CAM vocal

Fall Variety Show

2011-10-10T12:38:00.000-07:00

The creativity is flowing! It is a force that you can feel when you walk in the room and it never ceases to amaze me. Sure, they need prodding, reminding, challenging, and pushing. They need to be stretched, stressed, reigned in, and encouraged. But that is all part of the process.

Heard in the music room: "I've got a lovely bunch of coconuts" sung exuberantly by Mrs. Nichols, "That's MY box of chocolates", "We are Family- chipmunk style!", "How exactly are we going to make ourselves look like penguins?", "Do you happen to have a green pipe cleaner???", "When are we painting the set?", "Where is Angeline???", "I need help with Garage Band!"

Oh folks, it's fun. It's also crazy...........(insert singing here: I've got a lovely bunch of music nuts......) :)

Great Talent Coming Up!

2011-03-28T12:28:00.001-07:00

Wow- I'm always blown away by how much progress the 7/8 grade vocalists make from August to March, but this was an especially great year. Last Thursday, the members of our class sang, danced, and acted their way into the record books with smiles on their faces and joy in their hearts! Wow. This is a very creative group, and I can't wait to see their faces in my High School Vocal room ready to work on the next Variety Show!
Maybe I should explain a little about the process we go through to present our spring concert to you. In January we begin the process by choosing our musical and getting ourselves signed up for committees. This year, Kourtnie Stephenson had written some dialogue that we were able to use, and the rest of the dialogue committee came up with some alternate songs that they thought would fit. The choreography committee took their job very seriously and got to work pounding out the dance steps for the tunes that needed them. The Set, Program, and Costume committees began listing ideas for future projects. Auditions were held, parts were assigned, and deadlines posted. March 24 seemed like a long time in the future, but it wasn't!
I'm so proud of this group of musicians. They began the year as shy singers who were afraid of each other and they ended up last week as a team who, together, put on a great show. Of course that took lots of work at home memorizing dialogue, extra after-school practices, and much courage to step out of their comfort zones. Fantastic job, students! Way to Go!
Thanks to the parents who made extra trips for practices and sent goodies for hungry tummies.
Your kids are great.

Musicians and Friends visit Orpheum!

2011-02-14T08:28:00.000-08:00

Wow! Mary Poppins was wonderful! From the beautiful setting of the Orpheum to the spectacular sets, amazing special effects, stunning singing, and non-stop action IT WAS WONDERFUL! Ask anyone who went and you will get even more superlatives. This was the first time we have taken along some elementary students, and it was so much fun to see it through their eyes. Thanks, everyone, for a wonderful evening. (And thanks, Kay Stork, for the pictures!)

Some cool sites to look at for Christmas

2010-12-22T08:33:00.000-08:00

Today in class (our last before Christmas vacation), we watched some You-Tube videos and responded to them in a Moodle forum. Yep- pretty technological. I was very pleased with most of the comments that my intelligent students made. You can actually go to Moodle and look at them if you want! But before you do, watch these videos for yourself and enjoy!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aHPHnlYi3V0&feature=fvw
(Jackie Evancho singing O Holy Night)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k2NeW7CF_AA
(It Came Upon a Midnight Clear)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F9XNfWNooz4&feature=related
(i-Band)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZCFCeJTEzNU
(Silent Monks)

and my favorite:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0REJ-lCGiKU

Have a wonderful Christmas!
Mrs. Nichols

Reflections on Charlie Brown

2010-12-01T08:24:00.001-08:00

The shows are now memories, but what memories!! Here are some student comments that hit the nail on the head and echo my own sentiments:

Jenna: It was hard balancing this and all my other commitments, but it all worked out and was worth it in the end.

Charles: I enjoyed the fact that the audience was entertained.

Daniel S: I learned that if you want to get anything done you have to do it yourself.

Michaela: I learned that everyone needs to do their part in helping to make the musical the best it can be.

Caitlin: I learned to use big facial expressions and to go all out and give it my best.

Emily: The thing that surprised me were how some of the people who got principle parts sort of became those characters.

Trenda: We got it to the point that it was real life not just a comic strip.

Amber: I didn't think there were going to be so many students come to the musical but there was so that surprised me.

And my personal favorite:

I’ve learned that Mrs. Nichols knows best! (Thanks, Makaye!)

Thanks for the memories!!!

2010-10-25T16:14:00.000-07:00

We have started the 2 week marathon! For the next 14 days, we will eat, sleep, play, live, practice, memorize, love and hate "You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown!" at different points during the process of making this a show we can be proud of. It will be wonderful! The kids will entertain! They will sparkle! They will surprise you and make you laugh! But right now we have 2 weeks of hard work to do before we get to that point. The marathon begins..............

Ready for the Race!

2010-08-23T12:25:00.001-07:00

I was really ready for school to start this year- what a wonderful summer. It wasn't too short, it didn't go by too fast, it wasn't too busy or any of the other things that you hear people say. The reason is because I chose to rest. I sat on my porch and read my books and worked in my flowers and had a lot of fun cutting thistles in the pastures (yep- you heard that right). I walked, I talked, I lunched with friends. I held my grand daughter and traveled with my family. I'm so thankful because I needed that, I mean I REALLY needed that.

So now I'm ready for school and excited about the new year in ways that I haven't been in a long time. You have probably already heard that "You're a Good Man, Charlie Brown" is our musical for this year. Auditions will be this week and the field is wide open. I hope the students are really preparing their auditions, because it is really hard to choose a cast based on how well you think they MIGHT act or sing! And these characters will need good actors to pull them off. The students are researching "Peanuts" characters for their first Moodle assignment, and the entries I've seen so far have been excellent. Choosing the right people for the parts is one of the things that significantly determines the show's success. It is not an easy job, so I thought you might like to know some of the things we take into consideration when casting a show.

1. Acting and singing ability (of course)
2. Reliability (rehearsal attendance)
3. Responsibility (memorization and preparation)
4. Past academic performance (ineligible students cannot perform on stage for the musical)
5. Potential (you can do more than you think you can)
6. Something we DON'T consider too much if at all: age. We cast the students based on what will make the best show. In other words: Don't plan on a part just because you are a senior. AND: Don't be upset if someone younger than you gets a good part. We cast the students based on what will make the best show.

And we will have a great show- I'm sure of that.
So... we're off!

Encore!

2010-05-17T10:21:00.001-07:00

Encore means that the music was so good the crowd wanted more! The theme of our Awards Concert was Encore because we sang great songs from past decades that deserved another singing. It is also how my heart feels about launching this senior class. (I almost wrote "losing" there, but decided against it. Yes, I'll be losing them as members of my high school vocal class. But it is time for them to move on. They are being launched into the bigger world to use their God-given abilities and the lessons I and others have taught them. So I'll stick with launch instead of lose.) Anyway- back to Encore.

I wanted it to go on and on. I didn't want the concert to end. Some of my students felt the same way. On their Moodle assignment, they were asked to write about something that they could have changed about the concert and several of them said that it was over too soon!

Encore. The music and the personalities of this special class will live on in my heart for a very long time. Bailey- you didn't want to let anyone know how much you were enjoying yourself! Kelsey- always giving me 100% even when you didn't feel like it! Tiffany- you are a better singer than you think you are! Paige- what a great dance teacher who created choreography for dancers and non-dancers alike! McKinze- great ideas, sense of humor, and fantastic with the computer! Cassidy- Born entertainer!

