[Changes from printed handbook are in this color.]
AYC
MISSION STATEMENT
The Mission of
the Atlanta Youth Choir is to provide an exceptional environment in
which a community of young artists emerges to experience musical
excellence, personal growth, intellectual stimulation, social
development, and awareness of each person’s unique relationship to the
community around them through performance-based music education and
exemplary presentations of choral music.
General Information
Office
Information
Office and Rehearsal
Location:
|
Mailing Address: |
Atlanta Youth Choir
c/o Westminster Presbyterian Church
2208 East Main Street
Snellville, Georgia 30078 |
AYC
P.O. Box 1332
Snellville, Georgia 30078 |
Phone/Fax
|
Website: |
Phone: 770-982-0549
Fax: 770-982-0530 |
atlantayouthchoir.org |
Communication. Because of the
size of AYC and its numerous activities, effective communication
between parents and staff members is essential. If you have any
questions, please call the AYC office at 770-982-0549 or email Julie
Kolacki, AYC Choir Administrator, at info@aims-online.org.
Tools
of Communication.
Parent Mailboxes.
Each week, parents pick up their paperwork from their personal Parent
Mailboxes located in the Interlude Room. This file will contain
the “AYC Weekly”, flyers pertinent to the upcoming week, and any
individual communication to you from the staff.
The “AYC Weekly”.
The “AYC Weekly” is a weekly mini-newsletter with information
pertaining to that week and important upcoming events. The “AYC
Weekly” is available in the Parent Mailboxes located in the Interlude
Room.
Electronic.
Email is the most efficient method of communication with the
choir. AYC has an “e-group" email loop through “Yahoo!" services.
We will use this form of communication for information updates,
changes, news "flashes", etc. Each family with an email address
is automatically added to the email loop. Please check your email regularly.
If your email address changes, please notify the AYC office immediately, in order for updated
and accurate records to be maintained. A directory, calendar
information, newsletters, event logistics, and other information will
be available online at the AYC web site. Although electronic
communication is essential to the communication process, if you do not
have access to email or the internet, please notify the Administrator.
“Calling Post” Message
Service. Important messages will be sent through the
“Calling Post” message service. This service provides quick
dissemination of important information. If you missed a Calling
Post Message, call 1-800-925-7443, then enter 119.210.8844 and you will
hear the last message delivered.
“The Score”.
A periodic newsletter, "The Score", is published and sent to each
family via email. Notify AYC if you do not have an email account
and wish to receive a printed copy in your Parent Mailbox. Please
read each newsletter thoroughly and mark your calendars accordingly.
Correspondence,
Etc. There will be occasions when you will need to
correspond with the office, i.e., pre-arranged absence forms, notes,
etc. A lock-box is provided for your use. It is always
located in the Interlude Room during rehearsal. Please drop your
correspondence in the lock-box. If your correspondence requires
action by AYC, you will be contacted. Please feel free to call
the AYC office at 770-982-0549 with any concerns or questions.
Directory Information.
A Directory is available on the AYC web site; updates will be posted
online during the season. If you do not have access to the
Internet, we would be happy to provide you with a printed copy.
Use this information judiciously.
PLEASE
DO NOT PROVIDE ANY OTHER GROUP(S) WITH AYC’S DIRECTORY INFORMATION.
AYC Name, Logo & Skyline.
The name Atlanta Youth Choir, the AYC Logo and the AYC Skyline logo are
trademarked and copyrighted and are the sole property of
AIMS/AYC. Unauthorized use is prohibited.
Organization
Information
The Atlanta Institute for Musicianship and Singing (AIMS), a
community-based arts organization, is a not-for-profit corporation with
501(c)(3) status. The Atlanta Youth Choir is an integral part of
AIMS. An active Board of Directors, comprising community leaders,
music professionals and parents, works to guide and support the
organization. Operating costs are offset by singer tuition,
individual donations, and corporate contributions. Parents are
encouraged to become involved through a variety of volunteer
activities. Historically, AYC singers represent over thirty-two
public, private, parochial, and home schools in nine metro Atlanta
counties.
Auditions. Formal
auditions for AYC are held annually February through August and are
open to singers from second through twelfth grades. To schedule an
audition, please call 770-982-0549. Auditions are not necessary
for singers enrolling in consecutive years, unless a singer desires
consideration for placement in a more advanced AYC choir.
Philosophy/Curriculum. The Atlanta
Institute for Musicianship & Singing/Atlanta Youth Choir affords an
opportunity for each young artist to recognize, develop, and express
his or her individual creativity through collaborative artistry. Young
artists study and perform a wide variety of repertoire—from simple,
unison folk songs to masterworks of the classical eras, to complex,
multi-part, mixed metered contemporary works. Musical masterpieces from
all genres provide the basis for a successful musical education.
Because musical excellence is at the core of everything we do, AIMS/AYC
choirs only sing music of the highest quality.
Rehearsals are
carefully crafted to provide opportunities for exploration. Each young
artist is challenged to explore the body, mind and voice connection.
Rather than employing the traditional model of constantly telling the
singers what to do, AIMS/AYC conductors actively engage young artists
in acts of musical thinking; encouraging singers to create their own
understanding through “target practice.” Musical concepts, like melody,
rhythm, dynamics, timbre, harmony, style and form are introduced and
explored through performance based methods—singing, listening, and
analysis. Efficient breathflow to soundflow vocal production is
explored through a variety of musical experiences which involve a
“whole body connection.”
