kock

__________________________ _____________________________
Parent/guardian Student

2010 Branson Trip Cancelled

2009-06-19T19:48:00.000-07:00

It is with sincere regret that we inform you that the music trip to Branson in March of 2010 has been cancelled. Due to conflicts and a lack of interest, we were unable to secure a roster suitable to represent the music department and school. We understand that the commitment and preparation for this trip was a huge undertaking and we apologize to the parents who had planned for this trip and invested money for their child towards the cost of the trip. We are also very appreciative of the parents who were willing to support and allow their child this very special opportunity. Though the effort to put together this trip was unsuccessful, we are hopeful that we can provide the vocal and instrumental students a similar opportunity sometime in the future.
NOTE: If you submitted a check for registration, it was voided and enclosed in a June 18th mailing of this cancellation notice. Thank you.

Music Parents Meeting Changed

2009-04-30T10:22:00.001-07:00

The date of the May Music Parents meetnig has been moved to Sunday, May 3 at 4:00pm in the band room.

Up-Coming Music Events

2009-04-27T12:45:00.000-07:00

Saturday, May 2, 9:00am: Music Parents Meeting, band room
Tuesday, May 5, 7:00pm: 6-12 band/vocal concert, senior recognition, and awards night, new gym
Friday, May 8: High School band/vocal state large group contest, at EHK. Click this link to see the large group schedule - http://www.elk-horn.k12.ia.us/FineArts/IHSMALargegroup.html
Thursday, May 14: Academic Awards Night, music letters will be given at this time.
Wednesday, May 20, 7:00pm: Baccalaureate, HS choir will sing
Wednesday, May 20: Early registration deadline for Branson trip, Music Parents will contribute $25 of your fee if you register by this date.
Sunday, May 24, 2:00pm: Graduation, HS band and choir will both perform, new gym

Elementary/MS Honor Choir

2009-03-05T13:21:00.000-08:00

On March 24, 2009 several 5th – 8th grade Walnut vocal students will participate in the SW Iowa Choral Directors Association Elementary/Middle School Honor Choir. Students attending this event are Jay Heiny, Kaitlyn Tooley, Sierra Heiny, Madison Hamilton, Haley Blum, and Breanna Kixmiller. The concert starts at 7:00 p.m. in the Shenandoah H.S. Gymnasium. Admission will be $3.00 adults, $2.00 students. The concert will feature the 5th and 6th grade choir under the direction of Nancy Ewing and the 7th and 8th grade choir under the direction of Randy Ewing.

Show Choir & Jazz Band Contest

2009-03-05T13:00:00.000-08:00

The show choir and jazz band will both be competing at the Bellevue East Jazz & Show Choir Festival in Bellevue, NE on Saturday, March 14. The show choir performs at 11:20, and the jazz band performs at 12:20. The bus will leave Walnut at 8:45am.

Music Carnival is March 6

2009-02-25T13:30:00.000-08:00

The Walnut Comm. School Music Carnival is next Friday, March 6th. The jazz band and show choir will perform at 6:30 in the old gym, with coronation to follow. The games will begin in the new gym as soon as the coronation is over (approximately 7:00pm.) Advance ticket sales will be from 3:15 - 4:00 Tuesday, March 3rd – Thursday, March 5th on the 2nd - 5th grade floor at school. Advance prices are 5/$1, and tickets at the door will be 4/$1. 5-12 band and 6-12 chorus students are selling raffle tickets for $50 gift certificates to the Mall of the Bluffs. Please join us for a fun-filled evening and show your support of the Walnut Music Department!

Show Choir Gets 1st Place

2009-02-25T13:26:00.000-08:00

The high school show choir brought home the 1st place trophy for class 1A from the show choir contest in Indianola on Sat. Feb. 21. Congratulations, show choir! They will compete again in Bellevue, NE on Sat. March 14.

Upcoming Music Events

2009-01-21T18:45:00.000-08:00

Show Choir Rehearsal: Monday, Jan. 26 7:00pm-8:30pm (in addition to regular T/Th 7am)
State Show Choir Contest: Feb. 2 in Denison, 5:55pm performance, leave school at 4:00.
Music Parents Meeting: Feb. 7, 8:00am in the band room
SWICDA High School Honor Choir: Feb. 9 at IWCC, 7:00pm concert (select few attend)
6-12 Pops Concert & Mandatory Parents' Meeting for Branson Trip: Feb. 12, 7:00pm
Show Choir Contest: Feb. 21 in Indianola
MS Solo/Ensemble & Large Group Clinic: Feb. 24 in Griswold
Music Carnival: March 6, 6:30pm concert and coronation
Jazz Band & Show Choir Contest: March 14 in Bellevue
Elementary & MS Honor Choir: March 24 in Shenandoah

Music Parents Meeting

2009-01-12T05:40:00.000-08:00

The January Music Parents meeting will be Saturday, Jan. 17 at 8:00am in the band room. All 5-12 band and 6-12 vocal students' parents are encouraged to attend to help plan the pops concert and carnival. There will also be further discussion of the planned music trip for next year.

