2014/15 Praise Ensembles New Family Planner

Welcome to your planning guide for the 2014/15 Praise Ensembles year! We are excited that you are considering making us a part of your fine arts curriculum. Praise Ensembles has a record of excellence in the homeschool community and we are always excited to begin planning for a new year. We have added even more new classes this year and feel it will be our best year yet. Included in this packet you will find our tentative class schedule, class descriptions, and information on how to register for our program. We seek out instructors in the community to provide your students with the best fine arts education around, at a fraction of the cost of semi­private or private lessons. In exchange, you provide a supportive role in our program by helping behind the scenes to keep things running smoothly. We are a non­profit organization, operating within the guidelines of the 501(c)3 tax code. We are run by a volunteer board consisting of parents who have elected to provide a home education for their children. We look forward to working with you and welcoming you as a part of Praise Ensembles.

Your 2014­15 Praise Board of Directors Charlotte Shopmeyer, Chairperson

Melissa Edwards, Secretary Bobbie Anderson, Treasurer & Registration Processing

Katie Orth, Communications & Student Council Facilitator Laura Devaisher, Amy Page, Jamie Jones, Jenny Johnston

9­9:50 High School Spanish 2

SP4

Intro to Art (5­7yrs) CLASS FULL AT1

Music Theory 2 11&up BAO*

MT2

Elementary Commun. Skills 3rd­5th grade CO1

Concert Choir

12&up BAO*

VO2

Beginning Band 9&up

BD1

Commercial Art Design 12&up

CLASS FULL AT6

10­10:50 Middle School

Spanish 2

SP3

3D Art 8&up CLASS FULL AT2

Music Theory 1 8&up

OPEN TO Band Students only

MT1

High School Speech

CO3

Prep Choir 8&up

VO1

Guitar 3 BAO*

GT3

Intro to Violin 5­8yrs

CLASS FULL

ST1

11­11:50 Beginning Spanish 11&up

SP2

Advanced Painting 11&up BAO* AT5

Rhythm & Rhyme 5­7yrs

CLASS FULL RR2

Praise & Worship Ensemble BAO* 13&up

PW1

Elementary Spanish 3rd­5th

SP1

Intermediate Strings BAO*

ST3

12­12:50 Middle School Speech

CLASS FULL CO2

Advanced 3D Art 11&up

AT4

Guitar 2 BAO*

Previously Assessed

Students Only GT2

Intro. to Drama 9&up

DR1

Handbell Choir 6­12yrs

CLASS FULL HB1

Concert Band BAO*

BD2

Strings Ensemble BAO*

ST4

1­1:50 Photography 11& up

CLASS FULL

PH1

3D Art 8&up CLASS FULL AT3

Guitar 1 10&up

GT1

Drama 10&up

DR2

Chamber Choir BAO*

VO3

Beginning Strings 8&up

ST2

2­2:50

3­3:50

Advanced Drama

13&up BAO* Counts as 2 class hours

DR3

*BAO = By Assessment or Instructor Approval only Prerequisite needed (see class description) Note: We are considering an option for a 4 y/o organized sibling activity during the 11:00 &/or 12:00 hours­­

further details will be available over the summer.

New Instructor Welcome

Mr. Keith Vincent

(Guitar 3, Beginning Band, Concert Band, Praise & Worship Ensemble) We would like to officially welcome and introduce Mr. Keith Vincent to our talented team of musical artists. Mr. Vincent has a well known reputation in the world of music education and music ministry. He was the recipient of numerous state and district High School Teacher of the Year awards during his professional

career.

In addition to teaching students and running a successful music studio, he has dedicated himself to serving as a praise and worship leader at an area church. Participating in as many as 100 performances per year, it

is safe to say his music has been far reaching and enjoyed by many.

Mr. Vincent has a passion for children of all ages and loves helping them find their love of music. Originally trained as a classical guitarist, he went on to develop the ability to play every band instrument available. He is a graduate of Western Kentucky University with a Masters of Arts Education degree. After decades of experience, he is enjoying his first year as a retiree and is excited about opportunities that allow him to continue to grow professionally, spiritually, creatively, and physically. We feel like Praise Ensembles will allow him to continue many of these goals and we are so excited to be able to share his gifts with our

children. _______________________________________________

We meet on Fridays at Crossroads Christian Church.

