Events for Piano Students

Piano students will have the opportunity to participate in several events and contests throughout the year. Below is a description of events in the New Orleans area.

NOMTA Sonata Contest

This event is indeed a “contest” and is more competitive than other events. Students prepare one movement of a sonatina or sonata from a list distributed to teachers each year. Students play the exact, same piece as other students in their level. The piece is performed for three judges who assign a rating of first, second, third, honorable mention, excellent, or very good.

NOMTA Romantic/Contemporary Auditions

The student is required to prepare one piece from the the Romantic or Contemporary time periods. The student performs his or her memorized piece for two judges. The judges then provide written feedback in addition to a rating. If a student receives the highest rating, “Superior Recitalist,” from both judges, he or she is invited to play in the winners recital the following day. Students who receive a “Superior Recitalist” rating from one judge and a “Superior” rating from the other judge do not play in the recital but will receive a medal.

Festival

Students prepare two memorized pieces for a judge. This is a great event for students who are less competitive. Students are given written feedback from the judge in addition to a rating. The ratings include Superior, Excellent, Very Good, Good, and Fair.  Students who receive a Superior rating are awarded a trophy.

LMTA Piano Rally

The Rally is considered the most important event of the year. It allows the teacher and parent to measure the student’s progress in all areas of piano study each year. The Rally consists of 4 different parts:

  1. Performance – The student plays three memorized pieces for a judge.
  2. Sight-Reading – Students are given a piece to sight-read for a judge. Students will not know the piece ahead of time.
  3. Keyboard Musicianship – The student plays keyboard skills including scales, chords, cadences, and arpeggios for a judge. The requirements for keyboard musicianship advance in each level.
  4. Written Test – Students are allowed one hour to complete a written theory test that includes ear training as well as terms and music history. The requirements for the test advance in each level.

Studio Recitals

Recitals are a great opportunity for students to share their success with friends and family. Sharing their music and hard work is rewarding for students.