Concert Cancelled

2009-01-12T05:39:00.000-08:00

The 6-12 winter concert has been cancelled and will not be made up. Please plan on attending our pops concert in February to support the 6-12 music students.

6-12 Concert Postponed

2008-12-18T09:16:00.000-08:00

The 6-12 Winter Concert has been postponed until Monday, January 5th at 7:00pm in the new gym.

Elementary to visit Peace Haven

2008-12-09T15:27:00.000-08:00

The K-2 classes will visit Peace Haven on Tuesday, December 16, at 1:00pm to sing their concert songs for the residents. They will then tour the Christmas decorations throughout the halls before returning to school. Grades 3-5 will do the same on Thursday, December 18.

Winter Concerts

2008-12-09T15:23:00.000-08:00

Elementary Concert: Thursday, Dec. 11 at 7:00pm. Please have vocal students to the school at 6:40pm so their teachers can get them lined up and ready for the concert. 5th Grade band students report to the band room at 6:30pm.

6-12 Concert: Thursday, Dec. 18 at 7:00pm. Band students report at 6:30pm, vocal students to the vocal room at 6:40pm. Concert attire is dresses and tuxes for band, robes (black pants and black shoes) for the choir.

Show Choir Rehearsals

2008-12-09T15:14:00.000-08:00

Show Choir routinely meets on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7am. In addition, we will be having several other rehearsals in order to learn our choreography. Those dates are:
Wed. Dec. 10, 3:30-5:00pm
Mon. Dec. 15, 7:00-8:30pm
Mon. Dec. 29, 9:00am-2:00pm
These are planned around basketball, jazz band, and other conflicts as best as possible.
Other dates TBA in January with the band joining us.

Poinsettias

2008-11-03T08:38:00.000-08:00

The Music Parents are selling poinsettias again this year, and the deadline for orders is Nov. 10. Color choices are red, pink, white, and marble, and the cost is $10. Please call Teri Harmon at the school if you would like to place an order.

Conference Vocal Festival Nov. 15

2008-11-03T08:35:00.000-08:00

The Rolling Hills Conference Vocal Festival is Saturday, November 15 at ICA in Des Moines. Rehearsals will be all day, with the concert at 7:00pm that evening. All chorus members please be sure you have this date written off at work!

Show Choir 2nd and 3rd Quarters

2008-11-03T08:33:00.001-08:00

Show Choir is a 2nd and 3rd quarter class. It begins Tuesday, Nov. 5th. Rehearsals will be every T/Th at 7am. We will have at least one Saturday choreography day coming up in the next month or so. More info. will be posted on that soon.

New Batch of Sunglasses!!

2008-10-13T13:30:00.000-07:00

The Music Parents have a new batch of Walnut Warrior sunglasses in! See their stand at Friday night's football game to purchase a new pair of sunglasses or other Walnut Warrior accessories!

State Marching Band Contest

2008-10-13T13:29:00.000-07:00

The WHS marching band will compete at state contest this Saturday, Oct. 18th, in Glenwood at 10:40am. The band will leave on the bus at 8:00am and return by 1:30pm. Please plan to attend and show your support of the band. Any parents who would like to volunteer as chaperones for the contest, please contact Mr. Kearney at the school. Also, in order to prepare for Saturday's contest, the band will run through their entire show Fri. night on the field following the football game. (Half-time is not long enough for them to perform the show in its entirety.)

PreK-5th Grade to Perform at Football Game

2008-10-13T13:27:00.000-07:00

PreK - 5th graders will be performing with the marching band Friday night at half-time of the football game. Those students will be admitted free to the game, and after their performance will be treated to hot dogs in the north end zone, courtesy of the Music Parents. Any parents who would like to help out in the serving of the hot dogs following the performance would be appreciated.

Food Delivery Date Changed

2008-10-13T13:21:00.000-07:00

The delivery date for the frozen food fund-raiser has been pushed back to October 28th. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause, but we appreciate your support of this fund-raiser and thank you for your patience.

Music Parents Meeting

2008-10-07T09:09:00.000-07:00

The next Music Parents meeting will be Saturday, Oct. 11 at 9:00am in the band room. If you are a parent of a 5-12 band or 6-12 chorus student, you are a Music Parent and are encouraged to attend!

Attention HS Chorus Parents

2008-09-18T18:58:00.000-07:00

HS Chorus students were given a Vocal Music Calendar and an Expectations Sheet containing grading and awards policies on the first day of class. The Expectations Sheet was to be signed by the parents and returned to Mrs. Kock. I am posting both here on the blog for anyone who may have lost their sheets and for reference purposes for families.

