JOIN THE CHORUS
GENERAL INFORMATION
The Starr’s Mill High School Choral Program serves students in grades 9–12 and is comprised of four ensembles: Bel Canto, Con-Anima Voce, Panthera Vox, and Chanticleer. The program provides a comprehensive choral experience centered on developing strong vocal technique, music literacy, sight-reading, and ensemble performance skills through daily, year-long coursework. Students engage in a wide variety of musical styles and performance experiences while growing as independent musicians and collaborative ensemble members.
PLACEMENT EXAM REQUIREMENTS & DATES
Placement Exams will be held Monday through Wednesday, March 22–24, 2027. Current Starr’s Mill High School students will complete in-class auditions, while rising 9th grade students will audition beginning at 3:20 PM at either Starr’s Mill High School or Rising Starr Middle School.
​
Makeup exams will be available for students who are unable to attend during the scheduled dates; please contact Mr. McJolly if alternative arrangements are needed. A sign-up spreadsheet will be made available as the exam dates approach.
PLACEMENT EXAM PROCESS
VOCALIZATION
Students will be vocalized by the director to assess vocal range and determine appropriate voice part placement.
SOLO
All new singers should be prepared to perform a short solo selection of their choice. Appropriate options include Happy Birthday, a show tune, or a selection from a previous choir. This is simply an opportunity to hear each student sing something familiar and comfortable.
TONAL MEMORY
Students will hear short melodic patterns and be asked to echo them using neutral syllables. This activity assesses ear training skills and the ability to accurately and quickly reproduce musical material.
SIGHT SINGING
Students will complete one sight-reading example. This portion evaluates music literacy, rehearsal strategies, and the ability to independently interpret written music. While important for placement, it is one component of the overall assessment process.
EXTRA CURRICULAR ENSEMBLE
MEN OF THE MILL (TENOR/BASS ENSEMBLE)
Starr’s Mill High School Men of the Mill is a reestablished choral ensemble, building upon a successful program from previous years. In its former iteration, the ensemble earned notable recognition, including a featured performance at the Georgia Music Educators Association Conference, along with other distinguished accomplishments.
​
This newly rechartered ensemble will rehearse after school one to two days per week. No audition is required for participation. Additional information regarding membership, rehearsal schedules, and expectations will be provided to students and families at the beginning of the school year.