NYSSMA Festival Q & A for students and parents: 

1. What is a NYSSMA festival? 

NYSSMA sponsors approximately 145 solo & small ensemble and major ensemble festivals in New York State each spring. At solo and small ensemble festivals, students are given a performance evaluation that involves playing a graded solo from the NYSSMA Manual, playing scales and sight reading. At major ensemble festivals, school bands, choruses and orchestras are evaluated. 

2. How do I register my child? 

All NYSSMA registration is done through the student’s school music program. Information regarding scheduling times and appropriate materials should be received from the school music teacher or the head of the school’s music department. The school district or private school must be a school member of NYSSMA. 

3. Can I register directly as an individual or through my child’s private music teacher or studio? 

No. Registration is only done through the music program at the school which the student attends. 

4. Is this a competition? 

NYSSMA festivals (other than for All-State) are evaluations, not competitions. Students may compete with themselves from year to year, but NYSSMA does not view festivals as competitive. 

5. What music can be played? 

Students who desire a rating must choose a graded solo from the NYSSMA Manual. Student who desire comments only can perform any music and are not required to play scales or sight read. 

6. Where can I see a manual? 

Most schools and many teachers have a copy of the NYSSMA manual. It can also be found at many public libraries. The manual can be purchased at www.nyssma.org/manual The manual contains rules and regulations as well as the extensive solo lists. It should be noted, however, that the manual is designed for use by music teachers and is not intended as a student or parent publication. 

7. Do I need a 2nd  copy for the adjudicator? 

A second copy of the solo is highly recommended, but not required. A piano accompaniment part may be used as the second copy, although it is important to be sure the solo part in the piano copy exactly matches the solo that the student will perform. 

8. What about photo copies? 

Any legal copy may be used, but if the legality is in doubt, it is wise to check on it before the day of the festival. 

9. Do I need an accompanist? 

Accompanists are not required except for All-State. They are highly recommended for vocal soloists. Because of the difficulty in obtaining sufficient pianos, most (not all) festivals do not allow accompanists for non-vocal or non-All State soloists. Recorded and electronic accompaniments are permitted, but students must supply the equipment and be able to set it up and perform within the time allotment.