:::MTAC Palo Alto Branch -- Note from the President :::

MTAC State Programs

ADULT SEMINAR is for the purpose of satisfying the needs of 3 groups of performers - avocational, vocational, and teacher/performer. The highest level of participation is screened auditions leading to recital opportunity annually at MTAC Conventions. Other facets of the program include master classes and private lessons.

CERTIFICATE OF MERIT provides a graded standard of student advancement for all levels through the tenth year. It offers a teacher syllabus, state evaluation certificates of participation and opportunities for performance on regional and state convention programs

COMPOSERS TODAY parallels Certificate of Merit in the area of music composition. Students and teachers may submit original works for consideration in the Evaluations, the State Contest, the Young Composers' Guild, as well as convetion performances. Composers Today is a most remarkable program that provides structure and opportunities for composers of all ages and levels of experience. Syllabus is available.

CONCERTO/SOLO PIANO COMPETITION provides opportunities for high standard competitive performance experience in either concerto or solo performances at the State Convention. Regional competitions are held in the North and South in April. Cash prizes are awarded at the State Convention finals. Not associated with the Certificate of Merit program; students may participate in both.

IMPROVISATION promotes understanding of keyboard theory and its use in the process of creating spontaneous music. Syllabus is available.

VOCE provides new channels of development for vocalists, orchestral instrumentalists, chamber music ensembles and expanded opportunities to perform.

YOUNG ARTIST GUILD offers semi-professional opportunities to gifted young performers through appearances at branch-sponsored concerts. Students are chosen by audition through the Certificate of Merit program.

YOUNG COMPOSERS GUILD offers guidance, scholarships, performance opportunities and professional promotion to promising composers of high school and college age.