Breakdown of the OHHS Vocal Music Department

March 2, 2010 • Lauren Johnson  
Filed under Student Life

Most people think that the choir at Oxon Hill High School is just singing and not much else.

But actually, it is a complex, but well-organized vocal music department.

Doing so much more than just singing, the learning process is different than any other class and requires more time. It consists of 7:30A.M. morning rehearsals, classes, sectionals, adjudication, and engagements.

Each section has two section leaders to help with the further understanding of music, such as learning notes and sight reading.

Rehearsals are like any other practice, but because most of the choir members are in other activities, so the best time for rehearsals are in the morning. In morning rehearsals, the choir runs outside or does an exercise tape to get the diaphragm working; then they move on to vocal techniques to warm up. Once they finish, they work on any problems they have on others songs or go through the songs for their next engagement.

During class is when choir members work on sight reading and new music.

In sectionals, one section works on problems they have as a section, rather than issues of the whole choir. Sectionals are held once a week for each section.

Adjudication is state-wide and is required by the county.

Engagements, or performances, are a very important part of their grade.

All these parts add up and prove that the Oxon Hill Vocal Music Department is more than just singing.

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