Keystone State Boychoir Group Overview
Advanced Apprentices
Advanced Apprentices are boys who have had some singing experience. They are typically 4th graders who are 9 years of age; however, boys who are younger or older can be placed in the Advanced Apprentice group depending on level of singer-musicianship, motor-skill development, and emotional/ social maturity. A young man typically spends one semester as an Advanced Apprentice, but more time is possible depending on progress.
Rehearsals: While an Advanced Apprentice, a young man continues to develop basic singer- musicianship. The following areas are covered and reinforced:
- Speaking voice vs. singing voice
- Unison singing
- Rounds
- Partner songs
- Two-part singing
- Shallow breathing vs. deep breathing
- Kodaly hand signs
- “Ta-Ti” rhythm reading
- Sight Singing (sol-mi-la-do)
- Performance face
- Body singing
- Sitting and standing posture
- Bowing
- Heavy hands
- Vowels and Consonants
- International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA)
Rehearsals: The Advanced Apprentices rehearse on Mondays from 6:00 to 7:30pm, along with the Trainers & Beginning Apprentices, and one Saturday a month from 9:00 am until 11:00 am. The Saturday rehearsal gives the Trainers & Apprentices an opportunity to sing with the Jacketed Trebles (members of the Concert Choir). A typical rehearsal includes a warm-up, voice-building, singer-musicianship, and singing. On Saturdays there is also snack and social time for the boys to get to know their fellow choristers.
Performances: The Advanced Apprentices perform several times in a season, including the KSB annual Holiday and Spring Concerts, the CY Treble Concert, and other local concerts. Advanced Apprentices and their parents are encouraged to attend KSB performances that are open to the public as audience members. Boys often learn what is expected of them by watching KSB in concert. Attending performances also reminds an Advanced Apprentice what he is working towards: earning his KSB Jacket.
Absence / Make-up Policy: Advanced Apprentices are not expected to make-up rehearsals.
Concert Tour: Advanced Apprentices are not eligible to participate in the KSB annual concert tour.
Keystone State Boychoir is a member-choir of Commonwealth Youthchoirs, Inc.