(March 27): Although the campus will be closed until June 30, the choir class MUST continue online to preserve the continuity of our program. Mozart will be combined with other pieces for the Fall concert. If you can’t access our CANVAS shells (see below) please email me for instructions.

(March 21): As I mentioned earlier, our CANVAS shells have been activated (not much content yet). As April 6th approaches I will send out invitations for a test meeting on ZOOM, in preparation for online instruction. Semi-chorus music will be open to everyone during this period of virtual rehearsals.

If you’re like me, your eyes have already glazed over (What the heck are CANVAS and ZOOM!?)

To get into your class CANVAS shell (class website). go to… https://web.peralta.edu/portal/ and click “Students”. Your log-in should be the same as PASSPORT (For technical help, email: reset@peralta.edu)

From there you should see a button called “CANVAS” Click that and you will see buttons with the names of courses you take. There is also a link called “courses” on the sidebar. Click the class icon and voilà. The system keeps track of your logins (no more sign in sheets). There should be a welcome statement from the instructor. On the left sidebar, choose “modules” to see weekly postings, assignments, etc. For technical help, email: reset@peralta.edu

I will also use conferencing software called ZOOM. You can either search for zoom and create a free account OR wait for an invitation (I will message you a link to each class meeting). If you click the invitation link, your browser will open up the website for ZOOM. If it’s the first time on a particular device (phone, tablet, computer), it will prompt you to download software. Downloading the software will allow you to join our class meetings (and you could use it to create meetings of your own). I heard tell of a virtual happy hour on ZOOM (oh the possibilities).  Watch this ZOOM video

Although classes are officially postponed until April 6, I will host some test meetings and ask some of you to help me by joining in. Some time in the next two weeks of extended “Spring Break” I will send out a link from each class shell with a meeting time. It is vital for the future of our music program that students continue meeting online, so we can finish the semester.

Let’s all hope things improve before August (Fall semester). Stay safe! In solidarity, 

John Reager

The Requiem is already sounding wonderful. Whatever happens this semester, I am very proud of you and take delight in your level of artistry.

Return HERE or your CANVAS shell for updates on schedule changes. Sorry for any inconvenience.