Thanks, girls. This was definitely an ENCORE year.

Loving my granddaughter and my job.......

2010-05-06T07:03:00.000-07:00

Natalie Renee was born on April 30, 2010. She is the long awaited answer to prayer by her parents and aunts and uncles and grandparents who grieved her big brother Isaac's stillbirth last January. Which brings me to the reason for this blog entry. I am blessed in many ways- one of those ways is the students I get to teach. I was reminded of this on Natalie's birth day when my phone was receiving texts from my students asking for updates and offering prayer. How special! How special to have the opportunity to invest not only my musical leadership, but my life in students for 6 years so that when they graduate they feel like one of my own. These kids become a part of my life as surely as I become part of theirs. What a privilege.

Contest a Huge Success!!

2010-04-19T08:00:00.000-07:00

Wow. There aren't enough superlatives to say what I feel about last weekend's Solo/Ens contest in Woodbine. However, you know that I'm going to try :)
Some highlights (in no particular order):

*MUSICAL GROWTH!! I am so proud of all of my students who performed Saturday. I have seen them work so hard and make such giant leaps in terms of vocal improvement. EVERYONE has learned so much.

*Amazing ratings!! I have never had a year like we had this year. So many great ratings and good comments from the judges. Honestly, I did not even sit down to figure out ratings until we were all done at 5:00, and I was totally shocked and humbled. You know that the ratings are not what is most important to me (nor should they be to you). However, it sure is nice when someone else appreciates our hard work, isn't it?

*Chamber Choir!! We bit off a very tough piece. Very tough. Up until the last minute we were practicing with our cheat sheet. Our memory was not totally there. But I'll tell you what WAS there- my wonderful students who watched me, concentrated, listened, compensated, and gave their best to remember everything we had learned about this piece from the very beginning. It is so much more rewarding to tackle a hard piece and succeed than sing an easy one and succeed. Many thanks to my students who trusted me and worked together to earn this I rating.

*Outstanding Performances!! After a little visit with the judge in Center 2 after the day was over, I can tell you that all four of the events he was considering for Best of Center (he could only choose one) belonged to CAM High School! What an honor! So cool! In 16 years, these are the 5th and 6th of these coveted honors my students have received. Again- wow!

*Perfect Scores!! The most in any year I've been teaching. We had five!!! Congratulations to Cassidy (solo), Kelsey and Makaye (duet), Cassidy and Colton (duet), Cassidy, Kelsey, Paige (trio), and the Madrigal group (Kelsey, Cassidy, Colton, Dan) who would have had a perfect score except they sang their song so fast that they were penalized for being under time. :)

*Professionalism!! I am so proud of the wonderful stage presence that all performers exhibited. They introduced themselves and their pieces, smiled at the judge, and some people even figured out how to show expression on their faces! We have made so much progress in this area.

*Text Blessing. This text I received is the kind of thing that makes me love my job: "Thanks for encouraging me. I didn't know I could do it."

I feel like a proud mama- WAY TO GO CAM VOCAL STUDENTS!!!!!

PS- Thanks to Michelle Carr for these great pictures.

Lesson of 2009/2010: Flexibility

2010-03-01T09:18:00.000-08:00

Wow. The 2010 Pops Concert will be memorable for so many reasons, both sad, glad, and scary.

Sad: The need to change the concert to a day when we didn't have school. Mr. Berry's trip to the emergency room. Mr. Berry's absence from the pops concert. Paige and Cassidy's laryngitis.

Glad: No need to postpone concert because of snow! Mr. Berry's good prognosis. His Band members stepping up to make him proud in performing 2 of their planned numbers. Kelsey's beautiful senior solo accompanied by Colton Carr. Miss Rudolph's help to make the concert go on as planned (kind of).

Scary: Makaye's switch to alto the day before the concert. Trying on the New Mixed Ensemble Blue tops 1/2 hour before the concert and finding out they need altering. Me losing my place in the music during the Mixed Ensemble's last number. Me stepping in front of the band to conduct it!

Definitely one we won't forget for a while. Get better soon, Mr. Berry. We need you!

Pops Concert 2010 (Changed to Feb. 26- 7:00)

2010-02-22T17:24:00.000-08:00

The pops concert is one of my favorite performances of the year. Why? (you might ask)
Glad you did. I'd really like to share some reasons why I like it so much and also some reasons why it may be a little challenging this year. (Let's call this the good, the bad, and the potentially ugly.)

The Good:
Fun music! Who doesn't like 40's swing, popular radio, jazz, and gospel???
Dedicated students! They come in early to practice most days, juggling breakfast and cheerleading and weightlifting and homework. In fact, 3 of the girls were chosen to dance in the All-Iowa Dance Team at the State Basketball Tournament on March 4 (which was our first pops concert date). Hence the date change.
Senior solos! The seniors have the opportunity to choose their own solo. This gives us a chance to showcase our talented seniors and let them express themselves however they want.
Relaxed Audience! Popcorn, dessert, decorations, and tables- what more could you ask?

The Bad:
Late starts, unplowed roads, and inconsistent rehearsals! Enough said.
Cold and flu season! Need I say more?
Changing the date! Sorry, but the only day we could find was on a day when we don't actually have school.

The Potentially Ugly:
Not a chance- this will be a great concert............as long as it doesn't.........snow....

SWI Honor Choir- Winter of 2010 Version!

2010-02-09T10:08:00.000-08:00

Well, it didn't start OR end like we had planned. But it was an.............adventure!
It started with a car in the ditch (driver will remain nameless) and ended with the cancellation of the concert. I guess I should say it started with lots of early phone calls, a late school start, and late arrival for the CAM delegation in Council Bluffs. As we were arriving, other schools had been called home by their administrators. Bad news: The parents did not get to hear this fantastic choir sing their hearts out at our informal last run-through/pretend concert at 2:45. Good news: The students still had a productive day of singing, learning, and watching the IWCC show choir. For lots of reasons, this is one we will always remember!

Reflections...

2010-01-19T08:38:00.000-08:00

I'm sorry that it has been so long since I posted. I'm not sure anyone reads this blog, but just in case they do, I'll continue to share my thoughts and feelings here about whatever we happen to be doing at the time. Since I'm so far behind, though, I'll try to get caught up with some word associations:
Christmas concert- lovely!
(Of course I can't be content with just one word. I was so proud of the kids. They are making such progress in learning how to express emotion with their music!)

Mixed Ensemble Christmas tour- grueling but rewarding!
(By the 6th performance in one day, they were thirsty and tired. But they persevered and realized that brightening peoples' days was worth it. I still get comments in Atlantic about how well they did!)

Snow Days- schedule- disrupting!
(Besides having to reschedule the Christmas concert, we had less time to prepare our National
Anthem auditions for IHSMA Boys State Tournament. Those results should be coming any time.)

Solo/Ensemble Contest- individual lessons!
(We are hard at work choosing music and beginning our preparation for this contest in April.
I enjoy this time of year because I get to work with more students individually and in smaller groups. Right now we have 24 events signed up, but I need to pare it down for my own sanity and also because I can legally only play for 20.)

Pre-concert Recital- coming soon!
(We will try to have some of our contest pieces ready to sing at an informal recital during PT Conferences on Feb 25. If you can't come to contest on April 17, this would be a good time to hear what your singers are working on!)

SWI Honor Choir- help!!
(Eight students have been chosen to attend this even on Feb 8 at IWCC in Council Bluffs. We
have missed several rehearsals because of snow days and late starts. They need to be practicing at home with their CD's!! I'm also accompanying this concert and the music is HARD!)

