MusicTime Studio

Students from various teachers participate in four recitals: Back to School in September, Just Boys in November, Wee Folks in January, and Masterworks in March.

Music theory is a vital aspect of music education. These tests measure the music knowledge of students on grade levels 1-12.

Open to all those creative students that want to express their music in writing. Must take the Theory Test also.

This activity was initiated in 1986 as a way to encourage students to research and write about music. The topics are broad to allow the student freedom of perspective. The essays should be written so that others of the same age will be able to understand them.

Each year, over 1300 Texas music students in nearly 100 ensembles perform at the TMTA State Convention in June, easily making the ensemble program the largest, most popular Student Affiliate convention event. Students can participate in either the elementary, intermediate or advanced level ensembles. Some of the requirements involve learning the ensemble music before auditions, which are by appointment with the directors in February. They need to attend all but one scheduled rehearsal. Rehearsals are normally held twice a month from April up to the State Convention's date. They have to provide their own costumes, which are selected by the directors and parents, and they have to attend the dress rehearsal at the convention site.

Open to students in grades 7-12. This is an excellent opportunity to try out performance skills under pressure. Winners will compete at the district level and then at the state level. Additional fees are required at each level. Approval of teacher is required. Requires Student Affiliate Enrollment.

This is a wonderful opportunity for the students to test their knowledge of Music History. We'll cover the topics in every lesson, following a well designed book, internet links, and audio files.

This is an annual event, open to all students of SAMTA teachers, regardless of age or level of ability. This is an excellent means for all of our students to receive comments and suggestions from other respected musicians. As a bonus, outstanding performers may be chosen to participate in an honors recital named Judges' Choice Recital.

I can also prepare my students to participate in the following piano competitions:

Open to any piano student from grades four through twelve who is a Texas resident or studies with a Texas-resident teacher. First, second, and third place winners from grades 4 through 12 will receive a trophy. Each student will receive judges' comments evaluating his or her performance. At the discretion of the judges, the grade 12 winner will be eligible to receive a renewable scholarship award of up to $4,000 per year for study as an undergraduate music major at UTSA.

Open to students in grades 1-12. Students must perform one composition from Dr. Peter A. Petroff and another piece of contrasting style and composer but of equal technical difficulty. Recital for the winners is 2 or 3 weeks after the competition.

This is an exciting opportunity for students to supplement their music studies by working with teachers from different parts of the country, interacting with other students of like interest and experiencing a full and nurturing musical environment. Parents may enjoy classes and performances with their children, meeting other parents and attending parent classes. Students may participate in the following classes: Eurhythmics, Music in Motion, Origami, Drumming, Handbells, and Chamber Music. In Chamber Music, the piano student is coached to play along a group of string players. This event is in January at Texas State University in San Marcos and requires registration through HTSO. Fees range from $110.00 to $180.00.

One of the most exciting aspects of being a music teacher is watching students develop and use their talents in practical and amazing ways. Here's just a sample of some of the things that students at MusicTime Studio are doing:

• • learning and then teaching younger siblings and friends to play the piano
• • learning pieces by ear and from YouTube
• • playing the piano for church services
• • playing along with church praise bands
• • playing solos and duets for offertories and special music at church
• • playing for weddings of family members and friends
• • providing live music at community events
• • accompanying family singing
• • accompanying other singers
• • preparing for and receiving high scores at the state Theory Test
• • composing and playing original pieces
• • participating in school talent shows
• • winning piano competitions