Research has
shown that we remember the things we do and experience more than the
things we are told or shown. Therefore, we provide opportunities for
all kinds of doing and knowing. (Howard Gardner’s Theory of Multiple
Intelligences.) Genuine artistic expression and communication only
emerges when young artists are able to hear, conceptualize, perceive
and respond musically without prompting. Therefore, we provide
opportunities for young artists to sing individually and in small
groups to further develop their musicianship and self-confidence.
Commitment to School Music Programs.
The success of the Atlanta Institute for Musicianship & Singing has
been dependent in large part on the support of music teachers in the
greater Atlanta metropolitan area. AYC young artists should be leaders
in their school music ensembles. It is our intention that all AYC young
artists be active participants in their school choirs, bands, and
orchestras if those ensembles are available.
AIMS Choirs. The Atlanta
Institute for Musicianship & Singing (AIMS) supports five (5)
distinct Choirs. The “Atlanta Youth Choir” includes Cantori,
Cantabile, Cantemus, Camerata and Fraterna Musica. All AIMS choirs are
dedicated to excellence in musicianship and all provide age and ability
appropriate instruction in efficient voice production and usage,
solfeggio, music reading, sight-singing, musical theory, and
collaborative artistry.
Cantori.
Cantori is a preparatory level choir open to young artists in grades 2
through 5.
Cantabile.
Cantabile consists of young artists in grades 6 through 9.
Cantemus.
Cantemus is an all female ensemble comprising young artists in grades 9
through 12.
Camerata.
Camerata is a mixed ensemble (SATB) composed of selected Cantemus and
Fraterna Musica singers.
Fraterna Musica (FM).
Fraterna Musica is an all male ensemble that provides a singing home
for changing and changed male voices.
All AIMS choirs
perform alone and in combination with each other.
Young Artist Leaders. Chosen
from applications submitted Young Artist Leaders are selected from
Cantemus, Fraterna Musica (or in rare exceptions, 8th or 9th grade
males in Cantabile).Young Artist Leaders are assigned a “village” of
singers with whom they keep contact and mentor throughout the concert
season. Each Young Artist Leader is responsible for developing a
community service project to complete with members of his or her
village. Young Artist Leaders also assist in planning annual
events such as the Lock-In, Pot-Lucks, and the Christmas Party.
Staff.
Executive
Director
Whit Matteson joined the AIMS/AYC
Board of Directors in 2002, after retiring from over 20 years at
Hewlett Packard Co. In 2004, Whit was hired as the Executive
Director of AIMS/AYC, managing all the day-to-day operations of the
organization. In addition to his business experience, Whit brings
a musical background to the job – he has sung in and directed choirs
for most of his life, plays the piano, and wishes he could play the
cello better. He served as Board member and President of the
Genesee Valley Orchestra and Chorus in New York before moving to
Atlanta in 1995 with his wife, Susan, and their three sons.
Artistic
Director and Conductor
G. Phillip Shoultz, III,
an accomplished conductor, educator, vocalist, and speaker, is widely
known for his work with singers of all ages and abilities. In addition
to his work with the Atlanta Institute for Musicianship and
Singing/Atlanta Youth Choir, Phillip currently serves the Snellville
United Methodist Church as Director of Music Ministries, and also
serves as Artistic Director of the Gwinnett Choral Guild.
A two–time
National Semi-Finalist in the ACDA Student Conducting Competition,
singers under his tutelage have performed in many prestigious venues
including Carnegie Hall, and the Piccolo Spoleto Festival. While
serving Winder-Barrow Middle School as Director of Choral/General Music
studies, Phillip was named Teacher of the Year by three organizations;
his choirs won two Sweepstakes trophies in the Southern Star Music
Festival, received First place trophies in Musicfest Orlando, and
consistently received Superior ratings in GMEA District Choral
Festivals.
Phillip holds
the Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Music degrees, Magna Cum Laude
with High Honors, from the University of Georgia and has completed the
coursework towards the Master of Music degree from Georgia State
University. Through the Choral Music Experience Institute, he has
completed two levels of advanced certification courses. Phillip
frequently appears as a guest clinician for District and Area Honor
Choirs throughout the southeast, adjudicates solo and choral festivals,
and serves as guest voice educator to many schools, churches and
community organizations.
An active member
of the Voice Care Network, Phillip believes that singing is a lifelong
activity in which every person can experience great joy. He is
passionate about building community and developing unity through
corporate singing experiences.
Associate
Conductor
Jenny Hutton has
spent seven years teaching general and choral music to
students ranging
from ages 3-18. She created and implemented a comprehensive music
curriculum at Counterpane School, a private Montessori school in
Fayetteville, GA. She also founded an intergenerational chorus at the
school; the group’s members ranged from 4th graders through adult
teachers and parents.
Jenny graduated
from Amherst College in 1998, magna cum laude, Phi Beta Kappa, with a
B.A. in Psychology and Women’s and Gender Studies. Returning to her
hometown of Atlanta, she serendipitously earned a position as a music
teacher and immediately fell in love with it. She is currently
completing a Music Education degree at Georgia State University, where
she is the Theodore Presser Foundation Scholar, a Faculty Scholar, and
a recipient of the Dean's Scholarship Key. She plans to begin work on
her Masters degree in Choral Conducting in 2006.
