LASSITER CHORUS HANDBOOK

Chelsea Green
Director of Choirs
Lassiter High School

Office: (678) 494-7863

Welcome to Lassiter Chorus

Welcome to another exciting year of music-making! Whether this is your student's very first choir experience or their final year before graduation, I am thrilled that you have chosen to be part of the Lassiter Chorus family.

At Lassiter, chorus is much more than another class on a student's schedule. It is a place where friendships are formed, confidence is built, leadership is developed, and students discover what they are capable of accomplishing together. Every rehearsal, every concert, and every performance is an opportunity to grow—not only as musicians, but as responsible, compassionate, and resilient young adults.

My mission is simple:

To pursue excellence through music while creating a welcoming community where every student feels valued, challenged, and inspired.

Each day, students learn far more than notes and rhythms. They learn discipline through preparation, responsibility through commitment, teamwork through collaboration, and perseverance through hard work. These lessons extend far beyond the rehearsal room and help prepare students for success in college, careers, and life.

The Lassiter Chorus has earned a reputation for musical excellence throughout Georgia, but our greatest accomplishment is not measured by trophies or ratings. It is measured by the students who walk through our doors each day and leave as more confident leaders, better musicians, and better people.

This handbook is designed to answer many of the questions families have throughout the school year. Inside you will find information about performances, grading, uniforms, communication, volunteer opportunities, travel, leadership, and everything needed for a successful year in chorus.

Please take time to read through the handbook together as a family. Understanding our expectations early allows everyone to enjoy a smooth and rewarding year.

Thank you for trusting me with your student. I am honored to be part of their high school journey and look forward to creating incredible music together this year.

Welcome to Lassiter Chorus—I’m so glad you're here.

Chelsea Green
Choral Director
Lassiter High School

Mission

The Lassiter Chorus exists to inspire students through exceptional musical experiences while cultivating leadership, integrity, creativity, and lifelong appreciation for the arts.

I believe every student has something valuable to contribute, regardless of previous musical experience. Through daily rehearsals, performances, service, and collaboration, students discover that excellence is achieved not through individual talent alone, but through dedication to a common goal.

Why Chorus?

Students join chorus for many different reasons. Some have sung for years, while others are discovering their voices for the first time. Regardless of experience, every student has a place here.

Participation in chorus provides opportunities to:

Develop confidence through performance
Build lasting friendships
Strengthen teamwork and communication skills
Improve musicianship and vocal technique
Explore leadership opportunities
Travel and perform throughout Georgia and beyond
Earn recognition through honor choirs, All-State, and leadership positions
Become part of a supportive community that celebrates every student's success

The memories created through music often become some of the most meaningful experiences of high school. I am excited to help every student discover what is possible when they commit themselves to something bigger than themselves.

About Lassiter Chorus

A Tradition of Excellence

The Lassiter Chorus Program has long been recognized as one of Georgia's outstanding high school choral programs. Built upon a tradition of musical excellence, the program provides students with meaningful performance opportunities, exceptional music education, and a supportive community where every singer can thrive.

Each year, Lassiter Chorus students perform throughout the community, participate in statewide festivals and evaluations, audition for honor choirs, and represent Lassiter High School with professionalism and pride. While we celebrate awards and accomplishments, our greatest source of pride is the culture we have created—a culture where students encourage one another, work toward common goals, and discover the joy of making music together.

Regardless of previous experience, every student who enters the rehearsal room has the opportunity to grow as a musician, leader, and person.

The chorus room is a place where students are challenged to think critically, perform confidently, and strive for excellence every day. Success is measured not only by ratings or trophies, but by the friendships formed, the confidence gained, and the lasting impact music has on each student's life.

Philosophy

Music is one of the few disciplines that combines creativity, collaboration, discipline, communication, and problem-solving every single day. Students learn to listen, adapt, lead, follow, and work toward a common goal while developing skills that extend far beyond the classroom.

