The Sound of Music: Microphones and Amplification for Choir Class
My students need microphones and a speaker so that we can rehearse for programs in our classroom. Additionally, we perform at many community service events and need to transport a small sound system and microphones.
My singers come from diverse backgrounds and attend a large urban high school of more than 3,800 students. More than 60 percent of our students qualify for free or reduced-price lunch.
Approximately 30% of our school are English language learners (ESL), including a large refugee population.
Approximately 25% of my students have special needs with an individual instruction plan. Many students are not able to pay choir fees or provide their own supplies due to finances. As teachers, we strive to provide almost everything that the choir students will need for performances so that all 425 singers can participate with pride.
Many of the students have language barriers, making it hard to communicate with parents regarding costume needs. Although we have great parent support, it is not possible for parents to pay or donate all the funds needed to train and equip a choral program with more than 425 singers.
Our choirs provide a community and global connection for students. My students are very proud of their performances and want to look and sound their best on stage.
My Project
My Choral students need sound amplification when they are go to community events to perform and also in the classroom as we rehearse for choir programs. My 200 plus choral students share their love of singing by performing at Retirement Centers, pre-schools, festivals, fairs and athletic events. By giving mini-concerts in small venues the choristers are able to improve and enhance their performance skills as well as share the joy of music making with those who are less fortunate.
Sound reinforcement must be portable as we often travel by bus or walk to performances and Blue tooth capacity is very helpful as we have accompaniment on MP3 files.
Multiple inputs for sound reinforcement will allow the students to sing duets and solos and also accompany singing on various instruments. By rehearsing in class with a sound system, singers will learn proper microphone techniques such as how to use a microphone to obtain sound effects and how to properly hold a microphone so that is doesn't detract from their performance. Students in the choir and audience will be able to hear the soloist with sound reinforcement rather that the soloist straining to be heard. The singers will all improve their skills as we will have opportunities for all choir members to sing solos using our sound system as well practice amplification best practices. Students will be able to schedule mini performances at school events with small ensembles due to the result of this grant.
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As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Mrs. C. and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