Jenny has earned
Levels I, II and III certification in Orff-Schulwerk. She has also
instructed other professional educators in Orff-Schulwerk certification
programs, teaching recorder skills and recorder pedagogy.
Though Jenny's
greatest musical passion is choral music, her nearly 25years of musical
experience include swing band drumming, solo classical singing, rock
guitar playing, and electronic music composition. As such, she brings a
perspective that values a wide range of music-making and performance
skills. She believes that every child is a born musician and that
everyone can benefit from the camaraderie, beauty, and artistic
communication that are hallmarks of fine choral singing.
Accompanist
Dr. Susan S. Matteson brings to
AIMS/AYC the valuable combination of excellent musical training, years
of performing and teaching experience, a keen interest in the musical
learning process and a strong commitment to sharing the many benefits
of understanding, appreciation and experiencing music. A native
of Chicago, Dr. Matteson has been performing and teaching in the
Atlanta area since 1996 as a sought-after accompanist, church musician,
organ soloist and private teacher. Prior to living in Georgia,
she taught music history, theory and performance courses in the State
University of New York college system. An accomplished pianist,
organist, harpsichordist and flautist, Dr. Matteson holds degrees from
Indiana University (Bachelor or Music), The Shepherd School of Music at
Rice University (Master of Music), and the Eastman School of Music
(Doctor of Musical Arts). She is the recipient of several
academic and performance awards and has performed nationally and
internationally. Dr. Matteson has been with the organization
since 1996.
Associate
Accompanist
Margaret Peterson
brings a wealth of training and experience to her role in the Atlanta
Youth Choir. With a degree in Organ Performance from the
University of Georgia, postgraduate study at Westminster Choir College
and private study in both piano and organ performance, her professional
experience as both an accompanist and director spans several major
Atlanta-area churches and youth choir organizations. A native of
Sylvania, Georgia, she moved to Atlanta after college to take up a
position as organist at the First Baptist Church in Decatur.
Today, in addition to her work with AYC, she is the organist at
Snellville United Methodist Church, one of the largest Methodist
churches in the United States.
Margaret lives
in Lawrenceville with her husband and two children, Katharine (15) and
James (11), in his third season with AYC.
Choir
Administrator
Julie Kolacki began her association
with the choir by volunteering when her two daughters, Jeanette and
Jennifer, were accepted in 1997. She coordinates the concert season
program, maintains the music and enrollment databases and has been on
the AYCPA Leadership Committee for seven years. Past
responsibilities have been Music Librarian, Travel Coordinator, and
Used Uniform Coordinator. This is her fifth season on staff as
Choir Administrator. Julie sings alto in her church choir and has been
married to her husband, John, for 27 years.
Financial
Information
Tuition. AYC is a non-profit
organization and tuition is a primary means of financial support.
Tuition is paid in annual, semi-annual or monthly installments.
Tuition is non-refundable.
A $50.00
non-refundable fee is due upon registration for each singer per year.
Registration is not included in the regular tuition fees.
If paying by
check, please make payable to AYC. In order to accurately credit your
young artist’s account, please remit payment with your child’s name and the purpose of the payment on
the check. Cash payments must be remitted in an envelope with
your child’s name and
the purpose of the
payment written on the envelope. You should receive a receipt for
any cash payments. If remitting tuition payment, please note to
which month the
payment is to be applied. A Lock-Box is provided in the Interlude
Room for all payments.
Tuition Payments/Schedule.
Tuition payments postmarked or hand-delivered to AYC more than ten (10)
days after their respective due dates will be considered late, and a
late payment fee of $10.00 will be assessed.
See schedule
below for tuition amounts and due dates. The first payment under
any plan is due when the young artist attends AYC Day Camp, or by
August 5, 2005, whichever comes first. Note that the second
payment on the Monthly payment plan is due by October 1, 2005.
Payment Plan |
Due date(s) |
Amount Due
First singer in family
|
Amount Due
for each Add’l singer |
Annually |
Day Camp (in July/Aug. 2005) |
$540.00 |
$450.00 |
Semi-Annually |
Day Camp (in July/Aug. 2005) |
$270.00
|
$225.00 |
January 10, 2006
|
$270.00
|
$225.00 |
Monthly |
Day Camp (in July/Aug. 2005) |
$120.00 |
$100.00 |
October 1, 2005 |
$60.00 |
$50.00 |
November 1, 2005 |
$60.00 |
$50.00 |
December 1, 2005
|
$60.00 |
$50.00 |
January 1, 2006 |
$60.00 |
$50.00 |
February 1, 2006 |
$60.00 |
$50.00 |
March 1, 2006 |
$60.00 |
$50.00 |
April 1, 2006 |
$60.00 |
$50.00 |
Tuition Waiver. If sufficient
organizational funds are available, a limited number of partial,
need-based tuition waivers may be offered to returning singers.
The Tuition Waiver Committee will make all decisions concerning the
disbursement of waiver funds. Members of the Tuition Waiver
Committee are the Artistic Director/Conductor and the AIMS/AYC Chief
Financial Officer. To protect the confidentiality of the
applicants, only the Committee and the AYC Administrator will know who
requests or receives financial assistance. All decisions of the
committee are final.
College Scholarship. When the
budget permits, AIMS/AYC awards a scholarship to one or more qualified
high school seniors. The purpose of the scholarship is to
encourage young artists to continue their music education and
performance training after graduation. The minimum qualifications
for the scholarship are:
A minimum of
four years participating as a young artist in any of the AIMS/AYC
choirs, of which two years are prior to and contiguous with high school
graduation.