In chorus, every voice matters. Each singer has a responsibility to prepare individually while supporting the success of the entire ensemble. When every student contributes their very best, remarkable things happen.

Rehearsals are built around three expectations:

Work Hard.

Support Others.

Be Consistent.

A Place to Belong

One of the greatest strengths of the Lassiter Chorus Program is its sense of community.

Students from every grade level, background, and interest come together each day with a shared purpose. It is common to find chorus students who are also athletes, actors, dancers, artists, student leaders, honor students, and members of numerous other organizations.

The friendships formed in chorus often extend well beyond high school. Older students mentor younger singers, leadership students model professionalism, and every member plays an important role in creating a positive and welcoming environment.

My hope is that every student who walks into the chorus room feels challenged, encouraged, and accepted.

Whether your goal is to sing professionally, become a music educator, or simply continue enjoying music throughout your life, I am excited to be part of your journey.

ENSEMBLES

Ninth Grade Treble Choir (6th Period)

The Ninth Grade Treble Choir is designed specifically for students beginning their high school choral experience. Throughout the year, students develop the foundational skills necessary for long-term success in the Lassiter Chorus Program. Daily instruction emphasizes healthy vocal technique, music literacy, ear training, beginning music theory, and sight-singing while introducing students to the expectations and traditions of the program. Equally important, students learn what it means to be a dependable ensemble member. They develop rehearsal discipline, responsibility, teamwork, and confidence as they transition into high school and prepare for future placement within the program.

JV Treble Choir (5th Period)

The JV Treble Choir is an advanced treble ensemble consisting of students in grades 10–12 who continue developing their musicianship through challenging three- and four-part choral literature. Members explore a wide variety of musical styles while refining vocal independence, tone quality, musical expression, and ensemble performance skills. Students in this ensemble continue building the musical foundation necessary for future leadership and advanced performance opportunities within the Lassiter Chorus Program.

Tenor-Bass Choir (4th Period)

The Lassiter Tenor-Bass Choir quickly established itself as a dynamic and highly successful performing group. Comprised of students in grades 9–12 with a wide range of musical backgrounds, the ensemble emphasizes healthy vocal production, confidence, teamwork, and musical excellence. Members perform a diverse repertoire while developing strong musicianship and vocal independence. In just a short time, the Tenor-Bass Choir has earned Superior ratings at LGPE and was selected to perform at the Georgia Music Educators Association In-Service Conference—an extraordinary honor that reflects the ensemble's rapid growth and commitment to excellence. The culture of the ensemble is built on encouragement, camaraderie, and a genuine desire to help one another succeed.

Varsity Treble Choir (3rd Period)

The Varsity Treble Choir is Lassiter's premier advanced treble ensemble. Students are selected through an audition process and demonstrate exceptional musicianship, dedication, and leadership. The ensemble performs advanced choral literature representing a variety of musical periods, cultures, and languages while continually refining artistic expression and vocal excellence. Members consistently participate in honor choirs, All-State Chorus, leadership positions, and numerous extracurricular musical opportunities. The Varsity Treble Choir proudly represents Lassiter High School through performances both within the community and across the state.

Choraliers (ASE)

Choraliers is Lassiter High School's auditioned mixed ensemble and serves as one of the program's flagship performing groups. Comprised of advanced soprano, alto, tenor, and bass singers, Choraliers performs the most challenging repertoire in the department and serves as musical ambassadors for Lassiter High School. Students are expected to demonstrate exceptional musicianship, professionalism, leadership, and commitment while maintaining the highest standards of rehearsal preparation and performance excellence. In addition to school concerts, Choraliers frequently performs for community events, honor performances, and special invitations throughout the year.

Chamber Ensembles (ASE)

Students may also audition for smaller vocal ensembles, including trios, quartets, and other specialty groups as determined by the needs of the program. These ensembles perform advanced literature and frequently represent Lassiter Chorus at community performances, school functions, and competitive events. Participation requires additional rehearsals outside the regular school day and a strong commitment to individual preparation.