Pops Concert- fun!
(Plan to join us on Feb 26. You will really enjoy it. Mixed Ensemble, CAM Band, Senior solos, popcorn, desserts, great music. What's not to like?? One of my favorite events of the year.)

I think I'm caught up now. Whew. Anyone out there???

Thanks for the music!

2009-11-25T06:51:00.001-08:00

The All-State concert is a musical gift! It represents years of work, practice, hopes, dreams, ideas, musical growth, frustration, and heartache. It is a gift to the directors, the parents, the audience, and to the participants. And for this gift I must say thank you! Thank you for all the hours of practice and dedication. Thank you for trusting me. Thank you for persevering when you wanted to give up. Thank you for using the talent God gave you to bless others. Thank you for creating a musical moment that brought tears, laughter, goosebumps, surprise, and JOY! Thank you from the bottom of my heart.

Hello from All-State!

2009-11-20T18:49:00.000-08:00

We had three separate rehearsals today totaling 7 1/2 hours of hard work and amazing musical moments. The director has a unique style of bringing together all 600 voices for one purpose. At the end of every rehearsal, students are invited to stand up and give their comments and compliments to all or parts of the choir. One student shared, "When we all sing together, it's like nature calling."

We ate dinner at the famous Hickory Park Restaurant with some special family guests. We would like to thank the Music Boosters for their generosity in paying for our meals while we're at All-State. Becca McLeran from Exira is joining us in our All-State experience. She's the fist All-State Chorus member from her school, and a private student of Mrs. Nichols.

Tomorrow we'll have three more rehearsals, and a concert at 7:30 p.m. at Hilton Coliseum on the ISU campus in Ames. We're proud to represent CAM at the most prestigious selective choir in the state.

by Jenna Karas and Mrs. Nichols

Three Performances in 4 Days!

2009-11-13T08:49:00.000-08:00

I'm so proud of my students. They did a wonderful job at the Variety Show- the culmination of months of creating, planning, rehearsing, waiting, and work! They had fun and want to do it again! And then, before they (and myself) were fully recovered from that big weekend, we were off to spend the day singing at the Conference Vocal Festival at Payton-Churdan! We represented our school very well. Besides the facts that we were among the best prepared and had one of the best individual school performances (even though they are entirely sick of "Rock This Town") there are at least two more things that make me smile: We had 9 students audition for solo spots, (5 were chosen), AND our entire bass section was moved to the back of the choir by the director so they could lead the rest of the basses. Pretty cool. Also pretty cool was what happened during a break when they were testing our accompaniment CD in the gym sound system. My exhausted, talented, heroic students (many of whom were relaxing by sitting or laying on the floor) heard "their song" and immediately jumped up and began singing and dancing!! I'm just so proud.

Ps.
In the pictures, you can see the blue-shirted bass section and the soloists.

Wow- Four in All-State

2009-10-27T09:10:00.000-07:00

Unbelievable, really. And a testament to the hard work that all who auditioned put forward to be prepared for audition day. The commitment that these students show is amazing and it humbles me. They are juggling jobs, sports, cheerleading, dance, family commitments, variety show preparation, and I'm told they even have other subjects they are taking that require homework!! :)

Let me just give you an idea of what kind of practicing it takes to be ready to sing seven college level choral pieces PERFECTLY with beautiful tone and expressive musicianship WITHOUT the benefit of a piano or someone else singing your part: At least two All-State camps, some of which are in August before school even begins; practice at home with a part-learning CD; early morning practice; and DAILY practice with your group. Thanks, students. Thanks for sacrificing vacation, Saturdays, sleep, time, and personal desires. You make my job a joy. Most of the time. :)

Homecoming Soup Supper

2009-09-16T11:17:00.000-07:00

It seems a bit early to be trotting out the High School Music students for a community performance but we are going to give it our best shot. We have a record number of kids in the program this year, which I attribute to the Variety Show we are creating. It's amazing that the students are so excited about this wonderful process and I'm glad because their energy gives me energy!
Bring your family and help the Music Boosters raise money for their projects (see article below). Homecoming Coronation September 24. Soup will be served beginning at 5:00. The HS Band and Chorus will perfom at 6:15, and the Coronation starts at 7:00. THANKS!

CAM MUSIC DEPARTMENT THANKS COMMUNITY

Miss Rudolph, Mrs. Nichols, and Mr. Berry would like to thank the Anita, Cumberland, and Massena communities for their generous support of our programs in the last year. Without your contributions that you place in the donation bowl or box at every concert, the music programs at all three schools would look very different. For example, at the High School the money goes towards costuming, set construction, scholarships, instruments, celebratory parties and field trips to encourage and reward participation, sound equipment, a digital camera, and food allowances for the All-State Honor Music Festival. T-shirts have been purchased at the Middle School and Elementary School for marching band and the summer musical, along with portable keyboards and other supplies. Last year, we purchased 2 ear piece microphones and sent the band on an overnight trip, among other things. This year, our first purchases will include a digital camcorder, some costuming for the HS Vocal Mixed Ensemble, and some band equipment. The music boosters (an elected board of 8 volunteer parents) collect and administer the funds and would like to join the music staff in thanking the community for supporting music in our schools.

Performing with the Stars!

2009-09-08T11:58:00.000-07:00

The ideas are flowing and the creativity is kicking into high gear! I was stuck for a while myself, but now we are rolling! Here are just a few of the ideas kicking around. Our students may impersonate some of the following famous entertainers- rock star, rapper, dancer, rock and roll icon. We may recruit some students from the student body to be "guest performers". It is even rumored that the Spice Girls may make a guest appearance! We are currently negotiating with two former CAM'S Got Talent stars who may decide to reappear, and conducting auditions for the host and judges positions. There may even be some audience participation and who knows how many parents will find themselves on stage?
I love watching the kids take ownership of this amazing procedure and being surprised at what happens. Right now, they are a little nervous about it. But soon we will have more potential acts than we have stage time! Put the first weekend in November on your calendar- you are not going to want to miss this!

2009 Variety Show Theme Announced!

2009-05-22T11:32:00.000-07:00

Performing with the Stars!!!

The hit show "Dancing with the Stars" has inspired us to create a variety show that will include many of the same elements. As the students create this show, they will be looking for "stars" of several kinds: alumni, faculty, and impersonators! These stars, along with their young partners, will sing, dance, act, and be funny. Our creative students will build their show around these "stars", their partners, and the drama that accompanies them. Mark your calendars now! You won't want to miss CAM's version of "PERFORMING WITH THE STARS!!!"

Awards Concert Highlights

2009-05-22T11:21:00.000-07:00

Seniors Brett and Jessica enjoyed their last performance................Recent Broadway hit songs provided great entertainment...........The new girl in town (Tiffany) got ran over by a moving van.........Paige danced a solo during "The Lion King"............Colton was surprised by silly string!!

Great job everyone!

Solo/Ensemble Contest a Success

2009-04-24T07:09:00.000-07:00

2009 Solo/Ensemble contest is but a wonderful, exhausted memory. But April 18 does merit a bit of reflection as I sort it's music and prepare for the end of the year activities.