Our tentative 2014/15 calendar can be found on the last page of this packet.

Class Information & Description Important note before reviewing class descriptions: Classes are available for ages 5 & up. However, we ask that parents read class descriptions thoroughly and evaluate whether your child has the developmental skills needed for that particular class. While we love having the opportunity to extend this program to a large number of families, we also have to be responsible to ensure that our students are receiving quality instruction in a nurturing environment. If your student is not ready for the class that you are considering, please check our schedule for additional options. It is important to note that parents will be asked to attend class with those children that need extra assistance in maintaining a level of focus that is necessary for the class. With only 50 minutes in a class period, it is important that the instructor’s time is used effectively. Please take note of class code (ex., AT1); this will be used in your registration process. Instruments will need to be provided by students but we may be able to access some loan instruments for band classes if you have a special desire/need. Parents will be given supply lists for all classes at the start of each semester. All classes operate on a full year schedule. Also, please note that some classes fill quickly. All registrations are time stamped and filled on a first come basis. We will try to notify you as soon as possible if a class you have selected is unavailable.

THEORY & MUSIC

RHYTHM & RHYME Season 2 (5­7y/o) 11:00­11:50 (RR2) CLASS FULL ­­Rhythm & Rhyme (Season 2) is open to all students ages 5­7. The students will be introduced to music theory in a gentle and natural way through games and creative rhythms. Each week we will learn about notes, their location on the

staff, division of beat and individual note value. These steps will lead up to creating our own rhythms. We will make time for special game & story days as well. Season 1 & Season 2 are independent of one another and may be taken in any order. Season 2 does have a more progressive pace. All items for class will be provided by the teacher. Although this is an active class, children who take this class should be able to sit attentively for a period of time and follow directions. Parents may be asked to assist their child in class if necessary. Class max: 8 students, Instructor: Kristin Ehmen HANDBELL CHOIR (6­12y/o) 12:00­12:50 (HB1) CLASS FULL —The Children’s Handbell Choir will learn bell­ringing techniques, working together to produce melodies and harmonies, music notation and basic theory. They will enjoy learning a variety of music including hymns, Christmas, gospel and folk. Children who take this class should be able to sit quietly for a period of time and follow directions. Parents may be asked to assist their child in class if necessary. Class max: 15 students, Instructor: Jolie Ryor MUSIC THEORY 1 (8&up) 10:00­10:50 (MT1) OPEN ONLY TO BAND STUDENTS AT THIS TIME ­­This class will cover the staff, notes, pitches, clefs, note values, time signature, dynamics, tempo, and much more. We will work on short pieces weekly using a variety of instruments including glockenspiels, hand drums, and tambourines just to name a few. All these are provided by the instructor. The students will need to purchase a soprano recorder which will not be used every week, but will be used frequently. This class does not require a textbook as students will learn through small repeated steps which will include games, songs, dramatizations, setting poetry to music, melodic improvisation and occasionally worksheets. Class max: 10 students, Instructor: Kristin Ehmen

MUSIC THEORY 2 (11&up) 9:00­9:50 (MT2) (instructor approval needed) ­­ Music Theory 2 is for students who have completed Music Theory 1 or who already have instrument experience (younger students need instructor's permission).This class will begin with a short review of note location on the staff.

From there the students will cover intervals, harmonic major and minor triads, dynamics, various tempos, meters, etc. This class will also practice melodic dictation which will begin with simple 5­note scales and lead to nurturing strong sight­reading skills. This class does not require a textbook, but will utilize games and repetition. Each game is thoroughly learned ~ and enjoyed ~ before moving on to the next. These small steps commit the concepts to memory. Class max: 10 students, Instructor: Kristin Ehmen

VOCAL ARTS

PREP CHOIR (8­12y/o) 10:00­10:50 (VO1)

­­ Choir students will be coached on developing proper vocal technique, the basic skill of reading music, and they will be given the opportunity to sing together in two­part harmony. Class max: 25 students, Instructor: Jolie Ryor

CONCERT CHOIR (12&up) 9:00­9:50 (by recommendation/audition only) (VO2)