GETTING STARTED

Welcome to the Lassiter Chorus family! The beginning of the school year comes with a lot of information, forms, and deadlines. This section is designed to help your family get started quickly so your student is prepared for a successful year.

Rather than searching through emails or paper handouts, nearly everything your family needs can be found on the Lassiter Chorus website—from concert calendars and payments to forms, volunteer opportunities, and student resources. If you ever have a question, the website is the best place to start. If you still need assistance, please don't hesitate to reach out. We're always happy to help.

We look forward to an incredible year of music-making together!

Chorus Store & Student Bundles

To make the beginning of the school year easier, the Lassiter Chorus website offers several new student bundles that combine the most commonly purchased items into one package.

Bundles may include items such as:

Annual chorus dues
Uniform components
Chorus polo
Spirit wear
Additional performance items

Purchasing a bundle saves families time and ensures students have everything they need for the school year without placing multiple orders. Individual items are also available for purchase if a bundle does not fit your family's needs

Student Chorus Dues

Every student enrolled in a Lassiter Chorus class is expected to pay $150 in annual chorus dues.

These dues help offset the costs associated with participating in the chorus program and allow every student to have a high-quality musical experience throughout the school year.

Student dues help provide:

Printed music and music licensing
Accompanists and collaborative pianists
Guest clinicians and adjudicators
Concert production expenses
Performance transportation
Classroom supplies
Sheet music organization and music library maintenance
Performance rights and educational resources
Student awards and recognition
Technology that enhances instruction
Classroom equipment and repairs

Because chorus is a performance-based class, these expenses are significantly greater than those of many traditional academic courses. Student dues allow us to provide meaningful musical experiences without asking families to pay additional fees or fundraise throughout the year.

Dues are payable through the Lassiter Chorus website.

Financial Assistance

We believe every student deserves the opportunity to participate in chorus, regardless of financial circumstances. If your family is experiencing financial hardship, please contact Mrs. Green privately. Financial assistance, payment plans, and scholarship opportunities are available.

No student will ever be denied participation because of financial need.

Uniform Information

One of the hallmarks of an outstanding performing ensemble is professionalism. A unified concert appearance allows audiences to focus on the music rather than the individual performer and demonstrates pride in both the ensemble and Lassiter High School. Students are expected to arrive at every performance wearing the complete required uniform.

Uniforms should always be:

Clean
Pressed
Properly fitted

Students should avoid excessive jewelry or accessories unless specifically approved for a performance. Hair should be neat and presented in a manner appropriate for a formal concert setting. All students in need of formal uniforms or any new pieces of their uniform are required to attend Uniform Fitting Night in August. Uniforms can be purchased on the chorus website. Sometimes used uniforms are available for purchase, please inquire with LCBA if you are interested in purchasing a gently used uniform at a discounted price.

Formal Performance Attire

Formal Dress Ensemble

Lassiter Chorus concert dress
Black dress shoes (flats are most commonly worn)

Dresses should be hemmed to fall approximately one inch above the floor while wearing concert shoes.

Tuxedo Ensemble

Black tuxedo jacket
Black button up shirt
Lassiter Chorus tie
Black dress shoes
Black dress socks

Concert Black

Certain ensembles or performances may require the concert black uniform. This is the typical uniform for International Tour Choir

Black performance top
Black dress slacks or long skirt
Black dress shoes
Black socks

Informal Performance Attire

Some performances, community events, and outreach concerts require informal concert attire.

Students will typically wear:

Official Lassiter Chorus Black Polo
Black pants or blue jeans (as directed)
Closed-toe shoes

Students only need to purchase 1 Black Chorus Polo, which may be used throughout their time in the program.

Stay Connected

Communication is one of the keys to a successful school year. While announcements are often made during class, students and parents are responsible for staying informed by regularly checking the following resources.

Lassiter Chorus Website

The website serves as the central hub for all chorus information. Families are encouraged to bookmark the website and check it regularly throughout the school year.