Top Ten memories from 2009 Solo/Ensemble Contest (in no meaningful order)

No surprises: everyone got on the bus that we were expecting!!
Teamwork: The kids supported each other and worked together- heartwarming!
Helpful parents & students: who could see that their director was a bit overwhelmed at times.
Musical Growth: so much evidence of hard work and learning.
Perfect Scores: 2 of them- both on trios.
Continued excellence: 12 Ones, 8 Twos, 2 Threes
Chamber Choir: Beautiful, meaningful performance.
Musical Moments: A couple touching performances that communicated with the audience.
Exhausted students: who gave everything they had and more.
AND..............
Australia: the movie I watched when I was finally in my recliner with my cup of tea!!!

Answering Questions

2009-03-02T06:42:00.000-08:00

Occasionally, questions come up that remind me that some of this might be new to people. While I am stuck in high school and the seasons pass without much variation in schedule from year to year, not everyone understands the method behind my madness. So what follows is a not so short explanation of MIXED ENSEMBLE!!! (pictured above is last year's group at solo/ensemble contest)

At the beginning of the year, I hold auditions for the Mixed Ensemble. It is totally voluntary, although the freshmen may not really understand what they are auditioning for. In a normal year (if there is such a thing), I usually have enough upper classmen that the freshmen have a slim chance of being chosen for obvious reasons. We do rehearse before school quite a bit, depending on the season of the year. Here are the main things that we do that are above and beyond the requirements of the class:

Christmas Concert- sing one number
Pops Concert- 4 songs (totally responsible for the vocal portion of the pops concert- whole class does not sing)
Contest- We will perform 2 songs not yet learned
Awards Concert- The mixed ensemble will perform one set (medley of songs) and the whole class will perform one set.

We also get requests during the year to provide music for different clubs, events, etc. When I get these requests, I usually turn to the mixed ensemble to provide it. In this way, we are ambassadors to the community for the music department and the school. We always go at least twice to the Colonial Manor in Anita.

I realize that the time commitment is huge and I do so appreciate the effort that they all make to come to extra rehearsals. The rewards are great! They sing harder music than the big group is able to sing- so gifted students are challenged and not bored. They grow together as a group- finding a safe peer group that includes classes other than their own age level. We create great memories as we go places! We learn about serving others through sharing our music beyond the school. We learn that hard work pays off!

Bigger schools have an auditioned group (and it is usually a show choir) that is scheduled as a separate class so that the rest of the students don't have to be idle while the select group is rehearsing. I have enough trouble getting my students all in one class for the day, let alone asking them to sign up for 2. So I have always had the select group come in before school.

There are other times when we have before-school rehearsals. The All-State Auditioners rehearse before school, and the SWI Honor Choir kids do also. Very often, the mixed ensemble kids are the same as the All-State and SWI kids, but not always. I also choose a couple of alternates who rehearse with us as much as they can so they are ready to step in when we need them because of illness or schedule conflicts.

Now the question: If the Mixed Ensemble rehearses before school, what goes on during our regular class period? Here is a breakdown of what the whole class is doing at any given time during the year:
Fall: Musical or Variety Show and music for Conference Vocal Festival
Winter: Christmas
Jan-April: Small Group Contest. We always take at least 20 events. Each event includes 2 songs.
Mar-May: Awards Concert. This is the closest we get to show choir. Everyone sings and dances!

This schedule has served my program well over the years.
If you have any more questions, please don't hesitate to ask!
Mrs. Nichols

2009-02-09T14:26:00.000-08:00

It has been a rough couple of weeks. Our grandson was brought into this world and left it on the same day. Why do I share this here? Why did I show this picture to my students and tell them with tears about the short life of sweet Isaac? Because all life is precious, no matter how short it is, and it deserves to be celebrated. Because I want my students to share their lives with me, so I share mine with them. Because they are good at giving hugs. Because some of them have similar stories. Because I want them to know I'm human. Because I want to share with them the source of my strength for today and my hope for tomorrow.

On a musical note, all of our life experiences help give us a reservoir of emotion from which we draw when we are communicating a piece of music to an audience. I'm hoping to help my students to draw deep when we are performing, so that our music is more than notes and rhythms and words, so that our music communicates emotion to the audience. And thus we will celebrate life.

New Beginnings

2009-01-09T07:10:00.000-08:00

I'm really trying to get back in the swing of things, but it's hard. Our family had such a wonderful vacation in Colorado, I got to see my daughter who lives in Honduras, only one person got sick, the weather was beautiful, we celebrated Jesus, ................and then school started! Which is great, because I do love my job. But this year more than most I'm having trouble shifting gears. Maybe it's because I'm older. My kids would say it is because I'm going to be a grandma. Part of it is that the semesters are so different in my class. First semester is musical, all-state, and Christmas. Second semester is solo/ensemble contest, pops concert, and Awards concert. So we really have to start over and that takes lots of organization and planning. So here's where we stand (in case you ever wonder what I do with my time).

So far this week, I have: chosen and ordered music for the chamber choir to sing at contest, sorted files and files of music looking for appropriate contest music, tidied the costume loft (something I wanted to do before Christmas), posted and partially graded a moodle assignment for this week, finished grades from last semester, ordered more music for SWI Honor Choir, made some preliminary decisions about music for the Awards concert in May, finished the Bye Bye Birdie picture collage (which hangs at the back of the room with the others from every production since I've been here), registered for honor choirs, checked dates for all spring events, tried to find an accompanist for chamber choir (any volunteers?), supervised band when Mr. Berry went home sick, prepared for and taught my classes, drove to Massena twice, and updated this blog!!!! Wow, now I'm tired.

On a different note related to planning: some of us are going to Des Moines to see the evening performance of Hairspray on March 20. I still have some tickets left if you want to go with us. Just let me know and bring a check for $28.50.

I hope you are enjoying your new beginnings!

One of My Favorite Things!

2008-12-12T12:39:00.001-08:00

One of my favorite things at Christmas time is the Christmas Concert at ISU. It was very special when my daughter was in one of the ensembles that performed in it several years ago. It's a different kind of special to see my former students participating! The picture is of the Men's Choir, one of four ensembles that performed at ISU last Sunday December 7. Paul Wedemeyer has been a member of this group since he was a freshman. I believe this is his third Christmas Concert. This is the second year for Amy Williamson to participate. She is in one of the women's ensembles called Lyrica. Her sister Sarah also sang in it when she was there.

Why is this one of my favorite things? I love C.Y. Stephens Auditorium, for one thing. It seriously has the best acoustics of any performance hall in the country. Secondly, I love the music that the directors choose. It is traditional, yet different in a very classic way. I love the fact that all four choirs fill the stage to capacity and join their voices together for the finale! But most of all, I love it that my students are still singing. What a gift to themselves, to their communities, to their families, and to me!!

Holiday Happenings

2008-12-02T07:22:00.000-08:00

By the time New Year's Day arrives, most music teachers are in Christmas music shell shock. We pick out our Christmas music in September, begin preparing it with our students in October, perform it for you in December, and then we don't want to hear Christmas music again for quite a while! Throw in a couple church programs and those of our own children, and we definitely get enough Christmas spirit to last for several months. That's not to say we don't enjoy it, though. We love helping you celebrate Christmas! We hope to see you at one of the Christmas concerts coming up soon: December 8 (7:00 Middle School) and December 11 (7:00 High School).

This might be a good place to tell you about my philosophy of celebrating Christmas with traditional Christmas music. You might be thinking that I'm quite politically incorrect. Well, if you know me very well, you know that label doesn't bother me in the slightest. However, I plan very carefully to include a variety of music on our Christmas programs. You will almost always hear Latin, (Gloria in excelsis Deo!) some kind of snow or Fa la la song, and definitely at least one traditional carol that you will recognize. I think it is important to remember our traditional musical roots when it comes to Christmas, and if you want more information on this, let's talk in person.