Documented
acceptance and enrollment in an accredited college music education
degree program, performance-training program, or approved equal.
The scholarship
selection process is managed by a committee of the AIMS/AYC Board of
Directors. Scholarship applications are solicited by a written
announcement during the first week of February. Applications are
received and reviewed by the committee in March, and the Board of
Directors meets in early April to receive the recommendations of the
committee and make a final determination of scholarship recipients.
If the budget
permits, young artists who demonstrate successful continuation of their
qualifying education can continue to receive scholarship funds annually.
Delinquent Payment Policy. The
great majority of AYC families fulfill their financial commitments to
AYC without incident, according to the terms of the Enrollment
Contract. AYC makes every effort to be good stewards of the money
collected. Operating under an annual budget which is prepared
based on the expected enrollment for the coming season, AYC relies
heavily on the timely payment of all amounts due in order to meet the
financial commitments to the staff and vendors. Unfortunately,
for a variety of reasons, a few families fail to pay their bills,
making it necessary to establish a consistent policy for dealing with
delinquent payments.
Tuition payments
postmarked or hand-delivered to AYC more than ten (10) days after their
respective due dates will be considered late, and a late payment fee of
$10.00 will be assessed.
In the event
that any payments due to AYC under the Enrollment Contract are in
arrears by more than two (2) months, you will be required to
immediately pay AYC the outstanding balance in arrears, plus all other
financial obligations listed in the Enrollment Contract, including all
remaining tuition payments for the entire Season, all applicable late
payment fees, Patron/Ad campaign obligations, and ticket charges, in
full, in order for your child to be allowed to continue to participate
as a young artist. In this event, a full-payment request will be
sent to you via certified mail.
If your child
attends an AYC rehearsal after a full payment request has been made,
you will be contacted by the AYC office and asked to pick your child up
from the rehearsal. When your child is picked up, you will be
given a copy of the full payment request. If your child provides
his or her own transportation, he or she will be asked to return home,
you will be called by the AYC office to advise you of the situation,
and a copy of the full payment request will be mailed to you.
If you are
facing a financial hardship, please contact Whit Matteson, AYC
Executive Director, as soon as possible, to discuss a payment
plan. If you have any questions about your account or the amounts
due, please contact Julie Kolacki, AYC Administrator.
Post-Dated Check Policy. AYC
does not accept postdated checks.
Non-Sufficient Funds (NSF) Policy.
There will be a fee for returned checks in the amount of any bank fee
charged to AYC. After an NSF check is returned, all future
payments must be in cash or by money order.
Contract
Termination. In accordance with your Enrollment Contract,
and in the event of either termination or release from the Contract,
you must pay, in full, the remaining tuition balance, and all other
amounts due, within thirty (30) days of such termination or release.
Ticket Sales. As stated in the
Enrollment Contract on Page 2, “Additional Financial Requirements”,
each family is responsible for selling a minimum of four (4) tickets
per principal concert (2 per Season - Tidings & Tapestries and
Sweets & Song) at a cost of $5.00 per ticket for a total of $20.00
per family per principal concert. Complimentary Family Tickets
will be distributed at the time of purchase of the required four (4)
tickets per principal concert. (The four (4) required-sale
tickets must be purchased up front; families typically recover their
cost by selling the tickets.)
Patron/Ad Campaign. AYC requires
each family to participate in fund raising. Fund raising allows
for the total health of the organization. We cannot operate an
excellent organization without each family's help. Each family is
required to obtain a minimum of $150.00 in patronage or advertisements
for the annual Concert Season Program as specified in the Singer’s
Enrollment Contract, Page 2, “Additional Financial Requirements”. See
Handbook calendar for the due date for submitting all Patron/Ad
Campaign forms and monies.
Fund
Raising
Official
Fund Raising.
All AIMS/AYC fund raising activities must
be approved in advance by the Board of Directors, or by an officer or
committee of the Board to whom the responsibility to approve fund
raising activities has been specifically delegated. Only
approved fund raising events may solicit or collect charitable
contributions to AIMS/AYC, or use the AYC logo in any signage displayed
at the event. Only approved fund raising events may be presented
as being sponsored by, affiliated with, approved by, held for the
benefit of, sanctioned by, or in any other way formally associated with
AIMS/AYC.
It is the policy
of AIMS/AYC that "the Corporation will not participate in any
fund-raising program whereby there is a direct benefit to a student or
parent who raises the funds, including fund-raising activities where
students or parents will receive a credit or points for their
fund-raising participation which may be used to offset organizational
paid expenses for their own benefit."
The Board of
Directors has expressed its general intent to disapprove fund raising
proposals which:
- significantly benefit the organizer;
- benefit only a small group of singers;
- do not represent an efficient investment of
AIMS/AYC resources.
Non-Official
Fund Raising.
Raising money for personal
expenses. Families may raise money privately to help pay
their own AIMS/AYC expenses. However, no individual, including
children and parents, may raise funds using any of the Corporate names
(including "AIMS", "Atlanta Institute for Musicianship and Singing",
"AYC", "Atlanta Youth Choir") in a way that suggests or implies that
the fund raising event is an AIMS/AYC event or is sponsored by or held
for the benefit of AIMS/AYC, or that any of the funds raised are
charitable contributions to AIMS/AYC. The AYC logo must not be
used.