Families can access:

Calendar of events
Concert information
Uniform ordering
Online payments
Forms and documents
LCBA information
Student resources
Volunteer opportunities
News and announcements

CTLS Parent

CTLS Parent is the primary method of communication between the director and families. Questions are always welcome, and every effort will be made to respond as quickly as possible - within 48 hours - during normal school business hours.

GroupMe for Announcements

Students and parents are encouraged to join the Chorus GroupMe GroupMe is used for brief announcements, reminders, schedule changes, and time-sensitive information.While GroupMe is an excellent communication tool, families should continue checking CTLS Parent, email and the chorus website for detailed information.

Social Media

Follow Lassiter Chorus on social media to celebrate student accomplishments, concert highlights, important reminders, and exciting events happening throughout the year. Social media is intended to showcase the incredible work of our students and help keep our community connected.

CLASSROOM EXPECTATIONS

The chorus room belongs to every member of the program. Students are expected to treat the space with pride by:

Returning chairs and equipment when finished.
Leaving rehearsal areas cleaner than they were found.
Respecting pianos and classroom technology.
Reporting damaged equipment promptly.
Taking care of uniforms and music.

Entering the Choir Room

A great rehearsal begins with a great routine. When you enter the choir room, place your backpack along the wall or behind the risers—bags should never be brought onto the risers. Retrieve your choir folder, put your phone away in your backpack or in the designated phone storage, and check the board for the day's bell ringer assignment. Begin working immediately so rehearsal can start on time. Please enter the classroom calmly by walking at all times—running, yelling, and screaming are not appropriate in the choir room.

Food & Drinks

Water is the only beverage permitted on the rehearsal risers. All other drinks and food should be consumed in the designated areas along the sides of the choir room. Gum is not permitted at any time during rehearsal. Please dispose of all trash before leaving class and help keep our rehearsal space clean for everyone.

Music & Folders

Music is one of our most valuable classroom resources. Students are responsible for maintaining their assigned music throughout the year.

Each piece should include:

Student name
Measure numbers
Director markings
Musical notes written neatly in pencil

Music should never be folded, written on in ink, or intentionally damaged. Students are financially responsible for replacing lost or excessively damaged music.

Cell Phone Policy

Lassiter High School maintains a school-wide no cell phone policy during instructional time. Phones must remain in backpacks or may be stored in the phone storage lockers beside the chorus folders.

REHEARSAL CULTURE

At Lassiter Chorus, rehearsal room is a place where students feel challenged, supported, and inspired. Students are encouraged to ask questions, take musical risks, and learn from mistakes. Every rehearsal is a chance to improve, and progress is achieved through consistent effort—not perfection. We celebrate hard work, positive attitudes, and students who encourage those around them.

The culture of Lassiter Chorus is built on respect, responsibility, and a commitment to excellence. Every student plays an important role in creating a positive and productive rehearsal environment.

Be Present

Attend class consistently, arrive on time, and be mentally engaged. Every rehearsal matters, and every voice contributes to the ensemble.

Be Prepared

Bring your music, a pencil, and any required materials each day. Come ready to sing, learn, and participate.

Be Respectful

Treat classmates, teachers, guests, and our rehearsal space with kindness and professionalism. Encourage others and contribute to a positive classroom culture.

Be Engaged

Sing with confidence, participate fully, and take risks. Growth happens when everyone is actively involved.

Take Pride

Care for your music, keep the choir room clean, and represent Lassiter Chorus with integrity both on and off campus.

ATTENDANCE & TARDINESS

Chorus is a performance-based class and every rehearsal is a collaborative group effort. Each rehearsal depends on every singer being present and contributing to the ensemble.

Students are expected to:

Arrive on time for every rehearsal.
Be in their assigned seat with music and materials ready when class begins.
Schedule appointments outside of chorus whenever possible. Missing rehearsal impacts not only the individual student, but also the entire ensemble.
Notify the director in advance if a late arrival or early dismissal is unavoidable.