HS CHOIR EXPECTATIONS

GRADING POLICY
The school’s standard grading scale will be used to determine your letter grade. (90/80/70/60)
Grades will be figured as follows:
Quarter
Participation in class = 75%
Concert Attendance = 25%
(or make-up work)
Semester
Quarter Grades = 50% each
Due to our limited class time of only 2 days per week, and the complications of my Tuesday/Thursday schedule vs. your time in Atlantic classes, voice lessons will not be required as part of your quarterly grade except as make-up work for missing a concert. We will need to work something out for lesson time for those involved in small group contest when that season gets closer.

ANY ABSENCES FROM CONCERTS MUST BE MADE UP!
Concerts are like tests. If you missed a math test, you would have to make it up. I cannot recreate a concert setting for you to make up lost points. Therefore, the following policy was generated so as not to punish those who encounter emergency situations:
Excused absences (such as illness) will result in the requirement of 2 voice lessons. These lessons must be completed by the end of the quarter in which the concert occurred.
Unexcused absences will result in the requirement of a 750-word report on a classical composer (in your own words, bibliography included). This written work must be completed within 2 calendar weeks of the concert date, or you will not receive any make-up points for missing the concert.

Weekly academic eligibility lists will not apply in graded music situations. Concerts are graded, so regardless of your academic eligibility, you will be expected to participate. (If you failed math, we wouldn’t restrict you from taking your science test.) The only two exceptions to this policy are small group contest and the state’s Academic Scholarship Rule. Small group contest is voluntary and extra credit. Therefore, you must be academically eligible to participate. The Scholarship Rule applies to those failing any course at semester. Those students must sit out of all activities, including music, x number of days, according to the state. See Mr. Binns if you’d like more details on the state policy.
EXTRA CREDIT
Any extra credit will be added to the Participation portion of your grade, not to Concert Attendance.
Extra credit is given for the following:
2 points for each voice lesson taken, whether with Mrs. Kock or another vocal instructor (Mr. Kearney, for example, or a private teacher)
1 point per performance if member of a church choir, or if you perform as special music in a service (bring in a bulletin from the service)
5 points if you perform in a cantata or community choir
2 points for attendance, 5 points for helping, at elementary concert
1 point per outside concert attended (for example, a Tim McGraw concert or another school’s musical) with one paragraph summary telling me when, where, who, and what you thought of it.

HS CHOIR LETTERS & AWARDS
All members of choir will letter at the end of the year unless:
A. you have an excused absence from a concert and do not complete the make-up work; (Making up an excused absence will not affect letters or awards. In other words, do the make-up work for an excused concert absence and you’ll be fine.)
or B. you have an unexcused concert absence, regardless of completion of the make-up work.
Top-of-the-class (9th, 10th, etc.) choir awards will be given based on a point system Mrs. Kock has established. The point system rewards participation – the more active you are in choir activities, the more points you earn. If you would like more detailed information about the system, see Mrs. Kock.

A High School Choir Calendar is attached to this form. Please include all required dates on your home, work, and personal calendars. Let employers know these dates now so that you’re sure not to be scheduled to work these days. “I didn’t know about the concert” will not be an accepted excuse for missing it, given this advance notice.

**Please sign and return this portion to Mrs. Kock by Thurs. Sept. 4**
Your signature below does not signify your agreement with any of the above policies. Your signature below simply signifies the fact that you have read the above policies and are aware that they exist.
Thank you!! Mrs. Kock

__________________________
Parent/guardian
__________________________
Student

HS Vocal Music Calendar 08/09

2nd & 3rd Quarters: 7:00am T/Th Show Choir practice
Tues. Nov. 11: Veterans’ Day Assembly, during school
Sat. Nov. 15: Rolling Hills Conference Choir
Festival @ ICA, day time rehearsal, 7:00pm concert
Thurs. Dec. 11: Elementary Winter Concert, 7:00pm
Thurs. Dec. 18: MS/HS Winter Concert, 7:00pm
Mon. Feb. 2: State Show Choir Contest @ Denison
Mon. Feb. 9: SWICDA HS Honor Choir @ IWCC
(select few to participate)
Thurs. Feb. 12: Pops Concert, 7:00pm
Fri. March 6: Music Carnival
Sat. March 7: Bellevue East Jazz Fest
(Show Choir & Jazz Band only)
Tues. March 24: ICDA 5th – 8th Grade Honor Choir
@ Treynor, day time rehearsal, 7:00pm concert
Sat. April 18: State Small Group Contest
Thurs. April 23: Elementary Spring Concert, 7:00pm
Thurs. April 30: MS/HS Spring Concert, 7:00pm
Fri. May 8: State Large Group Contest
Wed. May 20: Baccalaureate (not 100% certainty that we will perform, but this is the date for this event)
Sun. May 24: Graduation 2:00pm

We may add at least one more show choir contest to this calendar.