Allowed wording:
"I'm raising
money to pay my travel expenses to Disney with the Atlanta Youth Choir."
Prohibited
wording:
"I'm raising
money to help AYC travel to Disney."
Raising money to contribute to AYC.
Individuals are free to organize events (e.g. Tupperware
parties, bake sales, catalog sales) and may state that they will be
donating some part of their own income generated by the event to
AIMS/AYC. However, there must be no suggestion that the participants in the event are
making donations to AIMS/AYC or that any part of their spending
constitutes a charitable contribution to AIMS/AYC. There must be
no suggestion that the event is in any way an AIMS/AYC event or is
sponsored or organized by AIMS/AYC. The AYC logo must not be used.
Allowed wording:
"I'm selling
items from my company's catalog, and I will be donating 10% of my
profits to the Atlanta Youth Choir."
Prohibited
wording:
"5% of what you
pay today will be a charitable contribution to AYC."
General Travel Payment Policy.
When travel opportunities arise, travel details, including a payment
schedule, are made available well in advance of travel. WITH NO EXCEPTIONS, all travel
expenses must be paid in full prior
to departure, according to the trip’s payment schedule.
Rehearsal
Information
The weekly
rehearsal schedule is as follows (unless stated differently on the
calendar in this Handbook):
Monday
Evening Rehearsal Schedule.
6:30pm |
Camerata (9-12) SATB rehearsal
begins |
7:30pm |
Camerata rehearsal ends/
Fraterna Musica (FM) rehearsal begins |
9:00pm |
Fraterna Musica (FM) rehearsal
ends |
Tuesday
Rehearsal Schedule.
4:00pm |
Cantemus (9-12) rehearsal begins |
4:30pm |
Cantori (2-5) rehearsal begins |
5:15pm |
Cantabile (6-8) begins joint
rehearsal with Cantemus and/or Cantori |
6:00pm |
Fellowship Center: All choirs
have a 15 minute break |
6:15pm |
Cantemus and Cantori rehearsals
end/Cantabile rehearsal resumes |
7:15pm |
Cantabile rehearsal ends
|
Rehearsal Cancellations. If
Gwinnett County schools are canceled due to inclement weather, AYC
Regular Rehearsals are also canceled.
If bad weather causes school to be canceled or dismissed early, public
announcements will be made on local and metro-Atlanta radio and
television stations. Cancellations are usually announced shortly
after 6:00a.m.
Rehearsal Procedure. In order
to consistently provide the most effective rehearsal atmosphere,
singers will follow the Rehearsal Procedure as outlined:
Young artists
may arrive, and the Interlude Room will be open, 15 minutes before
rehearsal begins. Rehearsals will begin promptly at the designated
times.
Cantemus (9-12)
young artists should be in their seats by 4:00pm.
Cantori (2-5)
young artists should be in their seats by 4:30pm.
Cantabile (6-8)
young artists will wait in the Fellowship Center if they arrive before
5:15pm. Singers may bring homework or a book to read while they
wait - singers must remain quiet at all times in the waiting area.
Upon arrival,
young artists check-in and collect their name tags, deposit belongings
in the designated area, attend to bathroom / water needs and proceed to
the rehearsal area. (There will be no wandering around.)
Young artists may have bottles containing water only at their seats – bathroom
breaks during rehearsal will be only for emergencies.
All young
artists are expected to abide by the Conduct Agreement at all times
during rehearsals and all performance events. (Please see
“Conduct” below.)
Occasionally,
snacks are served at rehearsals. Parents of young artists with
food allergies are encouraged to provide their young artists’ snack.
Attendance. AYC young artists
must demonstrate strong commitment to the choir by faithful and
punctual attendance for the entire length of all scheduled rehearsals
and performances. Only three (3) rehearsal absences per semester
will be allowed. (Please consult policy on “Tardiness/Early Dismissal,
Page 12”) These absences should occur only for situations such as
illness, CUMULATIVE school concerts, or major cumulative church or
athletic events. If a fourth
absence should occur, the Conductor will meet with the young artist and
parents to discuss his or her continued participation in upcoming
concert engagements.
Chronic absences
will result in dismissal from the choir. (See “Contract Termination”.)
Performances
provide the young artists with an opportunity to demonstrate their
musical growth and proficiency. Dress rehearsals immediately preceding
major performances are mandatory
and are indicated with an asterisk on the calendar. If a young
artist is unable to attend a rehearsal, performance, or concert because
of illness or a family emergency, a phone call (770.982.0549) from the
parent is required stating the reason for the absence. This call
should be made prior to the start
of the rehearsal or concert. If a parent knows in advance of a
conflict (e.g. school concert) the Conductor should be notified in
writing two weeks prior to the
rehearsal or concert in question. Pre-Arranged Absence forms are
available at the check-in desk and in the Interlude Room. Absence from a
mandatory rehearsal, performance or concert without notice may be
grounds for dismissal from the choir.
Tardiness/Early
Dismissal. If a young artist is late to rehearsal, he or
she will be asked to sign in stating the reason. If
excessive tardiness occurs, the parents will be contacted. If it
is absolutely necessary for a singer to leave rehearsal early, a parent
must come
in and sign the young artist out. This policy is in place for the safety and
protection of your singer. A reason for early dismissal
must be in writing on the sign out sheet. Young artists who drive
themselves must bring a signed note from a parent if tardy or leaving
early. Each
Tardy/Early Dismissal counts for 1/3 of an absence. (In other
words, any combination of 3 Tardies or Early Dismissals equals 1
absence.)
