• Chorus Program Description

     The Howard w. Blake School of the Arts Chorus Program is dedicated to the vocal development and growth of all students in the program. Students will study various genres of music while building and developing their individual vocal technique and musical knowledge. Besides learning to improve their singing ability, students will learn life-long lessons which they will use for the rest of their lives.  The Blake Chorus Department does not just strive to develop great musicians, but strives to develop the entire human person. The family atmosphere of the chorus program enables students to discover who they are without fear of judgement or ridicule. Students enable each other to be the best versions of themselves. Students will develop self-discipline and teamwork skills as they work together towards common goals and performances. By fostering a love of community and choral music, the Blake Chorus Department will help students become productive and active members of society while preparing them for success post graduation from high school.

    Faculty

    Joseph Galeczka, Director, Chorus

    Joseph Galeczka

    Contact: joseph.galeczka@hcps.net

    Joseph Galeczka, conductor, is in his seventh year as Director of Choral Activities at Howard W. Blake School of the Arts and in his fourteenth year of teaching. A native of Michigan, Joseph graduated with a combined Bachelors in Choral and Instrumental Music Education from The Catholic University of America in Washington, DC. In 2013 he received his Masters in Choral Conducting from Florida State University, where he studied under Dr. Andre’ J. Thomas, Dr. Kevin Fenton, and Dr. Judy Bowers. Choirs under his direction have consistently received Superiors at District and State Music Performance Assessments. His choir was selected to perform at the 2019 Florida American Choral Directors Conference.  They have also performed throughout the State of Florida, Nationally, and Internationally, including Ireland, England, France, Switzerland, Austria, Italy, and Germany. Professionally, Joseph has performed with the National Symphony Orchestra, Detroit Symphony Orchestra, and the Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra. He has also performed internationally with ensembles throughout Western Europe. A professional highlight, Joseph was invited to perform for the newly appointed Italian Ambassador to the United States following his swearing-in ceremony. He is a member of ACDA, FVA, FMEA, NafME, and he is currently the chair of the Hillsborough County SSAA All-County Chorus. Joseph is an active clinician, FVA Adjudicator, composer, and arranger.  

    Audition Requirements

    Use the links below to access the music. Once you have applied, you will receive an email with step-by-step instructions for your audition!

    Students will need a letter of recommendation from their current music teacher. If they do not currently have a music teacher, then please select another teacher. The letter should address the student’s character, attitude, and behavior.

    Students are to prepare and perform the song, "Be Like a Bird," for their audition.  

    Here is a copy of the music:  Be Like a Bird

    Female and unchanged male voices. Students may sing in any key they wish. Here are two reference recordings in High and Low voice:

    Male voices please find a key which is comfortable. The recordings are in a typical high and low male key.

    Students may be asked questions about their musical background and experience.