You’ll learn musicianship and vocal skills while performing great music in a fun and supportive environment.
Courses
Knight Singers
A year-long audition-only mixed chamber choir of a capella and accompanied vocal music repertoire that spans from jazz, popular, musical theater, classical, and more. Prior vocal experience is not required but is highly recommended. Musicians will perform repertoire in 2-4 part harmony and will perform at least twice a year. Those who enjoy singing in a more standard choral form should take this class. Watch a preview video here.
Open to 10th-12th graders.
Vocal Exploration from Ragtime to Rap
Designed to explore the intersection of music and culture, this course will include listening, reading, short presentations, and optional performances. Several American musical styles will be covered and some artists featured include Snoop Dogg, Taylor Swift, Eminem, Lauryn Hill, Stevie Wonder, Bob Dylan, Tupac, Aretha Franklin, The Beatles, Bob Marley, and Duke Ellington. Watch a preview video here.
Open to 10th-12th graders.
Musical Theater Workshop
A performance based course focused on the three essential elements of musical theatre- music, drama, and movement. We will perform scenes from musical theatre repertoire from the golden age to the present. Prior experience in vocal music, drama, and/or movement is encouraged.
Additional Programs
Menlo’s Chorus occasionally has opportunities to travel and perform for different audiences and/or to attend festivals with other high school choirs. Trips are not mandatory, and fundraising projects help with student and faculty expenses. Destinations have been worldwide, and the Chorus has performed at festivals in Hawaii, New Orleans, New York City, Cuba and Verona.
Karen Linford is a singer, conductor, and composer. She received her undergraduate training in music education from Chico State University, where she studied under Dr. Sharon Paul and was recognized for her work in music and composition. She received a Master of Music degree in choral conducting from the University of Oregon. She has performed with the Oregon Bach Festival, the Central Oregon Symphony, and the Sunriver Music Festival. Karen has led high school, children’s and adult choirs around the Bay Area since 1996. She loves sharing her love of music and singing with the Menlo community.
