8 Tips for NYSSMA Preparation

Here are a few tips that helped me to get good scores on my NYSSMA pieces when I was in high school:

1. Be Prepared: It sounds simple but those who practice more way in advance will usually have the better scores. You should start looking at your NYSSMA solo AT LEAST 6 months in advance!

2. Know Your Scales: For most instruments you will have to know major scales. This is a good opportunity to get some easy points, so never ever mess up the scales!

3. Record Yourself: In the few weeks before NYSSMA, record yourself to really nitpick and polish your performance.

4. Perform for Others: If you are prone to getting nervous, perform for your friends and family before your adjudication. The more you perform the more you will become desensitized to the whole process, hopefully strengthening your nerves for the actual performance. We will be holding a NYSSMA master class workshop on April 17th and April 19th. This is a good opportunity to play in front of a teacher as well as other students before the actual NYSSMA day.

5. Sight Read as Much as You Can: And whenever you can! Even if it's not NYSSMA season, it is always a good idea to warm up with a little sight reading before each practice session.

6. Arrive on Time: Showing up late not only annoys the adjudicator, but also puts you under unnecessary stress as well. Give yourself time to settle and collect your nerves! If you arrive early enough, there will even be time to warm up and make sure your instrument is tuned (if it needs it).

7. Materials: Make sure you have your appropriate books; remember that NYSSMA doesn't allow photocopies! If you require an accompanist try to obtain one NO LATER than a month before your scheduled adjudication. Talk to your school music teacher if you need help.

8. Have Fun: Don't forget that this is first and foremost a learning experience. Appreciate the time you spent learning the piece and be excited for whatever helpful feedback the adjudicator is giving you!