Please remember: Repeated tardiness disrupts rehearsal, reduces valuable instructional time, and affects the progress of the entire choir. Students who arrive late may receive consequences in accordance with the chorus grading policy and Lassiter High School attendance procedures.

Hall Passes

Students must use the designated lanyard hall passes located by the classroom door whenever leaving the choir room during class. Whether you are visiting the restroom, another classroom, or the front office, you are expected to take a pass with you and return it promptly upon your return. Please limit trips outside the classroom so rehearsal time is not interrupted.

Lunch Period

Students enrolled in a lunch-period chorus class should pick up their lunch before reporting to the chorus room. Lunch should be eaten promptly upon arrival, and students are expected to be on the risers and ready to rehearse no later than 10 minutes after the class period begins.

Students who need repeated reminders to finish lunch and report to the risers will be considered tardy. Excessive tardiness from lunch disrupts rehearsal and reduces valuable instructional time for the entire ensemble. Students are expected to use their lunch time responsibly so rehearsal can begin promptly and everyone is ready to make music together.

Restroom Procedures

Students are encouraged to use the restroom before coming to chorus whenever possible. Emergencies happen, and students may request permission when necessary. To minimize interruptions, students should choose an appropriate time that does not interfere with active rehearsal whenever possible.

School policies regarding restroom use during the instructional day will always be followed.

Illness During Rehearsal

If a student is feeling ill, they should notify the director before rehearsal begins. Students who are temporarily unable to sing are still expected to participate by:

Following the score
Taking rehearsal notes
Completing written activities
Listening actively
Participating in discussions

If a student is too ill to participate in any aspect of rehearsal, families should consider whether the student should remain at school that day.

CONCERTS & PERFORMANCES

Concerts are the culmination of weeks of preparation and represent the most important assessments in our curriculum.

Every rehearsal is designed to prepare students for successful performances. By the time students walk on stage, they are not simply presenting a concert—they are demonstrating the musical skills, discipline, and teamwork they have developed throughout the rehearsal process.

Each performance is an opportunity to represent Lassiter High School, our community, and one another with professionalism and pride.

For that reason, attendance at performances is considered an essential component of the curriculum.

Performance Expectations

Students are expected to:

Arrive at the designated call time.
Wear the required concert attire.
Remain for the entire performance unless dismissed by the director.
Demonstrate respectful and professional behavior throughout the event.
Encourage fellow ensemble members and contribute positively to the performance experience.

Attendance at Performances

All performances listed on the official chorus calendar are considered required curricular events. Because performance dates are published well in advance, families should make every effort to avoid scheduling conflicts whenever possible. Students are expected to communicate any known conflicts as early as possible.

Whether an absence is excused or unexcused, all students are responsible for completing a comparable make-up assignment to earn credit for the missed performance. Because a live ensemble performance cannot be fully replicated, the make-up assignment is designed to assess similar musical skills but does not replace the experience of performing with the choir.

Students who miss one or more required performances will also find it difficult to earn a Varsity Letter in Chorus, as concerts account for a significant portion of the points required for lettering. Consistent participation in performances is an essential expectation of membership in the Lassiter Chorus program.

Excused Absences

The following circumstances are generally considered excused when appropriate communication and documentation are provided:

Personal illness
Serious illness or emergency involving an immediate family member
Death in the immediate family
Religious observances
School-sponsored events approved by administration
Other circumstances approved by the director

Unexcused Absences

Examples of unexcused absences may include:

Work schedules
Transportation arrangements
Social events
Forgetting about a performance
Choosing another activity without prior approval

Every concert absence is considered individually, with final decisions made at the discretion of the director.

Repeated unexcused absences may also affect eligibility for leadership positions, honor ensembles, performance tours, solos, and future ensemble placement. The goal is never to punish students, but to emphasize the importance of honoring commitments made to fellow ensemble members.

Concert Make-Up Assignments

When a concert absence occurs, the director will provide an alternate assessment designed to measure the musical objectives of the missed performance.