To stay informed of vocal events, check the activities calendar on the website. Also, you may visit the band/vocal blog on the school website to hear directly from the department about various music info.Visit: http://walnutcs.walnut.iowapages.org/

Music Dept. Fund-Raiser

2008-09-10T19:56:00.000-07:00

The 5-12 band and 6-12 vocal students are currently selling frozen food items to raise money for the music department. Funds will be used (or saved until we accumulate enough funds) to purchase show choir dresses, more microphones for the sound system we purchased last year, a marching tuba, and an accoustic sound shell to use in the gym for concerts. If you would like to show your support of the music department through the purchase of some tasty treats, see a Walnut music student or contact Teri Harmon in the high school office at 712-784-3615. Sales run through Sept. 23, and food delivery will be on Oct. 13. Checks are to be made payable to the Music Parents.

Music Parents Meeting

2008-09-10T19:48:00.000-07:00

The next Music Parents meeting is Saturday, October 11 at 9:00am in the band room. We will be discussing the food fund-raiser, poinsettia sales, the pop shoots at basketball games, and the possibility of a music department trip, among miscellaneous other things. We welcome and encourage any and all parents of Walnut music students to attend these monthly meetings.

Warrior Marching Band Members - 2008

2008-06-06T17:24:00.000-07:00

Mr. Kearney has announced the following members of the Warrior Marching Band for 2008:
Piccolo/Flute - Breanna***
Clarinet - Hannah, Makala
Alto Sax - Amy, Ashli***
Horn - Ben
Trumpet - Samantha, Josie, Andrew, Justin, Zach
Trombone - Haley***, Lucas, Josh
Basses - Eli, Sam
Drumline - Derek, Micah, Erran, Blayne, Erika, Marye, Josie***, Valerie, Ty, Cody, Thomas
Dum Major - Dillan
Flags - To be Announced

*** - Denotes middle school accelerated

Letter regarding Band Camp to students/parents

2008-06-06T17:16:00.000-07:00

I hope your school year has gone well. We have been busy here in the band department already preparing for the upcoming school year. As we near the end of the year, preparations are in place for summer activities and our fall Band Camp. As noted on the 2008-09 summer calendars, band camp dates are July 28 - August 1 from 9:00 - 3:00.

Band Camp is the most critical week of the year for our band. It not only "sets the tone" for the marching season, it prepares students for band activities throughout the entire school year. Band Camp is the time to lay a solid foundation for the critical areas of a successful marching band, such as musical skills, social/attitude development, marching/visual skills, and strength development.

As noted in the student calendars, July 22-24 is a fundamentals camp for all members. We will review the basic marching fundamentals and skills that are required for the week of band camp. Also, the week of August 18-22 is scheduled for post camp sectionals with times and dates to be arranged.

Our goal for Band Camp 2008 is to teach marching fundamentals and skills that are needed in learning the marching show. Our marching show theme is "70's Revisited". The music and drill is very challenging and it is critical that your child attend the scheduled rehearsal dates.

It is mandatory that every member of the Walnut Warrior Band attend Band Camp on July 28 - August 1. If a member cannot attend band camp, the parent should contact Mr. Kearney and discuss the options for the school year. Members not attending band camp that are unexcused or have not made prior arrangements will not participate in band for 2008.

Here is a list of items that are required during the week of pre camp and band camp:
- water bottle
- athletic shoes, sneakers or tennis shoes (no sandals or flip flop thongs)
- socks
- sun block
- hats and sunshades (for outdoor activities)
- three ring notebook binder to hold marching music and drill
- light clothing that fits loose

We will be outside during the week of pre camp and band camp and these essential items are helpful in coping with the heat and sun.

Congratulations on being a part of the Warrior band experience. I look forward to seeing you at band camp 08.

Mr. Kearney

2008-06-06T17:13:00.000-07:00

The Walnut Music Parents next meeting is June 7th, 2008 at 8 a.m. in the Walnut Community School Band Room. Please come and join them as they make plans for the coming year's activities.

Jazz Band Contest

2008-03-05T14:28:00.000-08:00

The Walnut Jazz Band will compete in a jazz contest on Saturday, March 8, 2008. They will perform at 12:30 at Bellevue East High School in Bellevue, NE.

Music Parents Meeting

2008-02-23T19:39:00.000-08:00

The next Music Parents meeting will be Saturday, March 15 at 8:00am in the band room.