­­ Students will continue to develop basic vocal technique and will transition to producing a tight choral sound harmonizing in three and four parts in addition to sight­singing. Class max: 25 students, Instructor: Jolie Ryor

CHAMBER CHOIR (12&up) 1:00­1:50 (by recommendation/audition only) (VO3)

­­ This advanced level student must already have the ability to read music. In Chamber Choir, emphasis is placed on ear­training, sight­singing and tight vocal harmonies. Students will sing a cappella in three and four part harmony. Class max: 10 students, Instructor: Jolie Ryor

ART & PHOTOGRAPHY INTRO TO ART (5­7y/o) 9:00­9:50 (AT1) ­­Students will learn basic art techniques and proper usage of a variety of mediums, including sculpture, paper crafting, string art, recycled art, watercolors, pastels, & oil pastels. This year, they will also be introduced to projects taken from the older 3D art classes, allowing them to have ‘hands­on’ experiences similar to the older children. Children who take this class should be able to sit quietly for a period of time and follow directions. Parents may be asked to assist their child in class if necessary. Class max: 12 students, Instructor: Jo Quintanilla

3D ART (8&up) 1:00­1:50 (AT3) ­­still open CLASSES FULL ­­Bring your imagination to life with 3 dimensional projects that will allow students to work with their hands to expose students to art through mediums such as sculpture, collage, recycled creations, jewelry, painting,

paper crafts/quilling, origami, string art, dimensional drawing, and so much more. These classes will allow maximum creative output and great motor skill development. Class max: 12 students, Instructor: Jo Quintanilla

ADVANCED 3D ART (11&up) 12:00­12:50 (AT4) ­­A step up in skill level from our 3D art class. Bring your imagination to life with 3 dimensional projects that will expose students to art through hands­on mediums such as sculpture, collage, recycled creations,

jewelry, painting, paper crafts/quilling, origami, string art, dimensional drawing, and so much more. These classes will allow maximum creative output and great motor skill development. Class max: 12 students, Instructor: Katrina Cravens

ADVANCED PAINTING (11&up) 11:00­11:50 (AT5) ­­Students who are serious about advancing their knowledge of painting will enjoy this opportunity to build upon basic painting skills and explore a range of painting techniques. Instruction will be given in the use of oil

pastels, watercolors, brush & ink and acrylics, as well as ways to combine these mediums. Students who wish to register must have some previous art experience and prior painting experience is preferred; younger students or students who are new to Praise Ensembles will require special permission to register. Class max 12 students, Instructor: Jo Quintanilla

COMMERCIAL ART DESIGN (12&up) 9­9:50 (AT6) CLASS FULL ­­Enjoy an exposure to a variety of art forms that make up the 'art of creative services' used in the commercial industry. Projects will range from logo design, illustration, graphic design, advertising, fashion

design, photography, and much more. A great opportunity to expand your abilities and explore your gifts. Class max: 12 students, Instructor: Katrina Cravens

DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY (11&up) 1:00­1:50 (PH1) CLASS FULL ­­This introductory class will expose students to the world of art through photography. Students will need to have a basic digital camera with a manual mode (standard point and shoot or SLR) for this class. Projects will

be hands on and will provide students with the skill to create well­composed, creative, unique works of art. Students will be coached in the areas of composition, camera modes & controls, light metering, exposure, white balance, focusing, and most importantly...how to love shooting images! Class max: 15 Instructor: tba

PRAISE & WORSHIP ENSEMBLE, STRINGS, GUITAR, & BAND Students will be required to provide their instrument/case, books, and any needed supplies. Supply lists will be mailed over the summer to all parents by August 1, if you have questions prior to that, please contact us. These

classes are viewed as group lessons. In order for the class to progress, a practice commitment (minimum 10­20 min. per day) on behalf of parent and student is required. This helps us maintain a high standard of instruction for your

children. INTRO TO VIOLIN (5­8y/o) 10:00­10:50 (ST1) CLASS FULL —Our youngest students will have the privilege of learning violin under the supervision of an instructor who holds a Master of Music, Suzuki Pedagogy. Miss Aryn will engage students with the world renowned Suzuki Method. Under this method students will learn the “language of music”, developing in each of them an “ear” for music and giving them a strong

foundation for performance. Class max: 10 students, Instructor: Aryn Walton

BEGINNING STRINGS (8&up) 1:00­1:50 (ST2) (violin, viola, cello) —These students will have the privilege of learning under the supervision of an instructor who holds a Master of Music, Suzuki Pedagogy. This highly qualified instructor will engage students with the world renowned Suzuki Method. Under this method students will learn the “language of music”, developing in each of them an “ear” for music and giving them a strong foundation for performance. Class max: 10 students, Instructor: Aryn Walton