Until then, have a wonderful, music-filled Christmas season!

Crazy routine- delightful and unexpected!

2008-11-20T11:37:00.000-08:00

Two phrases stuck out to me when reading my daughter's blog last night:
http://www.foreignheart.blogspot.com/
(please excuse the shameless plug)

"....routine.......crazy"

"..delightful, unexpected, life things..."

So, because she was asking for guest writers for this week (and it's already Thursday), and because I am enjoying a wonderfully relaxing day while my students are at an honor choir, I am sharing this tiny space of ...space... with her.

At some point in everyone's life, if they are productive and passionate and purposeful, (please note alliteration- I worked very hard at that), they find out that, oddly enough, routine and crazy actually work out very well together. The key is realizing that each have their time and place, and knowing when to roll with routine and rock with crazy. Flexibility! Those of us who are control freaks have a hard time with this, but believe me it's one of the most valuable lessons to learn in life. Side benefit: aids in learning to trust our Heavenly Father!

Which leads to the second phrase rolling around in my head. If we are flexing, trusting, rocking, and rolling, we will discover "delightful, unexpected, life things!" Those serendipitous moments that push us out of our routine and into crazy. Those "out of control" things that happen when we least expect it, but we learn to cherish because of their infrequency. Things like unexpected compliments, deep conversations, touching compassion, random acts of kindness, surprise encounters.
Enjoy your crazy routine, my daughters. In it you will find the delightful and the unexpected.

Coaching

2008-11-12T08:58:00.000-08:00

I've been thinking a lot about coaching the last couple of weeks for a couple of reasons.

First, my oldest son is in his first season as head football coach in a large school in Michigan. They are in the State Playoffs, and are 2 games from playing in the Championship game in Detroit on Thanksgiving weekend. We talk a lot about getting the most from our students, about preparing them to do their best, teaching them skills, about motivating them, pushing them, helping them to reach their potential when they have no idea what that is. We have a lot in common. Which is why the back of my musical shirt says: Coach.
We had a great conversation last night. He was telling me about the things he was doing to prepare his team for their big game Friday night. Things like: practicing at a school that has turf and setting a curfew and giving nutritional guidelines to parents. In the beginning of the season, the boys were unsure about their new coach. He had a lot of schedules and requirements. He was disciplined and organized and he expected them to be. He accepted no excuses and pushed them. Hard. But now they trust him because they have been successful. They will go to bed early, eat the food on the list, and show up ready to play because they trust him and they know that everything he asks them to do is important. Wow does that sound familiar.
As I think about Bye Bye Birdie, I remember the schedules and the requirements and the expectations and the discipline and the organization. And every one of those things are important for the success of the show. Every piece of the puzzle is calculated to culminate in a show that we are prepared to perform and can be proud of. Thank you, parents and students, for trusting me even when you weren't sure that what I was asking was all that important. Thank you for digging down deep to respond when I kept pushing you. Thank you for paying attention to detail. Thank you for helping each other. Thank you for making my job so enjoyable. Thanks for the memories of our oh-so-wonderful Bye Bye Birdie production. It was a joy.

Go CAM Cougars! Musical date changes!

2008-10-07T06:45:00.000-07:00

There is only one reason why I would re-arrange the rehearsal and performance schedule for the musical because I am very committed to sticking with the dates that were published at the beginning of the school year. HOWEVER, when musical cast members and successful football team members end up being some of the same people, changes are necessary.

So I find myself in a good news/bad news kind of situation. I LOVE football. I have three sons who played football and our oldest is now a head football coach in a West Michigan town slightly larger than Atlantic. Our sons were also musical. They each had the lead in a musical during their senior year of high school. So the balancing act of keeping lots of balls in the air is very familiar to me. I am also highly committed to making sure no athlete or musician is put in a position where they must choose between the two. So the good news is: CAM Cougars are undefeated and are headed to the State playoffs, barring injury. And now for the bad news: We must be creative about getting in enough rehearsals to also make the musical a success.

Some background: The reason why we schedule the musical for the first weekend in November is because that is usually a week without any sports practices.....unless of course the teams are being highly successful and are going on in tournament play. This year is, of course, one of those years.

SO- here are the newly scheduled rehearsals and performance dates. I sincerely hope that we can have both a successful football team AND a successful, entertaining musical. Your support is needed and greatly appreciated.

Monday 10/27: 6-9
Tuesday 10/28: 7-10
Thursday 10/30: 7-10
Friday 10/31: 7-10
Saturday 11/1: 10-1 (new)

Monday 11/3: 6-9 if no football game
Tuesday 11/4: 6-9
Wednesday 11/5: 6-9
Thursday 11/6: 6-9
Friday 11/7: 6-9 if no football game
Saturday 11/8: 10-1 (new)
Saturday 11/8: Performance
Sunday 11/9: Performance (new)

and...........We're Off!!

2008-08-26T07:09:00.000-07:00

The calendar propels us into the new school year, ready or not! I seemed to be in the NOT READY category for various reasons, but gradually I'm getting there. Between moving my children here and there (foreign countries, college transfers) and my own travels, it has been a very busy summer which I thoroughly enjoyed. But now I must turn my thoughts and energies to creative musical preparations (would you like to see a cameo appearance of the faculty barbershop quartet?), sequencing All-State music (how many times will it take me to get the counting right?), ordering music (what can we learn quickly for Homecoming?), and a thousand other details that seem to get lost in my foggy mind from time to time. Sometimes I think I have Hilary Clinton's disease: "I'm sorry, I can't recall........." (If you didn't get that, you are not old enough!!)
Here is some information you may be interested in: 1)I will be organizing a team of extras for the musical that will not need to be in vocal music and will only commit to coming to the last 2 weeks of rehearsal. To put it simply: I need more guys. Send them my way! 2)Yes, your kids will need to bring their computers to my class as well as the others. I have some activities planned that they will enjoy and will be delivering them on Moodle, which they should be familiar with unless they are freshmen. I'm also going to try to keep the calendar on Moodle so if you are unsure about a time or a rehearsal and the paper rehearsal calendar didn't make it home to the fridge, you can check it out on line.
There are lots of ways you can contact me: school phone, cell phone, email, blog. Please let me know how I can help you!

Off and running........
Mrs. Nichols

Bye Bye.........Summer

2008-08-04T11:44:00.001-07:00

I hope your summer has been as wonderful as mine; filled with family, hard work, great play, and spiritual growth. Now it's time to begin to think about the new school year and the challenges it will bring.

What challenges, you might ask??
Well, the biggest one will be the production of our musical, which will be...................
Bye Bye Birdie!!!!! IF we get enough students enrolled in vocal music we will have a great time with this 1950's story involving an Elvis character. I really need each vocal music student from last year to bring along at least one friend so we will have enough people. Remember that students can join vocal for only one semester if they want to. The reason why we expect those who want to be in the musical to enroll in vocal music is because much of our rehearsal takes place during class until the last week in October. The last week of October and the first week of November will be filled with after school and/or evening rehearsals and this is where we pull the whole thing together. Of course, we work around football and volleyball when we have to. This schedule has worked very well for us for the last several years, and limits the amount of evening rehearsals we have. Auditions will take place shortly after the beginning of school, so recruit, recruit, recruit!!!