Music Carnival

2008-02-23T19:30:00.001-08:00

The annual Music Carnival will be Friday, March 7. The evening will begin with performances by the jazz choir and jazz band at 6:30pm, followed by coronation. Games will begin immediately after coronation and last until 9:00pm. All 6-12 vocal and 5-12 instrumental students and their parents are scheduled to help in some way. The schedule and assignments will be mailed out the week of Feb. 25. If you are unable to work at your scheduled time, please be sure to find your own replacement from the list in the mailing. Students will be selling raffle tickets for $50 gift certificates to the Mall of the Bluffs. Advanced game ticket sales will be Monday - Thursday the week of carnival in the hallway between the 4th and 5th grade rooms. Advance game tickets are 5/$1. The night of carnival, they will be 4/$1. All music families are asked to provide a pie or cake for the pie/cakewalk. Please note that there will be no concession stand this year. Plan to attend for an evening of music, games, and fun for all!

Jazz Choir Contest

2008-02-23T19:27:00.001-08:00

The Walnut Jazz Choir will perform at Council Bluffs Lewis Central's jazz/show choir invitational contest on Saturday, March 1 at 9:10am. We will leave from the school at 7:30am. The contest is open to the public for a small admission fee.

Musical

2008-02-23T19:22:00.000-08:00

The Walnut Music Department will present the musical "The Nifty Fifties" on Friday, Feb. 29 at 7:00pm and Sunday, March 2 at 2:00pm. Admission is $5/person, children under 5 are free. The musical is under the direction of Mr. Kearney.

High School Honor Choir

2008-01-29T11:53:00.000-08:00

On Monday, Feb. 4, the WHS vocal department will participate in the SW Iowa Choral Directors Association Honor Choir. Students attending this all day event will be Kelsey Helms, Brittnie Harlow, Amanda Lebeck, Rebecca Kobs, Josh Osborn, Zach Hamilton, Thomas Gregory, and Seth Griffith. The concert will be at 7:00pm at the Performing Arts Center at Iowa Western Community College. The honor choir will be under the direction of Joel Johnston. Students are reminded to bring their music and appropriate robe attire. We are leaving from the school at 7:45am.

State Jazz Choir

2008-01-24T20:50:00.001-08:00

Saturday, Jan. 26 is state jazz choir contest in Winterset. The Walnut Jazz Choir performs at 10:00am. The contest is open to the public for a small admission fee.

6-12 Pops Concert

2008-01-24T20:45:00.001-08:00

The 6-12 pops concert is Thursday, Jan. 31 at 7:00pm in the old gym. Admission is $3/adult, $2/student. Refreshments and desserts will be served. Each high school band/choir member's family is asked to provide one dessert. Recipes were sent home and asked to be brought to the old gym by 6:15 that evening. Please mark your pan with your name and pick it up after the concert is over.

Music Parents Meeting

2008-01-24T20:43:00.000-08:00

The next Music Parents meeting will be Saturday, Feb. 2 at 8:00am in the band room. Please plan to attend and help with plans for the music carnival.

MS/HS Winter Concert

2007-11-29T11:48:00.001-08:00

The 6-12 Winter Concert is Thursday, December 13 at 7:00pm in the new gym. The band, middle school choir, and high school choir will perform. Band members are to report at 6:30 in appropriate concert attire, and choir members are to report at 6:40. The choir will wear their robes, black pants (or a skirt for the girls), and black shoes.

Elementary Winter Concert

2007-11-29T11:45:00.000-08:00

The Elementary Winter Concert is Thursday, December 6 at 7:00pm in the new gym. The following letter went home to parents:

November 15, 2007

Dear Elementary Parent,

The elementary concert will soon be upon us. It is Thursday, December 6 at 7:00pm in the new gym. I realize this is a conflict with a wrestling meet and high school girls’ basketball game. I apologize for that, as it could not be helped this year. Please know that we do our best to avoid as many conflicts as we can and that it’s quite difficult to find concert dates that do not conflict with another activity.

The 3rd – 5th Grades are doing a musical called “December ‘Round the World.” It’s all about the many holidays that happen during December around the world. For this concert, I’m asking that 3-5 dress up in their best dress clothes like the Kindergarten – 2nd Grades always do (no blue jeans.) If your child really wants to dress in a costume, he/she could dress in traditional Mexican fiesta clothing, possibly including a sombrero (if it’s not too big and would interfere with choreography or the audience’s view of other students); a Japanese kimono; traditional African clothes; plaid German knickers; etc. You can get several ideas from the internet if you look up the holidays we’ll be recognizing: Christmas, Kwanzaa, Hanukkah, Ramadan, St. Nicholas Day, Las Posadas, and the Chinese New Year. I’m guessing band members are planning to wear black pants and a white shirt, as they usually do, but Mr. Kearney is out of the building today to confirm that detail. Please be sure to check with him if you are in band. The 5th Graders will have time to quickly change into other outfits for the musical after the band performs, if they choose to do so.
Also, for the Hanukkah song in the musical, each student needs a flashlight or a battery-operated candle. Please limit the size of the flashlights to no larger than approximately 10” long, and no heavy metal Mag Lights. Please send these lights to school with the student at your earliest possible convenience for rehearsals. Make sure they are labeled with the student’s name. If you have more than one and are willing to share with a student who doesn’t have one, please bring extras. I will find flashlights to loan students who do not have one, which is why I’d like all lights to be brought to school as soon as possible so I know how many more I need to get.