INTERMEDIATE STRINGS 11:00­11:50 (ST3) (by recommendation/audition only) (violin, viola, cello, bass) —Students in this class will use a combination of conventional training and the Suzuki Method. The Suzuki Method will be implemented with the conventional method to accommodate those students who have never experienced the Method. This collaboration will elevate the students skill level and take them to a new level of appreciation for their instrument. Specifically, students will be challenged through intonation and listening skills, good hand positions, and improvement of bow techniques. Class max: 10 students, Instructor: Aryn Walton

STRINGS ENSEMBLE 12:00­12:50 (ST4) (by recommendation/audition only) (violin, viola, cello, bass) —This class is reserved for the most advanced students. In Strings Ensemble your student will hone their skills through various styles of music with increasing difficulty. Emphasis is placed on challenging rhythms, higher fingering positions, and advanced bow techniques. This class will also marry the conventional and Suzuki Method to ensure you students gets the highest level of training and instruction. Class max: 10 students, Instructor: Aryn Walton

GUITAR I (10&up) 1:00­1:50 (GT1) ­­ This beginning class is for students who are new to guitar and have little or no knowledge of music theory. We begin with basic notes, chords, and simple songs. The students will gain skills throughout the year and be able to accompany each other by the end of the spring semester! Students will need to provide their own guitar, The Complete Edition of Hal Leonard Guitar Method book, music stand, and clip on tuner. Class max: 12 students, Instructor: Kristin Ehmen GUITAR 2 (10&up) 12:00­12:50 (GT2) (by recommendation/audition only) CLOSED TO NEW STUDENTS ­­ During the year students will delve into more difficult music, chords, and theory than in beginning guitar 1. They will set goals, accompany each other and have more challenging pieces for performance. To join Guitar 2, students must have either taken Beginning Guitar 1 or been assessed by the instructor. Students will need to provide their own guitar, The Complete Edition of Hal Leonard Guitar Method book, music stand, and clip on tuner. Class max: 12 students, Instructor: Kristin Ehmen

GUITAR 3 10:00­10:50 (GT3) (by recommendation/audition only) ­­ Our most advanced level of formal guitar instruction. Students will master more difficult music, chords, and theory. They will develop individual styles and prepare to move toward our Praise & Worship Ensemble where they will begin to play with other instruments. They will set goals, accompany each other and have more challenging pieces for performance. To

join Guitar 3, students must have either completed Beginning Guitar 1&2 or been assessed by the instructor. Students will need to provide their own guitar. Class max: 12 students, Instructor: Keith Vincent

PRAISE AND WORSHIP ENSEMBLE 11:00­11:50 (by recommendation/audition only) (PW1) (advanced class: open to guitar, percussion, & keyboard) —Take your instrumental performance to the most creative level with this class. Our Praise & Worship Ensemble is for the advanced student (recommendations required from their current instructor or by assessment) who plays guitar

