Seventh grade chorus (a one-semester class) and eighth grade chorus (an all-year class) are intended for students interested in developing their voices by being part of an artistic ensemble and learning more about the elements of music.
Goals of the course include the experience of making music in an ensemble, developing vocal technique, building sight-singing skills, gaining a basic understanding of music theory and vocabulary and developing an appreciation for the many styles of music. Students work on vocal relaxation, technique and stamina through warm-ups, and practice their skills by learning three-part repertoire from a variety of musical genres.
Students perform at a school assembly and an evening concert near the end of each semester, with the opportunity for an additional performance outside of school; in recent years, students have performed in the community at venues such as retirement homes, the Durham Bulls Athletic Park, and Duke women's basketball games. Repertoire may include contemporary, jazz, classical, popular, folk, seasonal and musical theater genres.