Depending on the performance, make-up assignments may include:

Individual performance assessments
Recorded singing evaluations
Written musical reflections
Music research projects
Program note analyses

Assignments will vary based on the performance missed and should be completed by the established deadline. Students are encouraged to communicate promptly so an appropriate alternative assessment can be arranged.

All make-up work will be located in CTLS.

GRADING & ASSESSMENT

Students are evaluated on both the process of learning and the final performance. Success in chorus is not determined solely by natural ability, but by consistent preparation, participation, effort, and growth. Every rehearsal, assignment, and assessment is designed to help students become stronger musicians while preparing them for successful performances throughout the year.

Grade Categories

Performance Evaluations — 40%

Performance evaluations are the culminating demonstrations of learning and may include:

Concert Performances: Fall, Holiday, Cluster, and Spring
Large Group Performance Evaluation (LGPE)

Students are expected to attend all required performances, arrive prepared, wear the appropriate concert attire, and demonstrate professional performance behavior.

Rehearsal Techniques — 20%

This weekly grade category includes:

Preparation (music, pencil, materials)
Rehearsal etiquette
Engagement and effort
Attendance and punctuality
Respect for classmates and the learning environment

Individual Performance Assessments — 15%

Throughout the year, students will complete individual singing assessments using CTLS or MusicFirst. These assessments provide opportunities for students to demonstrate individual vocal growth and receive personalized feedback.

Students enrolled in auditioned ensembles may also complete periodic in-class singing assessments, either individually or in small groups. These assessments allow the director to evaluate vocal technique, musicianship, part preparation, and overall musical growth in a rehearsal setting.

Classroom Assignments — 15%

Students will complete a variety of assignments that reinforce musicianship and support classroom instruction, including:

Music Theory Quizzes
Listening Activities & Ear Training Quizzes
Music Appreciation Unit (Western Music History, Vocal Jazz, Folk Music, World Music, Opera, etc.)
Digital Assignments and Reflections

Final Exam — 10%

The final exam serves as a comprehensive assessment of the musical concepts and performance skills developed throughout the semester. The assessment typically includes written, performance, and reflective components.

Late Work

Students are encouraged to submit assignments on time whenever possible. Because many chorus assignments directly support upcoming performances, late work loses instructional value as rehearsals progress. Late assignments may receive partial credit and must be submitted before the close of the current concert cycle unless otherwise approved. Students experiencing extenuating circumstances should communicate with Mrs. Green as soon as possible.

Choir opportunites

One of the greatest benefits of participating in Lassiter Chorus is the opportunity to extend learning beyond the school day. Students are encouraged to challenge themselves by participating in additional musical experiences that foster artistic growth, leadership, and service. These opportunities are optional, but they often become some of the most memorable experiences of a student's high school career.

All-State Chorus

The Georgia All-State Chorus is the highest individual honor available to high school choral students in Georgia. Each fall, interested students may audition through a rigorous statewide process that evaluates vocal technique, musicianship, scales, sight-singing, and solo performance. Preparing for All-State requires dedication and consistent practice, but students receive extensive support through sectionals, individual coaching opportunities, and classroom instruction. Students selected for All-State represent Lassiter High School among Georgia's finest young musicians. Participation requires additional rehearsals, independent practice, and attendance at all audition and performance dates established by GMEA.

GMEA All-State Chorus Chorus

February 18-20, 2027

Location: Classic Center | Athens, GA

Click HERE for ASC Audition Materials

ASC Audition #1 - Saturday, November 7, 2026 | Woodland High School (Cartersville)
ASC Audition #2 - Friday, January 22, 2027 | Allatoona High School (Acworth)

District Honor Chorus

Each November, students have the opportunity to be nominated for the GMEA District 12 Honor Chorus, one of Georgia's premier regional honor choir events. Students who are selected rehearse and perform alongside outstanding singers from across Cobb County under the direction of a distinguished guest conductor. District Honor Chorus provides students with the opportunity to perform advanced choral literature, strengthen their musicianship, and represent Lassiter High School among the region's finest young singers.