Do I Stay or Do I Go.
Parents often ask if they should bring their young artist to rehearsal
even if he or she is sick. If a young artist has a contagious illness,
is running a fever, is too tired and sick to concentrate, and/or has a
serious upper respiratory illness, it is probably best for him or her
to stay home. If a young artist is no longer contagious, has
regained energy, and would benefit from listening to instruction, and
taking notes on his or her music, even if he or she cannot sing, then
it is probably best to attend rehearsal.
Conduct. Young artists and
parents are required to sign a Conduct Agreement of behavioral
expectations with their Enrollment Contract. These signatures
indicate both the young artist’s and parent’s understanding of and
commitment to the goals of AYC. If a discipline problem arises,
the Conductor will first talk to the young artist and a written report
may be sent home. If there is a second occurrence, the Conductor
will call the parents to alert them of the infraction. If there
is a third occurrence, dismissal from the choir will be at the
Conductor’s discretion. If the choir is traveling at the time of
the infraction, a parent will be contacted immediately to arrange
transportation home for their young artist at the parent’s
expense. Continued enrollment and future travel for this young
artist will be in jeopardy.
Personal Practice. Music is
sung from memory. Typically, rehearsal CD’s are distributed at
the beginning of the Concert Season. Music folders are to be
taken home each week for review and practice. Daily practice at home is expected.
Each young artist should expect to spend a minimum of 2 hours each week
reviewing his or her music. Knowing the music well enough to sing his
or her part alone for the Conductor should be the goal of each young
artist. Parents are expected to help singers memorize their music
by working with them and encouraging listening to their practice
CD. If it becomes apparent that a young artist does not know his
or her music, participation in concert performances will be at the
discretion of the Conductor.
Music/Music Folders. Each
young artist is issued a music folder. Additional music is assigned as
the year progresses. All folders and music must be returned as
directed. Fines will be assessed for lost or damaged music and
folders. As stated in the Enrollment Contract, if your young
artist’s music folder is not returned at the end of the season or at
the Termination of your Contract, an additional fee of $50.00 will be
assessed.
Handling
and Care of Music
- Always
bring your music to all rehearsals.
- Always
keep your music in the folder unless asked to remove a specific
piece/pieces by the Conductor.
- Never roll
or fold your music.
- Do not put
your music where it might be stepped on or soiled.
- Only mark
on your music lightly
and in pencil.
- Do NOT write your
name on your music or folder.
- If, for
any reason, a piece of music is in need of repair or missing from your
folder, please bring it to the attention of the rehearsal monitor or
the Music Librarian.
Facility Use – Westminster Presbyterian
Church (WPC). AYC is a guest in the WPC facility; specific
rooms are reserved for our use. To help preserve our valued
relationship, we ask that you please address any facility concerns to
the AYC Executive Director or the AYC Administrator, not to the WPC
office or WPC staff. A Map of Westminster Presbyterian Church is
available at the AYC website.
Once young
artists arrive on WPC property, they are to immediately check-in,
attend to bathroom / water needs and proceed to the rehearsal
area. All non-AYC children must
be supervised by an adult at all times.
For
the safety of all, please do not park or idle your car on the drive
between the two buildings.
Performance
Information
Performance Requirements.
Performances require excellence in musicianship, appearance, and
conduct. Therefore, each young artist will:
- Arrive on
time, properly dressed, groomed and ready to warm up wearing the
correct uniform.
- Know the
music! Each young artist must have a confident command of the
concert repertoire.
- ALWAYS eat
a well-balanced meal and get plenty of rest before a concert
performance.
- Avoid milk
products or carbonated beverages 3 to 4 hours prior to a performance.
- Always
let the chaperones know if you are feeling ill. If you begin to
feel ill during a performance, either quietly sit until comfortable
enough to stand again, or quietly exit behind the choir.
Chaperones will be watching and will assist you.
- Conduct
yourself at all times in a calm, polite and professional manner.
- Avoid
drawing attention to yourself by trying to communicate with your
parent(s) or other audience members.
- Give your
full attention to the Conductor while you are performing. Your eyes should always be on the
Conductor. Resist the temptation to let your eyes wander
around the building or look around the audience to find people you know.
- Never chew
gum, eat candy, food or drinks in the performance area either before or
during a concert.
- Remember
that after a concert, you still represent AYC and you are not to remove
your uniform items, e.g., blazers, tie, shoes, until you leave the
venue. Shirts must also remain tucked in.
Performance Appearance. A
well-groomed chorus is essential for a truly professional and artistic
presentation.
Hair
- Clean,
combed hair is expected of each young artist whenever performing.
- Hair
must be a natural looking color. Young artists who dye their hair
an
unusual shade (pink, blue, etc.) will not be allowed to perform.
- Girl’s
hair must be completely pulled back and off of the face. No messy
or half ponytails.
- No hair is
to rest on shoulders.
- Only black accessories may be used in
hair.
- No bows,
ribbons, or yarn in hair.
- Boys must
have a neat haircut.
Personal
Grooming
- Good
personal grooming is a must
for all young artists.
- Please
adhere to common grooming practices, (i.e., deodorant, if necessary,
clean teeth, and neat, clean nails.)