Kindergarten – 2nd Grades will also be singing about different December holidays. They will sing about Las Posadas, Hanukkah, and Christmas. K-2 are asked to dress up, no blue jeans.

Kindergarten – 2nd Grades will report to the music room at 6:40 to take attendance and get lined up for the concert. 3rd - 4th Grades and 5th Graders who are NOT in band will report to the northwest corner of the bleachers to take attendance and sit with their teachers until the musical starts. 5th Grade band members will report to the band room at 6:30 to tune and get their music.

All of the students have worked hard preparing for this concert. Please make every effort to stay for the entire concert rather than take your child home as soon as they are done performing. I look forward to seeing you at the concert! Thank you for your cooperation and support of your child’s music education!

Sincerely,

Mrs. Sarah J. Kock
Vocal Music K-5, 9-12

P.S. Just for your own information: 3-5 will be going to Peace Haven on Tuesday, December 18 at 1:00 to perform a few of the songs from their musical for the residents. K-2 will be going to Peace Haven on Thursday, December 20 at 1:00. You may attend those performances if you wish, but space is limited and the main purpose of the performance is to share it with the Peace Haven residents. I just wanted to share the information with you so that you are aware of your child’s location on those days

Music Parents Meeting

2007-11-29T11:44:00.001-08:00

The next Music Parents meeting will be Saturday, December 8th at 8:00am in the band room.

Conference Vocal Festival

2007-10-28T14:08:00.001-07:00

The Conference Vocal Festival will be held at the Elk Horn Kimballton High School on Tuesday, November 6th, 2007. A concert will be held at 7:00 p.m. at EHK. It is open to the public for a small admission fee. Students will be leaving school at 9:15 am and will be returning after the evening concert. Chorus is a graded, co-curricular class and each performance is figured in as part of the student's grade, including this performance. Students need to remember to return their signed assignments sheets to Mrs. Kock by the end of the day on Thursday, November 1st and also let Mrs. Kock know whether they want to reserve food at EHK for a flat $10.00 fee. This will include snacks, drinks, lunch & supper. The fee needs to be paid to Mrs. Kock at the time of the reservation. Nice clothes are required for the concert. Absolutely no jeans can be worn.

Poinsettias for Sale

2007-10-28T13:49:00.000-07:00

Once again the Walnut Music Parents will be selling poinsettias to raise money for the WCS music program. Poinsettias will be $10 each, with your choice of Red, White, Pink or Marble poinsettias. The order deadline is November 1st, with delivery dates of November 22nd and December 6th (Elementary Concert). If you would like to order a poinsettia please call any of the following numbers: WCS - 784-3615, Teri @ 784-3604, Claudia @ 784-2260 or Cyndi @ 784-3768.

Band achieves II rating at Iowa State Marching Band Competition

2007-10-23T11:50:00.001-07:00

The Walnut marching band, under the direction of Mr. Bill Kearney, traveled to Council Bluffs to compete at the Iowa State Marching Band Competition on Saturday, October 13th, 2007. The marching band competed as the last band of the day, following the Lewis Central marching band, because of the morning funeral of one of the member's father. If the pressure wasn't on to perform already by following other 4A schools, the Walnut marching band members also had to contend with the Lewis Central marching band watching from the stands, instead of exiting the field. However, this proved to be a challenge that the Walnut students took on with heads held high as they performed their routine under the direction of Dillan Hamilton as the drum major. As the band exited the playing field, the crowd was treated to a special drum line exit started by Derek Frahm and quickly picked up and supported by the rest of the drum line. This exit to the right of the field, ended in a pinwheel of the band members directly in front of the Lewis Central marching band, much to their delight. After only 2 years of existence, the Walnut Marching Band was excited to receive a Division II rating at the competition this year. Way to go Mr. Kearney and the Walnut Marching Band!

Show Your Warrior Pride

2007-10-08T07:17:00.000-07:00

The Music Parents are selling Walnut Warrior jewelry and accessories at home football games and at the home volleyball game on Tues. Oct. 9. Warrior dog tags! Warrior sun glasses! Warrior earrings! Warrior necklaces! Etc.
All items are $7 each, except for watches, which are $20. Show your Warrior pride by purchasing and wearing WHS jewelry and accessories.

