Perry High School Choir

Concert Choir

Concert Choir is an ensemble open to all students grades 9-12 and meets during 5th period.  Singers will focus on developing and maintaining a healthy vocal production, music literacy skills, intonation and ear training, performance etiquette, vocal independence, and ensemble skills.  Voice lessons are available throughout the year.  There are six required performances during the school year.  Concert Choir singers are encouraged to participate in other music opportunities available to students both during and outside of the school day.

Chorale

Chorale is an ensemble open to all students with treble voices in grades 9-12 and meets during 6th period.  Singers will focus on developing and maintaining a healthy vocal production for the developing treble voice, music literacy skills, intonation and ear training, performance etiquette, vocal independence, and ensemble skills.  Singers will have the opportunity to rehearse, perform, and connect to a wide variety of literature for treble voices. Voice lessons are available throughout the year.  Chorale singers are encouraged to participate in other music opportunities available to students both during and outside of the school day.

Select Choir & Nota Azul Jazz Choir

Select Choir is an auditioned, extra-curricular ensemble open to all students grades 9-12 who are currently enrolled in Concert Choir or Chorale.  Select Choir is an extension of the Vocal Music Department and rehearses outside of the school day, therefore singers in this ensemble are held accountable under Perry High School’s eligibility policy and Code of Conduct.

Singers in Select Choir will participate in an intensive and highly rewarding musical experience.  In depth study of music from many historical time periods will be experienced, including multicultural selections from around the world, as well as music of varying styles and genres.

The 6-12 Vocal Music Department Director is Jenn Nelson.  Mrs. Nelson holds an Associate in Arts degree from DMACC, a Bachelor of Music Education degree, and a Kodaly Mastery Certificate from Drake University.  She is an active member of the Iowa Choral Directors Association.  This is Mrs. Nelson’s 8th year at PHS and PMS.  She also directs the spring musical, and is the assistant drama director for the fall plays.  Prior to teaching at PHS and PMS, Mrs. Nelson taught K-5 General Music at Perry Elementary for 6 years, and 6-12 Vocal Music at Prairie Valley for 2 years.  She has worked extensively with Perry School’s PACES Program since 2002, from teaching enrichment classes in music and gardening, to working as a lead teacher and site coordinator.  Mrs. Nelson began directing children’s choirs in 1995, at the First United Methodist Church in Grand Junction, Iowa.  She continued upon moving to Perry, directing the children’s choir at Mt. Olivet Lutheran Church from 2002-2004.  Mrs. Nelson is the current treasurer of the Perry Education Association, and past president of that group.  She resides in rural Perry with her husband, Garrett, and four daughters.  Her oldest son, Beau, is currently stationed in California with the United States Marine Corps.