Accessories
- Only clear
nail polish is allowed.
- No
jewelry, with the exception of SMALL stud earrings worn only in earlobes, (e.g.
pearls, diamonds, gold.) Absolutely no hoops or dangling earrings
of any kind.
- Absolutely
no perfume.
- Make-up
may be worn if sparingly applied and non-sparkly.
There will be no exceptions to the dress code. A young artist who fails to dress
or groom properly will not be allowed to participate in the performance.
Concert
Uniforms.
Formal
Uniform
Purchased from our uniform
vendor (Buckhead Uniforms):
White oxford shirt (boys) or White turtleneck
shirt (girls)
Black skirt (girls)
Royal Park opaque black nylon tights
(girls)
Black pleated pants
Hunter green blazer
Purchased from AYC:
Necktie (boys)
Purchased on own:
Black belt – Solid color with either black or
inconspicuous metal buckle.
No ornamentation on belt
Belt may be found in boys
department
Black socks/ knee
highs
Black shoes (Must be a flat or low heel dress
shoe that covers toes and heels.)
Please
make sure
the shoe is a comfortable fit, as your singer will be standing for long
periods of time.
Singers will not
be allowed to perform in sneakers, sandals or boots.
Informal
Uniform
Purchased from AYC:
Grey sweatshirt and Green polo shirt
(In performance, the AYC polo shirt will be
worn with the black pants.)
Recommended Purchase from AYC:
Green t-shirt
(The t-shirt is a good option in certain
weather, but not required)
At times, the
AYC polo shirt or t-shirts will be worn with dark dress blue jeans or
modest dress shorts (no holes, wear patterns, big flare, etc.)
AYC FORMAL
UNIFORM VENDOR
Buckhead Uniforms
6311 Roswell Road
Atlanta, GA 30328
404.303.8600
M-Thur.: 10am-6pm
Fri-Sat: 10am-5pm
|
~
or ~ |
Buckhead
Uniforms
3700-B Satellite Boulevard
Duluth, GA 30096
770.495.7274
M-Sat: 10am-5pm
|
Directions to
Buckhead Uniforms,
Satellite Boulevard location:
Take I-85 South to Pleasant Hill Road (Exit 104). Turn right on
Pleasant Hill Road. At the 4th traffic light, turn left on Satellite
Boulevard. Go 3/10 of a mile and turn left at the BUCKHEAD UNIFORM sign
(next to Georgia Backyard).
Roswell Road location: Take I-85
South to the I-285 West Bypass (Chattanooga / Birmingham) exit (Exit
95A). Travel I-285 West approximately 7½ miles, and exit Roswell
Road/Sandy Springs (Exit 25). Turn right on Roswell Road, and go 1 mile
to the Sandy Springs Plaza Shopping Center, which is on your
right. Buckhead Uniforms is located in the corner of the shopping
center.
Performance Dismissal Procedure.
For the safety of our young artists, and to maintain decorum at
performance venues, young artists will reconvene in an assigned space
at the conclusion of the performance. Parents will then sign out their
young artists from the responsible chaperone, at the assigned
location.
Volunteer
Opportunities
AYC Parent Association (AYCPA).
Every parent is automatically a member of the AYCPA. In order to
achieve the goals of AYC’s mission statement, many non-musical tasks
are handled by our dedicated volunteer parents, either through a role
on the Leadership Committee or by signing up for occasional help with a
variety of tasks and events. Be sure to regularly check for
sign-up sheets in the Interlude Room as events come up. You are
also invited to call or email the AYC Office. There is a place
for every parent who desires to become more involved in AYC’s
operational details – we welcome and need your participation.
AYCPA Leadership Committee.
The Leadership Committee is a group of parent volunteers who have
agreed to assume responsibility for specific areas of service.
Many of these leadership positions require attendance at the monthly
meetings with members of the Staff. Some of the positions are
ongoing for the entire year and some are to coordinate large one-time
events or projects. Positions are generally filled beginning in
the spring for the following year based on the interest indicated to
the Parent Volunteer Coordinator. Please see the AYC Directory
for the list of the Leadership Committee Members.
Description
of Volunteer Opportunities.
Archivist.
Collects copies of all emails, the “AYC Weekly”, Newsletters, flyers
and other pertinent paperwork pertaining to particular AYC events;
compiles into binders.
Auditions Coordinator.
Returns all phone calls of interest regarding enrollment in AYC.
Clearly describes AYC and the time and financial commitments that come
with enrollment in AYC to interested callers. Works closely with
Conductor to establish audition dates. Schedules and attends
auditions. Accompanies potential young artists to AYC office for
actual audition with Conductor. Answers parent and singer
questions at time of audition.
AYC Gear Coordinator.
Maintains contact with vendors of AYC gear and informal uniform
items. Processes and distributes orders.
AYC Gear Helpers.
Assists Gear Coordinator with taking orders, fitting, distributing
orders, etc.
Birthday Treat
Purchases. Purchase the monthly treats served to the young
artists in celebration of birthdays for that particular month
(typically, parents volunteer to provide treats when it is their young
artist’s birthday month). Birthday treats are donated by the
purchaser(s), and will not be reimbursed by AYC.
Chaperone Coordinator.