GMEA District 12 Honor Chorus

November 16-17, 2026

Location: Lassiter High School

International Performance Tours

Traveling with the Lassiter Chorus is about far more than sightseeing. It is an opportunity to experience new cultures, perform in historic venues, build lifelong friendships, and gain a broader understanding of the world through music. Students return home with greater confidence, independence, and appreciation for people and traditions beyond their own community.

Whether performing in a centuries-old cathedral, exploring a medieval village, or sharing music with audiences from another country, these experiences remind students that music is a universal language capable of connecting people across cultures and generations.

Over the years, Lassiter Chorus has proudly represented our school and community through performances in:

🇦🇹 Austria

Vienna
Salzburg

🇨🇿 Czech Republic

Prague

🇫🇷 France

Paris

🇬🇷 Greece

Athens

🇮🇹 Italy

Rome
Venice
Florence
Milan
Verona

🇪🇸 Spain

Barcelona
Girona

Each international tour combines meaningful performance opportunities with cultural exploration, creating memories and friendships that last a lifetime.

Conference Performances

Conference performance ensembles are selected through a competitive application process and are invited to demonstrate exemplary musicianship for an audience of music educators from across the state. These performances recognize years of dedication, artistic excellence, and a commitment to outstanding choral music-making.

Lassiter Chorus has been honored to present conference performances at state and regional music education conferences, including:

2007 - Concert Chorale | Southern ACDA Conference
2019 - Choraliers | GMEA In-Service Conference
2024 - Varsity Treble Choir | Georgia ACDA Conference
2025 - Tenor-Bass Choir | GMEA In-Service Conference

These invitations are a testament to the hard work of our students, the support of our families, and the tradition of excellence that continues to define the Lassiter Chorus Program.

Representing Lassiter Chorus

Whether performing at Lassiter High School, traveling across Georgia, or representing our community in another state or country, every student serves as an ambassador for our program.

Students are expected to:

Follow all school and district policies.
Respect chaperones, clinicians, and venue staff.
Maintain appropriate language and conduct.
Wear required attire when directed.
Follow all travel expectations and safety procedures.

Participation in extracurricular performances and tours is a privilege earned through responsible behavior and consistent commitment to the ensemble. Our reputation has been built over many years through the dedication of countless students who proudly represented Lassiter Chorus with excellence and integrity. We expect every member to continue that tradition.

Varsity Letter Opportunity

The Lassiter Chorus Varsity Letter Program recognizes students who consistently demonstrate commitment, leadership, excellence, and service throughout the school year. Unlike athletic teams that compete during one season, chorus students earn their letter through sustained participation over an entire academic year. Students accumulate points by participating in performances, rehearsals, leadership, service, musical enrichment, and other activities that strengthen both themselves and the program. The varsity letter is one of the highest honors a chorus student can earn.

Students may earn points in a variety of ways, including:

Required Program Activities

Concert performances
Large Group Performance Evaluation (LGPE)
Required sectionals

Musical Achievement

GMEA All-State Chorus & District Honor Chorus
GHSA Literary Competition
Governor's Honors Program
Private lessons
Summer music camps

Leadership

Student officers
Student mentoring
Recruitment activities

School Involvement

Attending Fine Arts performances
Supporting other Lassiter arts programs
Academic achievement
Tri-M Music Honor Society

Service

Volunteer hours
Community outreach
Special projects

An updated list of eligible activities and point values is maintained throughout the school year and is available on the chorus website. Students are responsible for submitting required documentation by published deadlines.

Letter Point Deadlines

Students should regularly submit point requests throughout the year rather than waiting until spring.Activities that require verification should include appropriate documentation, such as:

Concert programs
Event registration confirmations
Certificates
Teacher verification
Volunteer sign-in records

Requests submitted after the published deadline may not be accepted. Developing responsibility for tracking accomplishments is an important part of the lettering process.

