All students are expected to participate in scheduled performance classes, studio recitals, community service events and, when recommended, adjudications. Select students may also have the opportunity to perform in competitive events. Recitals and adjudications serve the purpose of providing students with goals to work towards. The incentive of a performance will often stimulate and motivate a student as well as give them a sense of accomplishment and self-confidence.
Studio Recitals
There are at least four studio recitals held per year corresponding (roughly) with the 4 seasons. A variety of themes are presented at these recitals with the last one always being the “Awards Recital” in which various awards, ribbons, trophies, etc. are presented to outstanding students.
WSMTA Adjudications
Washington State Music Teachers Association sponsors this educational event which is usually sometime in February or March. Each student performs two memorized pieces of contrasting styles for a qualified adjudicator who will give them a personal review which includes oral comments, a written evaluation and a certificate of participation.
Community Events
Students are encouraged to use their music skills in other community performances such as church, school, nursing homes, etc. To ensure adequate preparation, the teacher requests advance notification prior to these events.
Recital Etiquette
Students are encouraged to observe proper performance and audience etiquette. For all performances, please arrive 10 minutes early and plan to stay for the entire program. If you absolutely must leave before the end of a recital, please let the teacher know well in advance, sit near the exit, and wait for a performer to finish before leaving.
Please understand that ANY noise is a distraction to the performer. Since the performing students have worked very hard to prepare their pieces, I must ask that babies and young children unable to sit quietly for a full hour not attend. Also, no talking, whispering or getting up during a performance. Performing students should dress in appropriate attire. No tennis shoes, blue jeans, tee shirts, short skirts, etc.