Mrs. Nichols
ps
You can read a synopsis of the plot at the school web site under Activities: Vocal Music

2008-06-24T14:19:00.001-07:00

Hello CAM Vocal fans! I'm SO sorry that I haven't posted since April, for goodness sake!
I'm going to try to do better now that I have the World Wide Web in my very own little office at HOME.
I've been thinking about all the music that has happened since contest and even during the summer so far. Let's see--we sang ABBA songs, Joseph and the Technicolor Dreamcoat songs, prepared for Graduation, and Lucas sang at the Alumni Banquet. Students or former students have sung in New York City, churches in Cass County, and led music at Bible Camps. You'll see them at the Relay for Life and the July 4th celebration in Massena. We are just so busy spreading the joy! And I couldn't be prouder. One of my goals as a teacher is to help students be comfortable sharing their music in the community without me- taking their amazing abilities with them into their bright futures.
For right now, I'm taking a bit of a musical break, but you know how to reach me if you need me. I'll be ready to go at it again in August, but I'm not quite there yet. Let's see, I think I need about 40 more days of vacation! :)
Enjoy!
Mrs. Nichols

Another Contest in the Bag

2008-04-14T13:21:00.001-07:00

I was wishing just now that I had some pictures of contest to show you, but that would mean that I remembered to take my camera last Saturday, and that I had time to take pictures.
But neither of those things happened. So you are going to have to use your imagination and picture 14 TALENTED kids singing their hearts out all day long and bringing home 9 I's and 4 II's- which is AMAZING. I love contest season for one very big reason- I get to work individually and in small groups with my students and I get to see how much they progress (which is relative, of course, to how much effort they expend!). I'm so proud of this group. You might notice that we are missing some faces in the picture, but they were with us Saturday: Riley Groves, Colton Carr, Jessica Thelen. We are also missing Erin Steele, of course. But some great news- she is being released from the hospital today!! We are so thankful that we will see her again soon. Special memories of Contest 2008: Jenna singing like a trooper through a sore throat; Mixed Trio getting totally lost in their difficult acapella piece but ending together and totally impressing the judge!; Shy Ellisa bravely singing a solo!; our FANTASTIC men's group; being the best Chamber Choir; Cassidy remembering Amazing Grace lyrics just in time :); Colton's introduction of his duet with Cassidy (you'll have to ask him); Brave Brett taking a solo for the first time as a junior; and the audience reaction when Riley finished his solo.
Unforgettable. Thanks, everyone. You make me smile.

Students travel to Everly

2008-04-01T10:55:00.001-07:00

Six students accompanied Mrs. Nichols on March 28 to attend a production of "Guys and Dolls" which starred former CAM standout Scott Kruse. Scott played Sky Masterson, the gambler who gave up his wicked ways for a virtuous "mission doll." It was a long ways to Everly (think Okoboji), but we are so glad we went. Scott did a fantastic job! The sets were awesome! The acting was professional! The singing was exceptional! Wow- what a trip. We miss him so much, but it's so good to know that he is in a place where he is able to use his talents and abilities and where he is appreciated. Way to go Scott! Wonder what next year's musical will be at Clay Central-Everly!!

River Dance a Hit!!

2008-03-17T07:12:00.001-07:00

River Dance exceeded our expectations Friday night- what a joy to be a part of something so wonderful. The dancing (how do they DO that?), the singing (breathtaking) and the instrumentalists (five men making so much music- incredible) were all top-notch and something we will remember for a long time. We also enjoyed dining at Applebee's in West Des Moines (see picture), and were joined by some CAM High School alumni and their moms.
The tradition continues! Funny things that happened: Thinking Miss R. expected me to have her ticket, emergency stop for CC, losing Mr. Berry, getting Regular instead of Decaf coffee, and trying to get out of the parking garage after the show. Ok, they weren't funny then, but seem humorous now! Thanks, everyone, for a great trip.

So Much Fun!!

2008-03-05T11:16:00.001-08:00

Riley was chosen by audition to sing the National Anthem for one of the sessions of the Boys' State Basketball tournament, and he represented us all very well.
Thanks, Riley, for remembering that the song is about our country and not about you! Thanks, IHSAA, for taking such good care of us and for giving talented musicians this wonderful opportunity. Thanks, CAM Boys' BB team, who supported Riley by attending the day he sang.
I agree with Riley: "That was so much fun!!!"
You can see his performance by going to the front page of the school web site and clicking on the link in the article Mr. Giegerich wrote.

In other news: Solo and Ensemble Contest will be here before we know it. (April 12, Coon Rapids) In order to encourage my students to practice and memorize NOW, we will again be having a Pre-Contest Recital during Parent-Teacher Conferences on March 17. My goals are to give the students something to work for that's a little closer than April, and also to give more parents an opportunity to see their children sing. All vocal students are required to participate in at least one event. (Most choose to do more than this.) In addition, all vocal students are required to participate in the Pre-Contest Recital. Thanks for encouraging them to practice and memorize their music!

Southwest Iowa Honor Choir a Success!

2008-02-12T07:55:00.000-08:00

Eight tired CAM vocal students (and one exhausted teacher) reported for school Tuesday morning the 12th after a hard, but rewarding, day of rehearsal at the Southwest Iowa Honor Choir Festival in Council Bluffs on Monday, February 11. We had a really good day, led by Mr. Joel Johnston of Omaha. He had only four rules for the day, which he cleverly re-enforced as the day went on. His rules helped to establish his expectations for the group, as well as focus them when the energy level began to sag. Here were his "rules" for making music together yesterday:
1) Tonight we will have an "event", not a concert; 2) For today we will put our list of complaints, concerns, and problems AWAY; 3) Remember not to count Crayons (comparing your box to others' boxes), but just to draw; 4) We had his permission to be BRILLIANT! (instead of lazy, non-musical, bored, or inattentive). With these expectations, we embarked on a journey of music making for the day. (I say we, because as accompanist, I was right there with them all day. Sore back to prove it.)
What a successful day in so many ways. First, we participated in a music making event that we will remember for a long time. Secondly, we had such an appreciative crowd of parents and loved ones. Thirdly, we learned a lot about music, singing, and being brilliant! In addition, we were well-represented in the twelve "soloists" chosen by the director by four courageous students from our school (Colton, Daniel, Luke, Jenna).
Thank you! Thank you students for working hard. Thank you parents for coming. Thank you, Joel Johnston for helping us create a musical event.
Boy am I tired!
Mrs. Nichols

Riley honored!

2008-02-07T12:08:00.000-08:00

After the teams are announced for the third session of the Boys' State Basketball tournament on March 4 in Des Moines, the crowd will grow quiet in anticipation of the singing of the National Anthem. And.......CAM Senior Riley will be singing it!! Chosen by audition to participate in this year's Iowa High School Athletic Union State Tournament series, Riley is one of a select few to hold this honor. Riley, we are all proud of you!
This is a significant event in my mind for a couple of reasons. The first one involves my own growth as a teacher. Looking for new opportunities for my students usually means that I also have to try something new and different. This is the first year that I have submitted singers to the IHSAU for National Anthem consideration. My hats go off to all the kids that gave this a try right before Christmas! And don't worry, we'll give it another go again next year.
The second reason that this is significant is the obvious inter-dependency that sports and music share. I love music and I also love sports. Many times I have stood with my hand over my heart, at attention for the singing (or playing) of the National Anthem at a sporting event. How wonderful to take the time to acknowledge our great country, say a prayer for our armed service protectors (and the son on the field), celebrate a beautiful voice or blend of voices, and raise the spirit for a good game! There's nothing better. Thirdly, I am so proud of the accomplished poise of my students. Because many of them have had character-building experiences like auditioning for All-State, singing the National Anthem at home games, participating in small group contest and singing in front of their peers, they can shout for joy when they get news like what I gave Riley last Friday instead of cowering in fear at the thought of such an audience. Riley almost did a hand stand when I told him. Pretty cool.
Riley- we're just so proud that you will be representing us in Des Moines on March 4. Sing your heart out.