Letters of Recommendation

Mrs. Green is happy to write letters of recommendation for students in good standing. Whether applying to colleges, universities, scholarships, music programs, leadership opportunities, or employment, students should submit requests at least two weeks before the deadline whenever possible. To assist in writing a meaningful recommendation, students should provide:

Resume or activity list
GPA (if applicable)
Awards and honors
Intended major or career goals
Deadline information
Any required submission instructions

Scholarships

Each year, the Lassiter Choral Booster Association proudly awards scholarships to graduating seniors who have demonstrated outstanding dedication to the Lassiter Chorus Program. Scholarships recognize students who have:

Demonstrated exceptional leadership.
Contributed positively to the chorus community.
Pursued musical excellence.
Served the program with integrity.
Continued their commitment to music and education.

Application information is released each spring. Selection is based on the strength of the application and established scholarship criteria.

Frequently Asked Questions

We know that families often have questions throughout the school year. Below are answers to some of the questions we receive most often. If you ever need additional assistance, please don't hesitate to contact Mrs. Green.

Is attendance at concerts required?

Yes.

Concerts, Large Group Performance Evaluation (LGPE), and other required performances are considered an extension of the classroom. They are the culminating assessments for the music studied during rehearsal and are a required part of the chorus curriculum.

Performance dates are published well in advance to allow families to plan accordingly.

What if my student becomes sick before a performance?

Please contact Mrs. Green as soon as possible.

Unexpected illnesses and family emergencies happen, and we understand that some situations are unavoidable. Communication is always appreciated and allows us to make any necessary adjustments for the ensemble.

Documentation may be requested depending on the circumstances.

Can my student miss a concert because of work, another activity, or transportation?

Students are expected to prioritize required chorus performances.

Because concert dates are released at the beginning of the school year, work schedules, appointments, transportation, vacations, and other activities should be planned around those commitments whenever possible.

If a conflict arises, families should communicate with Mrs. Green immediately. Every situation will be considered individually, but not all conflicts qualify as excused absences.

My student plays a sport or participates in another activity. Can they still be in chorus?

Absolutely.

Many Lassiter Chorus students are also involved in athletics, theatre, marching band, dance, student government, clubs, and numerous academic organizations.

We believe students should pursue multiple passions whenever possible.

Communication is essential. Students should notify the director of known conflicts as early as possible so solutions can often be found before they become problems.

Does my student have to audition?

No.

Most curricular choirs are open to students who enjoy singing and are willing to learn.

Some advanced ensembles and chamber groups require auditions to ensure appropriate placement and musical balance.

Can students participate if they have never taken chorus before?

Yes.

Students enter the Lassiter Chorus Program with many different levels of experience.

Some have participated in middle school chorus for several years, while others are singing in an organized choir for the first time.

Every student is welcomed, challenged, and supported according to their individual level of experience.

How often should students practice?

Practice expectations vary depending on the time of year and upcoming performances.

Students preparing for All-State, Honor Chorus, Literary Competition, chamber ensembles, or solos should expect additional practice outside of school.

For daily class music, students should regularly review rehearsal recordings, difficult passages, and memorization assignments to reinforce what is learned during rehearsal.

Consistent short practice sessions are far more effective than trying to learn everything the night before a performance.

What happens if my student loses music?

Music is the property of the Lassiter Chorus Program.

Students are responsible for maintaining their assigned music throughout the year.

Replacement fees may be assessed for music that is lost or damaged beyond normal use.

What if my student needs financial assistance?

We never want finances to prevent a student from participating in chorus.

Families experiencing financial hardship are encouraged to contact Mrs. Green confidentially.

Payment plans, scholarships, and financial assistance are available.

Every conversation regarding financial assistance remains confidential.

How can parents become involved?

There are many opportunities to support Lassiter Chorus.

Parents may volunteer at concerts, serve on the LCBA Board, assist with fundraising, photography, hospitality, uniforms, senior events, recruiting, website management, and many other activities throughout the year.

Whether you volunteer once or throughout the entire year, your support makes a tremendous difference.