Music Parents Meeting

2007-10-08T07:07:00.000-07:00

The next Music Parents meeting will be Saturday, Oct. 20 at 8:00am in the band room. Please join us to discuss fund raisers and other current activities in the music department.

Music Department Fund Raiser

2007-09-14T14:33:00.000-07:00

All 5-12 band and 6-12 vocal students are in the midst of a new fund raiser. We are working with a new company this year called "The Taste of Homemade." Students are taking orders for food items such as pizza, cookie dough, funnel cakes, lasagna, and much more. The students can earn fun electronics, Warrior sports wear, and even cash prizes for selling items. The music department hopes to purchase a new sound system with the money that is earned through this year's fund raisers. Please call the school at 712-784-3615 if you would like to purchase some of the tasty items we are selling, or if you would simply like to make a donation to the department. The Taste of Homemade sales run through September 24.

Next Music Parents Meeting (date change)

2007-08-29T05:05:00.000-07:00

The next Music Parents meeting will be in the band room at 9:00am on Saturday, Sept. 8. Please note that this is a change in date and time of the originally scheduled September meeting. Come and hear about up-coming fund raisers for the department. Volunteer to help out on one of the various marching band committees. Or, simply attend the meeting and have a say in the plans for using the funds that are raised for the betterment of your child's musical experience at Walnut Comm. School. If you have a child involved in band or music at WCS, then YOU are a Music Parent, and you are welcome and encouraged to attend the meetings! Hope to see you there!

Vocal Music Calendar

2007-08-21T13:03:00.001-07:00

Vocal Music Calendar 07/08

2nd & 3rd Quarters: 7:00am T/Th Jazz Choir practice
November 6: Rolling Hills Conference Choir Festival
@ EHK, day time rehearsal, 7:00pm concert
December 6: Elementary Winter Concert
December 13: MS/HS Winter Concert
January 26: State Jazz Choir Contest
January 31: Pops Concert 7:00pm
February 4: SWICDA HS Honor Choir @ IWCC
(select few to participate)
*February 27: Musical Matinee
*February 28-29: HS Musical
March 1: Jazz Choir Contest @ Lewis Central
March 7: Music Carnival
March 25: ICDA Elementary/Junior High Honor Choir
April 12: State Small Group Contest
May 3: State Large Group Contest
May 14: Baccalaureate (not 100% certainty that we will perform, but this is the date for this event)
May 18: Graduation 2:00pm

*Please note that the musical dates may be pushed back one day to Feb. 28 – March 1. Watch the school website for changes.
We may add one more jazz choir contest to this calendar.

To stay informed of vocal events, check the activities calendar on the website. Also, you may visit the new band/vocal blog on the school website to hear directly from the department about various music info.
Visit: http://walnutcs.walnut.iowapages.org/

High School Choir Expectations Sheet

2007-08-21T12:54:00.000-07:00

HS CHOIR EXPECTATIONS

GRADING POLICY
The school’s standard grading scale will be used to determine your letter grade.
Grades will be figured as follows:
Quarter Semester
Participation in class = 75% Quarter Grades = 45% each
Concert Attendance = 25% Semester Test = 10%
(or make-up work)
Due to our limited class time of only 2 days per week, and the complications of my Tuesday/Thursday schedule vs. your time in Atlantic classes, written work and voice lessons will not be required as part of your quarterly grade except as make-up work for missing a concert. We will need to work something out for lesson time for those involved in small group contest when that season gets closer.

ANY ABSENCES FROM CONCERTS MUST BE MADE UP!
If you are going to miss a concert, please contact Mrs. Kock or the high school office prior to the concert. Concerts are like tests. If you missed a math test, you would have to make it up. I cannot recreate a concert setting for you to make up lost points. Therefore, the following policy was generated so as not to punish those who encounter emergency situations:
Excused absences (such as illness) will result in the requirement of 2 voice lessons. These lessons must be completed by the end of the quarter in which the concert occurred.
Unexcused absences will result in the requirement of a 750-word report on a classical composer (in your own words, bibliography included). This written work must be completed within 2 calendar weeks of the concert date, or you will not receive any make-up points for missing the concert.

EXTRA CREDIT
Any extra credit will be added to the Participation portion of your grade, not to Concert Attendance.
Extra credit is given for the following:
2 points for each voice lesson taken, whether with Mrs. Kock or another vocal instructor (Mr. Kearney, for example, or a private teacher)
1 point per performance if member of a church choir, or if you perform as special music in a service (bring in a bulletin from the service for Mrs. K.)
5 points if you perform in a cantata or community choir
2 points for attendance, 5 points for helping, at elementary concert (bring in a program from the concert for Mrs. K.)
1 point per outside concert attended (for example, a Tim McGraw concert or another school’s musical) with one paragraph summary telling me when, where, who, and what you thought of it.