Southwest Iowa Honor Choir

2008-01-22T08:54:00.001-08:00

These students (plus Jessica Thelen) will be participating in the Southwest Iowa Honor Choir on February 4 at IWCC. Don't they look happy?
They are delighted, because they will get to spend a whole day with a distinguished director and 200 other choral students from all over Southwest Iowa! This is one of my favorite days of the year. Many Southwest Iowa schools, regardless of class, send balanced quartets of their best students to enjoy making music together. We get to eat at fun places, meet new people, sing our hearts out, and participate in a very special evening performance. I will be accompanying the performance, which is a treat for me on that gorgeous grand piano. We will also be treated to a guest performance by the IWCC show choir! We hope you can join us!

Seasons

2007-11-27T07:27:00.000-08:00

I tell my grown children (if you didn't know, I have five of my own plus all of yours!) that they should be thankful that they get to move on in their lives. I'm eternally stuck in high school! But if I didn't love it, I wouldn't be here. Which brings me to the title of this blog: seasons. In my job, seasons are defined a little differently than fall, winter, spring, summer. They pass without fail in the following way: All-State/Musical (or Variety Show) season, Christmas concert season, Pops Concert season, Contest season, Awards concert season. And that's just the high school. Of course, we have been working on Christmas music for 2 weeks now. It tends to sneak up on us. The mixed ensemble is getting ready to go out into the community to spread Christmas cheer. If you have an event for which you need Christmas music, let me know! All I ask is that you give me at least 2 weeks' notice (preferably more). At other times of the year, we need more lead time. But we are already preparing for a Care Center gig on December 19 so we should be ready by the 10th or so to help you out.
On another topic, let's talk about leaving comments on this or any blog. There are only 2 ways that I know people are reading this blog to get all of this essential information:) 1- you tell me in person (thanks, Diana). 2- you leave a comment on the blog. It's really easy and here are the step by step instructions. If you want to post a comment to my blog, (it’s always great to know that someone is reading my blog!) all you need to do is go to www.google.com and create an account. You will use this account information to reply to my blog after you click on the word "comment" at the bottom of the entry you want to reply to. It will then ask you to log in. You'll have to remember your log in information! Good luck!

Looking forward to comments from readers,
Mrs. Nichols

Kelsey & Colton's All-State Adventure

2007-11-16T14:55:00.000-08:00

Hello everybody! Right now Colton and I are in Ames at the 2007 Iowa All-State Festival, and we are having a blast! This is the first time that me or Colton have participated in the All-State experience and so far it's been amazing. I personally have never done anything like it. There are 603 of the finest singers in Iowa all singing in the same place at the same time and it's just...wonderful! : The volume of the voices and the extreme talent of every individual is stunning and today during rehearsal I had to just sit down and say, "wow!"...haha... Me and Colton both are meeting tons of new people and starting new friendships. When we're not rehearsing we have to find things to do and one of the things we discovered was the 'Photo Booth' on Mrs. N's computer (explains the picture) :)... but just thought I'd tell everybody that we're having a good time here in Ames.

Opus Concert a Success

2007-11-16T12:49:00.000-08:00

Success can be described in many ways. But I think you would have to say that this year's Opus Honor Choir Festival was a success in every way. First of all, you have four eager and talented students who are eager to learn and grow musically. Second of all, you have three gifted guest directors who love kids and are eager to share their musical wisdom. Thirdly, there are the supportive parents who provide transportation, money, and their presence (even when they don't feel well) to encourage these budding musicians. We can't forget the 716 other students from around the state who made up the rest of the four 180 member choirs. Add the teachers who lovingly prepared them and the packed house audience and you have the makings for a memory-making experience.
I haven't had the time to REALLY talk to the participants from yesterday: Alyssa, Daniel, Makaye, and Jenna because I'm still in Ames with the All-State students. I can't wait to hear what they have to say. I have three highlights of my own to share, however. For my thoughts to make sense to you, you will need to know that I happen to be the Chairman for this year's 7/8 grade girls choir. Thought #1: Students enjoy and NEED to be a part of something bigger than themselves. When they are, it changes them for the better. I had a student tell me during the day that "this has been one of the best experiences of my life." Sigh. Thought #2: Some musical treasures can be gifts from God. During the 7/8 grade concert I was moved to tears at the mature and lovely heart-touching emotion that the choir poured into their song "Heart, We Will Forget Him." Simply beautiful. Thought #3: It's so cool when you are appreciated for all your hard work. All four choirs received standing ovations from a packed CY Stephens Auditorium crowd and the sincere thanks of their directors. I received a heartfelt thank you from a parent that I did not know for making this experience possible for his daughter. What a gift! OPUS 2007-What a wonderful memory!!

We did it!

2007-11-07T11:20:00.000-08:00

I'm always surprised and I shouldn't be. You would think that, after 15 years of doing this in one form or another, I would never be surprised by the fact that the show comes together even if I think it will be a flop. As I mentioned in the previous entry, these variety shows are a different animal. It must be the control factor. I thrive on it, love it, and need it. So when I have to give some of it up to a group of 32 teenagers, I have to do a lot of deep-breath-taking and gulping before I say confidently "ok, we'll try it." When DJ patiently explains FOUR DAYS BEFORE THE SHOW that the Wild Boyz would like to find a new song. Gulp. When the beef jerky commercial needs what kind of costume?? Swallow. When Cassidy is sure that the blue wig will be "poifect" for her judge character. Sigh. When Brett is positive that he can dance the Cuban Pete number "just like Jim Carrey". OK. When Riley needs his Ray Charles karaoke transposed how far up?? No Problem.

I'm so proud of this group of kids. They were all there- 100 %- doing what they had created with no apologies or regrets. WAY TO GO! And THANKS to all who helped in any way- especially those not in band or vocal who helped us just because we asked. Bailey and Erin- nice job.

And thanks to two of the best co-directors I could have!

Mrs. Nichols

CAM does indeed have talent!

2007-11-01T11:23:00.000-07:00

Some random musings about variety show production.....
1. I always wonder if we will really have a show. I know we have talented students.
But will the show flow? will people laugh? will the voices be heard? will they be understood? Will the costumes enhance the performance or detract from it? Will the technology work? Will they remember their entrances and their props? Will our support crew think it's important enough to volunteer their time? Will the inevitable short tempers and personality conflicts divide the cast?

2. Sometime in the last week before the show we always turn a corner and I know without a doubt that we will have an entertaining show. This year it was Tuesday. Anyone who saw
us last week would have wondered what we were selling tickets for! Ask Chad, the janitor.
He has suffered through the whole process with us and never said a discouraging word.