(electric, acoustic, bass), percussion, or keyboard, and desires to increase in the knowledge and skill of their instrument. Additionally, students will focus on how to develop and lead worship and use their skills to serve in their home churches. There will also be opportunities for special invitation vocalists at our concerts. Students will need to provide their instrument but assistance may be available if there is a special instrument need. Instructor: Keith Vincent BEGINNING BAND (9&up) 9:00­9:50 (BD1) (woodwind, brass, percussion) ­­Students will develop skills in playing individually, listening, reading, and playing in a group. Students perform their new skills during the concert(s) and will utilize ‘mini virtual recitals’ throughout the year. Students needs to have taken (or take simultaneously) Music Theory 1 if they do not have significant experience with any other instruments. If your 8 year old student has taken private lessons and you wish to continue their development, an audition and band instructorʼs discretion is required for enrollment. Students will need to provide their instrument but assistance may be available if there are exceptional needs. Instructor: Keith Vincent CONCERT BAND (10&up) 12:00­12:50 (BD2) (by recommendation/audition only) (woodwind, brass, percussion) ­­Students will develop skills in playing individually, listening, reading, and playing in a group. Students will be given direction to help raise their skill level to their highest potential in this class. Instructor will draw on individual interests and personalities to increase performance potential. Students will participate in both concerts and will be utilizing technology for ‘mini virtual recitals’. If your 8­9 year old student has taken private lessons and you wish to continue their development, an audition and band instructorʼs discretion is required for enrollment. Students will need to provide their instrument but assistance may be available if there are exceptional needs. Instructor: Keith Vincent

PERFORMING ARTS ~ DRAMA

INTRO TO DRAMA (9&up) 12:00­12:50pm (DR1) —In this class your student will learn beginning acting techniques, stage terms, basic production elements, and history. This class is a prerequisite for Drama & Adv Drama and will not be staging a production. Class max: 20 students, Instructor: Mark Gerner

DRAMA (10&up) 1:00­1:50pm (DR2) (prereq Intro to Drama; by recommendation/audition only) —In this high energy class your student will continue to work on acting techniques and progress in their skills and knowledge of the theater. Students will put on a single one­act production during the year. They are expected to provide their own costumes and make­up; and parents will be required to volunteer in various areas to help with the production. Students are required to first take Intro to Drama or have some acting experience to be in this class. Class max: 25 students, Instructor: Mark Gerner ADVANCED DRAMA (13&up) 2:00­3:50pm (DR3) (by recommendation/audition only) —Do you have a student who aspires to work in the field of Acting? Advanced Drama will teach your student advanced acting techniques, history, playwriting, directing, stage design, and producing. Students will participate in a full­scale, multi­act play presented at the end of the school year. Students are expected to provide their own costumes and make­up; and parents will be required to volunteer in various areas to help with the production. Students need to have prior acting experience and/or completed DR2 in addition to auditioning with the instructor. Class max: 25 students, Instructor: Mark Gerner

THE ART OF COMMUNICATION

ELEMENTARY COMMUNICATION SKILLS (8­11y/o) 9:00­9:50 (CO1) ­­ This course is designed to be a gentle introduction to public speaking for the upper elementary (3rd­5th grade) student. The course will offer introductory information regarding speech concepts while focusing on thinking and

listening skills. Other topics to be covered will include introductions, phone manners, and group participation skills. Students will also give 2­3 prepared short speeches a semester. Parent involvement is encouraged and recommended. Class max: 12 students, Instructor: Laura Catlin

MIDDLE SCHOOL SPEECH (11&up) 12:00­12:50 (CO2) CLASS FULL ­­ This class is a practical course designed to offer the novice middle school (6th­8th grade) speaker a number of opportunities to organize and prepare public speaking assignments. The course will offer a “laboratory setting” where the beginning speaker can stand in front of a live audience and present his/her practiced performance. Students will also learn about the role of communication in our lives including topics such as telephone manners, greetings and introductions, spatial relationships and audience or listener responsibilities. There will be class work to be done outside of class time. Class max: 12 students, Instructor: Laura Catlin

HIGH SCHOOL SPEECH (13&up) 10:00­10:50 (CO3) ­­ The primary objective of this course is to provide the high school (9th­12th grade) speaker with the knowledge to plan, perform, and evaluate twelve different speeches over two semesters. The class will focus on both presentation skills and the structure and writing of various speech types as well as learning to evaluate both personal and classmateʼs speeches. There will be significant class work to be done outside of class time. Class max: 10 students, Instructor: Laura Catlin

THE ART OF LANGUAGE ~ SPANISH

ELEMENTARY SPANISH (3rd­5th grade) 11­11:50 (SP1) ­­Geared toward upper elementary students, this course will teach students enunciation, basic vocabulary skills, and basic conversational phrases. Students will learn in a fun, interactive environment. This class is intended to introduce

students to the Spanish language and culture and give them an appreciation and interest in furthering that portion of their education. Class max: 15 students, Instructor: TBA