HS CHOIR LETTERS & AWARDS
All members of choir will letter at the end of the year unless you miss a concert, excused or unexcused, and do not complete the make-up work or if you have more than one unexcused concert absence, regardless of completion of the make-up work.
Top-of-the-class (9th, 10th, etc.) choir awards will be given based on a point system Mrs. Kock has established. The point system rewards participation – the more active you are in choir activities, the more points you earn. If you would like more detailed information about the system, see Mrs. Kock.

A High School Choir Calendar is attached to this form. Please include all required dates on your home, work, and personal calendars. Let employers know these dates now so that you’re sure not to be scheduled to work these days. “I didn’t know about the concert” will not be an accepted excuse for missing it, given this advance notice.

**Please sign and return this portion to Mrs. Kock by Thurs. Aug. 30**
Your signature below does not signify your agreement with any of the above policies. Your signature below simply signifies the fact that you have read the above policies and are aware that they exist.
Thank you!! Mrs. Kock

__________________________ _____________________________
Parent/guardian & Student please sign

High School Choir Info.

2007-08-21T12:09:00.000-07:00

Welcome back to school!! And welcome to high school choir!! I was so excited to see several new faces in the choir today! I can't wait to get busy singing. First days hold a certain excitement, but not much musically. There are lots of "housekeeping" issues that must be discussed before we can dig in and begin singing. Each high school choir member received an Expectations Sheet and a Vocal Music Calendar. The Expectations Sheet explains grading and awards policies, and must be returned signed by the parents by Thurs. Aug. 30. Attached to that sheet was the calendar. It lists all vocal music events that are currently scheduled on the school calendar. If you would like to view or print either the Expectations Sheet or the Vocal Music Calendar, please see the appropriate blog here on this site. I've copied and pasted the two documents as separate blogs from the Word files on my computer so that you can view them here. (A great way to get a new Expectations Sheet if your son/daughter has lost theirs, since it needs to be signed and returned to Mrs. Kock.) Be sure to check this website now and then for any changes or additions to the vocal music calendar.
I look forward to a great year!!

Music Parents Meeting

2007-08-09T20:15:00.000-07:00

The next Music Parents meeting will be in the band room at 5:00pm on Tuesday, Sept. 4. Come and hear about up-coming fund raisers for the department. Volunteer to help out on one of the various marching band committees. Or, simply attend the meeting and have a say in the plans for using the funds that are raised for the betterment of your child's musical experience at Walnut Comm. School. If you have a child involved in band or music at WCS, then YOU are a Music Parent, and you are welcome and encouraged to attend the meetings! Hope to see you there!

Band Camp Images

2007-08-08T11:09:00.000-07:00

Marching Band to perform at 1st Home Football Game

2007-07-16T17:48:00.000-07:00

The Walnut Community School Marching Band will perform during the half time of the first home football game on August 31st. This will be an exciting show as the band students will be able to show off their fundamentals learned during Band Camp 2007. Make sure you come out and show your support for them.

WCS Music Parents clean Uniforms & Choir Robes

2007-07-16T17:37:00.000-07:00

The WCS Music Parents have been busy this summer, organizing and taking to the cleaners over 250 pieces of band uniforms, choir robes (both high school & middle school), tuxedo shirts and show choir dresses. Mending still needs to be completed on some of these items, as repairs to zippers and buttons still need to be completed by the start of school in August.

We hope that everyone enjoys the nice, clean garments during the 2007-2008 school year! Thanks to the Music Parents who were willing to load them all into the Bryan Suburban and to Julie for making 2 trips to Omaha to deliver and pick up all of the uniforms.

Band Camp coming soon!

2007-07-16T17:15:00.000-07:00

Mr. Kearney has announced that Fundamentals Camp will be held July 23rd - 27th with Band Camp 2007 the next week on July 30th - August 3rd, 2007. Fundamentals Camp will review the basic marching fundamentals and skills that will be required the next week at Band Camp. The goal for Band Camp 2007, says Mr. Kearney, is to teach marching fundamentals and skills that are needed in learning the marching show. The marching show theme this year is a Spanish/Latin show and both the music and drill is going to prove to be quite challenging this year.

All students are required to attend. If you cannot attend, prior arrangements must be made by the student's parents with Mr. Kearney.

Items to bring with you to Fundamentals Camp and Band Camp are: water bottle, athletic shoes, sneakers or tennis shoes (no sandals or flip flop thongs), socks, sun block, hats and sunshades, three ring notebook binder to hold marching music and drill, light clothing that fits loose.

Fundamentals Camp will be from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. daily. Band Camp will be from 9 am to 3 p.m. daily with a talent show, a marching exhibition and an Ice Cream Social rounding out the week on Friday, August 3rd at 12:30 p.m.