3. Musicals are easier. There is a script, written out songs, a plot and set suggestions.
At first, I created the variety show idea as a break from the tried and true Broadway productions of the past because I thought it would be easier. I was wrong. Giving up control of
the production to a group of high school students is scary. But it is also incredibly rewarding.
CAM'S GOT TALENT was created by the students that are performing it, start to finish. The songs are not original, but the ideas are.

4. You will enjoy it even if you don't know anyone in it! Come and watch some of the best
high school talent you'll see anywhere. You won't be sorry.

5. And thank you for giving me such great kids to work with!

Mrs. Nichols

Defining All-State Success

2007-10-22T07:20:00.001-07:00

On October 21, seven hard working potential All-State singers traveled to Atlantic to audition for the All-State Chorus. Two were chosen, along with one alternate. Congratulations to Kelsey, Colton, and Riley, our alternate.
Some may ask why I put so much time and energy into preparing students for these brutal auditions when there is so much competition. These are my thoughts. My goal for each student that enters my program is that I can help them to reach their musical potential, whatever that is.
Maybe they simply need to learn to sing on pitch. Maybe they want to learn to excel at singing on a stage. Maybe they want to sing in a college choir someday. My job is to identify their strengths, assess their potential, and push them to excel! Preparing for All-State is all part of that process. For some, it will be remembered as a huge success of their high school years. For others, they will fondly remember the preparation process: learning college-level pieces with like-minded musicians. They will know the feeling of accomplishment that comes with working hard and being well-prepared. But they may never know what it is like to sing in the All-State choir. This does NOT make them a bad singer! This just makes them a student who is striving for excellence in music, going down the road to reaching his/her potential as a high school musician. I am so proud of ALL the students that auditioned for All-State last Saturday. Their time, their commitment, their love of music, their hard work has paid off because they have grown. My hats go off to: Makaye, Lucas, Jenna, and Cassidy in addition to the ones that were chosen. Well done.

CAM'S GOT TALENT!

2007-10-01T06:58:00.000-07:00

Yes, CAM'S GOT TALENT! The Soup Supper Coronation performance proved that and now we are rolling into Variety Show preparation.
I have to admit, it's great to have Homecoming behind us for several reasons. GO COUGARS!
What a great game.
Ok, back to the variety show. Does anyone out there have a video recording of any episode of America's Got Talent from last summer? or even part of one?? This would be very helpful to us if you do. Please contact me at the school if you can help out with this.
I can't let out all of the secrets, but you'll be excited to know that one of the favorite acts from past variety shows will be making a return appearance this year! AND......let's just say I'm looking for a lion costume, a sasquatch costume, and a Samba shirt! We also have three judges and a buzzer, a wild and crazy host, and a line up of acts that will keep you entertained and laughing.
Tickets will be available soon at the four school buildings. Don't miss it!

Mrs. Nichols

Variety Show Beginnings

2007-08-15T13:17:00.001-07:00

Here is an idea of where we will be starting when we begin to create the Variety Show.
It would help if you want to do some research at the AGT website: http://www.nbc.com/Americas_Got_Talent/
Come with ideas on the first day of class!!
If you want to see this graphic organizer a little larger, hold down the control button and use 2 fingers on the mouse to zoom in.
Mrs. Nichols

Men's Ensemble to Ames

2007-05-11T09:47:00.000-07:00

The CAM High School Men's Ensemble traveled to ISU at Ames on May 8 to perform at the Iowa Choral Director's Outstanding Performance Recital. The day was beautiful and the singing was great! Other than the fact that Mrs. Nichols had a slight handicap caused by a hot mower radiator, the performances were top notch. Thatcher (who also received an Outstanding Performance Award) performed his solos to a very appreciative crowd in the Choir Room, while the Men's Ensemble sang in the Music Hall Auditorium. We enjoyed hearing other top performers from all over the state. We also enjoyed dining at Hickory Park, where the young men ordered dessert first! A big thank you goes to the parents who came to support us, and the ones who couldn't come but sent their good wishes! I also really appreciate Dave and Annette Kruse, who answered my frantic plea for drivers Monday night after the mower incident. You guys are great!

I was very proud of our group on Tuesday. They represented our school very well and should be congratulated when you see them! I hope to see you at the Awards Concert on May 17!

Mrs. Nichols

Successful Day at Contest

2007-04-17T07:19:00.000-07:00

CAM Vocal Music students had a great day in Manning last Saturday at State Solo and Ensemble Contest. After three months of dedicated work, the students were rewarded for their efforts by receiving eleven Division One ratings, seven Division Two ratings, and one Division Three rating. Pictured above is the Chamber Choir, which received a Division One rating. (not present for picture- Haley McMartin).
Some information about the guidelines given to the judges might be helpful for you to understand these ratings. Judges are instructed to give 25-40% Division One ratings, which are outstanding in every detail. They are expected to give 40-55% Division Two ratings, which are defined as excellent performances with minor defects. Division Three (10-25%) ratings are good performances which lack finesse, interpretation, or other essential qualities necessary for a higher rating. It is also interesting to consider the fact that all of my students are required to participate in contest. They can choose how many events to enter, but everyone participates. I don't just choose my best students to go to contest, as most schools do. We have very talented students and we work very hard!
That being said, I want to make sure that you understand that I would have been happy with our day on Saturday even if the judges had not been as appreciative. The students have worked very hard, grown musically, learned about singing as an ensemble and about striving for excellence in their musical performances. My goals for contest for them are that they are as prepared as they can be, that they grow, and that they do their best. I was proud of them in all of these areas.
Since I began teaching in 1993, I have received only two "Best of Center" awards.....until this year! Each judge is allowed to choose the best performance they heard all day in their center. We were honored to receive two of these awards: Thatcher Hilyard for his solo; and the Men's Ensemble. These men will be invited to go to ISU in Ames on May 8 for the Outstanding Performance Recital. It will be a fun day of traveling, performing, and eating at Hickory Park! The recital is an informal, come and go affair where all of the "Best of Center" award winners will be performing. We can listen to several events, but no one is expected to listen to everyone, as the program will last all day. More information will be coming about the schedule, and parents are invited to attend if they want to.
I also want to mention another honor that has been less publicized. Receiving a perfect score at contest happens rarely. It is also rare that someone receives a perfect score and is NOT selected as the "Best of Center." Haley McMartin was awarded a perfect score for her performance of "American Lullaby" and "Habanera" from Carmen. Good work, Haley!!
Thank you so much to the parents and friends who followed us around at contest! It was great to have a fan club and to see familiar faces when we performed. It was also good to have extra people to point the way when I got disoriented, hold music when I was overloaded, and pick up ballots for me when I needed to be on the road to see my son perform in West Omaha!!
(I made it, by the way. Thanks, Dianna!!) Thanks also to Annette Kruse, who does such a wonderful job of accompanying the Chamber choir for us. We are going to miss her next year!
We switched gears quickly yesterday and started learning choreography for our Awards Concert on May 17. Thanks to all the kids who worked hard dancing last night until 9:00! And many thanks to Paige Dinkla for designing the choreography and teaching it to us!
The Awards concert will feature selections from the following musicals: "Wicked", "Phantom of the Opera", and "High School Musical". See you there!

Welcome to the CAM Vocal blog!

2007-03-09T10:33:00.000-08:00

Hello music fans, parents, students, and whoever else finds us here. This will blog will hopefully evolve into an interactive place where information can be dispersed and questions can be answered. In the future, I hope to post pictures, video clips, calendar items, etc. For right now, I am simply providing a forum for communication. So let me know you are out there and let's talk!
Mrs. Nichols