BEGINNING SPANISH (11&up) 11:00­11:50 (SP2) ­­ This class is for someone new to the wonderful language of Spanish. Students will be introduced to pronunciation, everyday vocabulary, definite and indefinite articles, nouns, verbs, adjective agreement, and common time and number

usage. Class max: 15 students, Instructor: Doug Fenner

MIDDLE SCHOOL SPANISH 2 (11&up) 10:00­10:50 (SP3) ­­ This class requires that the student has successfully completed Middle School Spanish 1 (or something comparable) and will further their knowledge of pronunciation, everyday vocabulary, definite and indefinite articles, demonstrative adjectives, irregular verbs in the present tense, and reading. Class max: 15 students, Instructor: Doug Fenner

HIGH SCHOOL SPANISH 2 (14&up) 9:00­9:50 (SP4) ­­ This class requires that the student has successfully completed High School Spanish 1 (or something comparable) and will further their knowledge of common vocabulary, demonstrative and possessive adjectives, negative expressions, interrogative expressions, pronouns, reflexive and irregular verbs, and reading. Class max: 15 students, Instructor: Doug Fenner

Family Planning Sheet

This form is for your planning purposes only. Actual registration forms will be completed online.

Student Name 9­9:50 (class code)

10­10:50 (class code)

11­11:50 (class code)

12­12:50 (class code)

1­1:50 (class code)

2­3:50 DR3 only x2 hrs

Total Hrs Tuition

Total Tuition Plus Reg Fee of $30 or $60

Tuition & Fees Supply lists will be provided prior to the start of each semester.

Tuition (per student) 1­2 Class hours = $200

3­4 Class hours = $250

5+ Class hours = $300

Please note DR3 counts as 2 class hours when calculating tuition.

Family Registration Fee $30 prior to 6/10/14; $60 after this date. (In addition to tuition)

How to enroll: Several classes are full. If you would like to be placed on the waitlist, please include the class in your registration selections but NOT in your tuition. We will adjust totals if a spot opens.

1. Complete your Family Commitment Form. This will inform you of your responsibilities and commitments as a part of our organization.

2. Complete Student Registration Form for EACH student enrolling in Praise Ensembles.

3. You will receive a confirmation and an invoice once your registration forms are received and processed, you may pay your family registration fee (and tuition if you choose) online at that time; or you may mail it to the address shown on the invoice. Your $30 registration fee payment must be received within 5 business days in order to hold your classes.

Registration Dates: New families will be able to access a form with active registration links on May 1, at 8:00 am, through our Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/PraiseEnsembles and our page on the www.SWIHE.org site.

Feel free to contact us at PraiseEnsembles@gmail.com with general registration questions and PraiseTreasurer@gmail.com for financial matters.

2014­2015 PARENT CALENDAR Parents: Please take note of the following dates and important information. All classes are on a full year schedule.

Keep this page for your records. April 2014 4/1 at 8:00 am ­ Current Family priority registration begins May 2014 5/1 ­ Open Registration Begins forms accessible via our Facebook page and on SWIHE page

June 2014 6/10 ­ Early Enrollment ends (registration fee increases to $60 per family after this date)

July 2014 7/31 ­ Late Enrollment closed August 2014 8/26 ­ 6:30pm; Back2School Nite for all Praise families September 2014 9/5 ­ First day of classes 9/5­ 1­2 student(s) tuition due

October 2014 10/17 ­ 3+ students tuition due

November 2014 11/7 ­Crossroads Appreciation Cookie Trays 11/14 ­ Last class of the fall semester 11/18 ­ 9:00am, Dress Rehearsal; 6:30pm, Fall Concert 11/21, 11/28 ­ NO CLASSES

December 2014 12/5, 12/12, 12/19, 12/26 ­ NO CLASSES January 2015 1/2 ­ NO CLASSES 1/9 ­ Classes Resume February 2015 March 2015 3/6 Celebrate Praise! Luncheon & Art Reception (tentative date) April 2015 4/3­ Last class of the spring semester 4/7­ 9:00am, Dress Rehearsal; 6:30pm, Spring Concert 4/17­18­ Spring Drama Production (tentative)