The Big Week!

I'm getting so excited for such a big week-there will be exams for 22 of my kiddos, two diploma candidates, a senior recital and my own studio recital this week. All other things in my life wait for this; meals, dishes and laundry duties are picked up by the others, no gardening, nothing extra. Send good vibes my way, I'm going to be one tired teacher Sunday night!

Here is the info my students will receive at their lessons before their audition.

Welcome to the biggest piano event in the world. The Piano Guild, as they are called (a division of the American College of Musicians), was founded in 1929 by Dr. Irl Allison. Forty-six entrants participated in the first audition (then called a "tournament") at Hardin-Simmons University in Abilene, Texas. Since that time, the Guild has grown to over 125,000 participants who enroll annually in international auditions, which are held in over 800 locations throughout the U.S. and abroad.

The primary function is to establish definite goals and awards--in noncompetitive auditions--for students of all levels, from the earliest beginner to the gifted prodigy. With the exception of our "special" programs, teachers have the flexibility to choose all repertoire for student auditions. Students are judged on individual merit, by a well-qualified music professional, in the areas of accuracy, continuity, phrasing, pedaling, dynamics, rhythm, tempo, tone, interpretation, style, and technique. Our purpose is to encourage growth and enjoyment through the study of piano.

This is a chance to show our accomplishments for the year. I suggest these preparations:

• Please have the pages marked with a paperclip, tape flag, index card or post-it note.
  

• Number your measures at the beginning of each line. Many books are already numbered.

• Get a good night’s sleep. Feeling rested and prepared is worth more than words can say. You are ready.

• Dress up. Look and feel your best. Try pedaling with your dress shoes on. Ladies watch the length of your dresses-too short and it will be hard to sit on the bench professionally. Leave rings, watches, and bracelets home.

• Bring all your music. No piece, no audition.

• Come 10 minutes early to check in.

• Play musically, smile and be friendly to the judge. (S)he has a hard job too.
  

• Celebrate with something nice afterward (lunch, ice cream, trip to the park, get creative).

Congratulations! I’m proud of the work you did this year!