Assists in the recruitment and training of chaperones for AYC for the
entire season. Responsible for coordination of chaperones for all
AYC concerts, trips and events. Makes sure that the grooming
supplies are available at each occasion. Distributes young artist
lists to chaperones and assist with any questions or problems with
regard to chaperoning. Assists if necessary to arrange for substitute
chaperones if the assigned chaperones are unable to attend a particular
event.
Concert Chaperone.
Two permanent chaperones are assigned to each of the 4 vocal groups of
young artists. In addition, there will be one substitute for each
of the groups. The chaperones attend all local concerts and
events. The chaperones are given a list of their young artists
and check attendance, assess uniform compliance and needs, and are
responsible for their group of young artists, from the appointed
call-time until released to the parents. Chaperones keep records
of tardiness, uniform concerns and discipline problems, if
necessary. Chaperones also assist young artists with grooming,
locating restrooms, water/snacks, illness, or whatever the young
artists may need during an event.
Concert
Programs/Tickets. Arrives at concert venue 30 minutes
prior to the concert to greet guests, collect tickets and distribute
concert programs.
Concert Usher.
Assists in seating audience members. Provides helpful information
to audience members such as where the nearest restrooms, water
fountains, and exits are located. Politely and discretely handles
distracting situations during a concert.
Hospitality
Coordinators. Determines event personnel; organizes the
specific food and paper goods needed for AYC events (e.g. Day Camp,
monthly Birthdays, Lock-in, Picnic, Christmas Party, Tidings &
Tapestries Concerts, Mid-Year Parent Meeting, Spring into Song
Concerts, Interlude Snacks). Coordinates and supervises the
assigned helpers with set-up, serving and clean up.
Hospitality Committee.
Volunteers who assist with the organization, serving and clean-up at
AYC events including Day Camp, monthly Birthdays, Lock-In, Picnic,
Christmas Party, Potluck Dinner, Tidings & Tapestries Concerts,
Mid-Year Parent Meeting, Spring into Song Concerts, and others.
Interlude Coordinators.
Sets up Interlude Room. Facilitates dissemination of information
to parents on a weekly basis, (e.g. the “AYC Weekly”, sign-up sheets,
payment forms, flyers, etc.) Available to answer questions,
provide assistance, provide receipts, etc. Also, assists other
volunteers with projects such as Gear orders and delivery, Nutcracker
sign-ups, tickets sales, etc. Sets up coffee,
refreshments. Cleans up and removes AYC items and places them in
the AYC Office.
Interlude Room
Refreshments. Provides refreshments to the Interlude Room
for parent enjoyment during rehearsals. One parent per week is
needed for bringing these refreshments. (Cake, cookies, brownies,
pretzels, snack mix, etc.) Coordination for this is done by the
Hospitality Coordinators.
Librarian.
Works with Administrator to place new music orders. Receives,
numbers, and files new music. Prepares music folders for young
artists. Assists young artists who need music in rehearsal.
Maintains records of music library resources.
Newsletter Editor.
Assembles the “AYC Weekly” and the monthly newsletter, “The Score”.
Nutcracker Coordinator.
Organizes and maintains the young artist sign-up sheets for this
month-long event. Distributes information to families regarding
Nutcracker performances.
Parent Volunteer
Coordinator. Works with all the AYCPA to coordinate
volunteers for the needs of AYC/AM/FM events, activities.
Solicits volunteers for Leadership Committee. Works with each
Coordinator of the Leadership Committee to provide assistance when
needed. Works with AYC Staff to determine needs for
volunteers.
Public
Relations/Ticketing Manager. Public Relations volunteer
submits information for Metro Atlanta newspapers and publications
announcing upcoming concerts and audition information at appropriate
times. Contacts AYC patrons and advertisers about upcoming
concerts. Handles other Public Relations-related tasks as
needed. Ticket Manager handles distribution of,
instructions for, and tracking of, tickets for all ticketed events.
Rehearsal Check-In
Coordinator. Coordinates all volunteers for turns at the
AYC Check-In Desk. Works with the Executive Director to review
current procedures and safety issues.
Rehearsal Check-In.
Maintains weekly attendance records at the young artist Check-In Desk
by (1) indicating on the provided Attendance Form the arrival of each
young artist; (2) indicating whether or not the young artist has
brought his/her music folder to rehearsal; (3) applies young artist’s
name tag before young artist enters the rehearsal area; and (4) records
late arrival and early dismissals. The check-in desk must be
staffed continuously, starting at least 15 minutes before the earliest
rehearsal begins, until the latest rehearsal ends. The Check-In
Coordinator will work with volunteers to establish a schedule and
provide detailed instructions.
Rehearsal Monitoring.
Monitors the young artists during the rehearsal time. Assists
Conductors by addressing any behavior issues, restroom breaks, music
needs, illness, etc. Keeps written records of any concerns
arising from that particular rehearsal. One monitor is needed
during the first part of the Cantori rehearsal, from 4:30pm until
6:00pm and a second is needed for the combined rehearsal time from
5:15pm until 6:00pm. Written instructions will be provided in the
Rehearsal Monitor Folder issued at arrival time.
Rehearsal Monitor
Coordinator. Coordinates all volunteers for turns as Rehearsal
Monitors. Works with the Executive Director to review current
procedures and needs for updates.
Used Uniform Manager.
Works with Choir Administrator in setting up annual Used Uniform
Sale. Collects used uniform items. Maintains the Used
Uniform inventory. Collects payment for used items sold.
Used Uniform Helpers.
Assists at Used Uniform Sale.