Schola Cantorum

The Schola Cantorum consists of girls from ages seven to twelve. This preparatory group gives girls a grounding in the basics of choral singing, rhythm and sight-singing. Schola Cantorum rehearses on Monday afternoons from 4:30-6:00. Scholas primarily a non-performing group, although they may perform one or two pieces in the Holiday and Spring concerts.

Kantorei

Kantorei (pronounced KAHN-toe-rye) consists of girls in fourth grade and above who have demonstrated a good understanding of vocal technique and music theory. Kantorei rehearses on Saturday mornings from 9:15 - 12 noon. Kantorei is the youngest of the performing choirs, and sings regularly in both the Holiday and Spring concerts. From time to time, Kantorei will sing in the local community.

Troubadours &Trouvères

The Troubadours and Trouvères groups are for girls ten years of age and older. Membership in this group requires basic vocal and musical competence, and personal maturity.

Rehearsals consist of vocal and sight-singing training, and expanded performance opportunities. Troubadours and Trouvères rehearse on Monday evenings from 6:30-8:15. In addition, the “TnT’s” rehearse together with the Motet Choir on the 2nd and 3rd Saturdays of each month from 10:00-12:00. Theory classes are held on the 4th and 5th Saturdays of each month. The Troubadours and Trouvères travel locally and regionally. Singers progress at their own rate through annual advancement evaluations.

Advancement is not determined by age or grade level—rather, by a number of other considerations including sight singing and vocal skills, regular and reliable commitment to rehearsals and performances, and the ability to meet the challenge of increasing standards and difficulty in literature and repertoire. Because each successive level represents a significant increase in difficulty and sight-singing skills, it is not unusual for students to progress at differing rates.

Motet Choir

Most girls in the Motet Choir are in ninth grade or above. Rare exceptions are made for very experienced girls who have had extensive musical training outside of PG. Auditions for this choir include a more advanced level of sight-reading, proven vocal ability, a working knowledge of musical terms and concepts, proven ability to concentrate and remain engaged in extended rehearsals and excellent attendance history in former PG choirs. It is rare for a new PG applicant to be placed directly in the Motet Choir.

Membership in this group requires an extra level of commitment, and eligibility is determined on a semester-to-semester basis. The Motet Choir rehearses on Wednesday evenings from 6:30-8:30 and with the TnT’s on the 2nd and 3rd Saturdays of each month from 10:00-12:00. Theory classes are held on the 4th and 5th Saturdays of each month.