Performing Arts Concert Choir Prerequisite: None. Open to students in Grades 9 – 12. May be repeated for credit. Concert Choir is a non-auditioned, mixed ensemble open to students in Grades 9 – 12. Concert Choir studies and performs choral literature from a variety of time periods and musical genres. Each student also works to develop their vocal technique and sight singing skills, as well as an understanding of music theory and terminology. Students are required to sing at school-sponsored events, including but not limited to: two concerts, Lessons and Carols, and Chapel.
Saints Chorale* Prerequisite: Performance audition required. Open to students in Grades 10 – 12. May be repeated for credit. Saints Chorale is a mixed ensemble open to students in Grades 10 – 12. Auditions occur in the spring of the preceding school year before enrollment in the course. Students study and perform high-level choral literature from a variety of time periods and musical genres. Members of Saints Chorale master a variety of skills including sight singing, tonal memory, composition and solo performance. Students are required to sing in multiple performances, including but not limited to: two school concerts, Convocation, Lessons and Carols, Chapel, and events in the Charlottesville community.
22 St. Anne’s-Belfield School
Philharmonic Strings Prerequisite: Performance equivalent of at least two years of study or permission of the instructor. Open to Grades 9 – 12 violin, viola, cello, and bass players. May be repeated for credit. The Philharmonic Strings study and perform a variety of repertoire including baroque, classical, romantic, contemporary classical, folk, jazz, and music of the stage and screen. Students advance their technical facility and ensemble skills through in-depth study of scales, tone production, and stylistic performance practices. The Philharmonic Strings perform an average of four concerts during the year, and compete in local competitions and festivals. In addition to rehearsing ensemble pieces, there is ample opportunity for students to study solo and chamber music under the direction of the orchestra conductor and visiting faculty.
Counterpoints* Prerequisite: Performance audition required. Open to string players in Grades 9 – 12. May be repeated for credit. Counterpoints is a course for advanced level string players. The ensemble studies and performs standard string orchestra repertoire and progressive jazz music. All members play as part of the Philharmonic Strings and are also required to work on solo and small group pieces. Counterpoints musicians perform and travel often throughout the year, representing the School at local, state, and regional music festivals and competitions.
