ideas for chorus for 8th graders on the stage singing

Lemon

2 min read

·

02-02-2025

1

0

Share

Ideas for an 8th-Grade Chorus Performance on Stage

Choosing the right chorus for an 8th-grade performance requires consideration of the students' vocal abilities, the overall theme, and the desired impact. Here are some ideas, categorized for easier selection, along with suggestions for enhancing the performance:

I. Upbeat & Energetic Choices:

• Pop Anthems with a Twist: Instead of straightforward covers, consider arranging popular songs in a unique style. A gospel-infused pop song, a jazz arrangement of a current hit, or a world-music interpretation of a classic pop tune can showcase versatility and creativity. Think along the lines of "Happy" by Pharrell Williams (Gospel arrangement), or a contemporary pop song reimagined with a Latin beat.

• Musical Theatre Medley: Select high-energy numbers from popular musicals like High School Musical, Hamilton (carefully chosen selections), or Wicked. This allows for individual solos or smaller group performances within the larger chorus, adding dynamism.

• Original Composition: Commissioning an original piece specifically tailored to the vocal range and abilities of the 8th graders offers a unique and memorable experience. This shows off the students’ collaborative talents and provides a sense of ownership.

II. Thought-Provoking & Emotional Pieces:

• Civil Rights Movement Anthems: Songs like "We Shall Overcome" or "Oh, Freedom" are powerful choices that resonate with themes of social justice and perseverance. These require strong emotional delivery and careful arrangement to avoid sounding preachy.

• Songs about Nature and the Environment: Choosing songs that celebrate the beauty of nature or highlight environmental concerns can be both beautiful and relevant. These can be arranged with harmonies that reflect the natural world's soundscapes.

• Folk Songs with Modern Arrangements: Classic folk songs can be re-imagined with contemporary instrumentation and vocal arrangements. This balances tradition with modern sensibilities, appealing to a broader audience.

III. Technically Challenging Choices (For Advanced Choirs):

• Baroque or Renaissance Choruses: Introduce the students to choral masterworks from the past, like selections from Handel's Messiah (carefully selected sections) or works by William Byrd. This offers a challenging but rewarding experience for advanced singers.

• Classical Choruses with Modern Arrangements: Adapt classical choral pieces to incorporate contemporary elements, offering a blend of traditional beauty and modern flair.

• A Capella Arrangements: Challenging yet rewarding, a capella arrangements showcase vocal blending and control without instrumental accompaniment. This requires excellent technique and vocal precision.

Enhancing the Performance:

• Staging and Choreography: Simple yet effective choreography can add visual interest and emphasize the emotional content of the song. Consider incorporating lighting and stage design to complement the music.

• Costuming: Costumes can enhance the overall aesthetic and help establish the mood of the performance. Consider the theme and style of the music when selecting costumes.

• Multimedia elements: Incorporate projected visuals or video clips that complement the music. This can add depth and context to the performance.

Remember to prioritize choosing music that is appropriate for the students' vocal abilities and maturity level. Engage the students in the selection process to foster ownership and enthusiasm. With careful planning and execution, the 8th-grade chorus performance can be a truly memorable and impactful event.