About Choir
There are three different tracts of choir which all meet during 2nd hour:
- Beginning Choir is for any students (freshman through senior) who have never taken choir at PCHS. Fundamentals of music are taught. Homework and tests are at beginner level.
- Concert Choir is for sophomores through seniors who have taken choir at PCHS. A basic fundamental ability of reading music is expected. Homework and tests are at appropriate levels for this level of study.
- Honors Choir is for juniors and seniors only. Students who want honors credit and wish to challenge themselves should consider Honors Choir. Students must prepare and audition for ILMEA District/State Festivals and perform in choir events for IHSA Solo & Ensemble competition. They are expected to be the leaders of the choir at all choir events. Homework and tests are honors level.
All the choirs sing together at the Masses, Concerts, and special events. Students have opportunities to cantor at Masses or sing the National Anthem at school sports events. We compete at IHSA in March. Many members of the Choir are members of the Illinois Music Honors Society (ILMHS).
We go caroling in December and often go on field trips to various music events. Past field trips have included Broadway musicals such as The Lion King, Aida, Sweeney Todd, and Jekyll & Hyde; operas such as I Pagliacci at Lyric Opera of Chicago; and invited dress rehearsals at Orchestra Hall to hear the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and Chorus work.
ILMHS Requirements
The Illinois Music Honor Society was created by the Illinois Music Educators Association for middle school and high school students. Its mission is to recognize students for their academic and musical achievements, reward them for their accomplishment and service, and to inspire others to excel at music and leadership. Our requirements are:
- A 4.0 or an A average in music ensemble.
- An overall B average in other academic subjects.
- Completed one full year in a music ensemble.
- Recommendation of Director
Level 1: Honor Ensemble Participation
Students must be enrolled in their band or choir ensemble for the year; demonstrated dedication to enhancing their abilities and adding to the overall ensemble. Meet or exceed the academic requirements.
Level 2: Outstanding Service
Students must have achieved Level 1; have participated and shown a dedication to the Choir Ensemble and to their own personal performance standard for 1 academic year.
Level 3: Leadership
Students must have achieved Level 1 and Level 2 and have proven themselves to be strong performers and leaders within their section. Students who achieve Level 3 also have shown dedication to their enrolled ensemble.
Level 4: Master Musician
Students must have achieved Levels 1-3 criteria. Students who achieve Master Musician also have competed in at least 2 IMEA District Auditions or 2 IHSA solo/ensemble competitions (or any combination thereof) within the possible four years of their enrolled ensemble. Level 4 students have demonstrated high-level leadership skills, performance skills, and extended compassionate help to those who may be struggling in their enrolled ensemble.
Choir Director