Solo and Ensemble
The Indiana State School Music Association (ISSMA) created the Solo and Ensemble Festival to promote independent learning through Chamber music. Chamber music is a form of music that is composed for a small group of people. It includes any music that is performed by a small number of performers, with one performer to a part. I like to think of Chamber music as the music of friends. For centuries, chamber music was played primarily by amateur musicians in their homes, and even today, when most chamber music performance has migrated from the home to the concert hall, many musicians, amateur and professional, still play chamber music for their own pleasure. We use the ISSMA Solo and Ensemble Festival to celebrate and embrace Chamber Music.
Solo and Ensemble Info/Itinerary/
State Solo and Ensemble Itinerary/Info
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Accompanists: Soloists are highly encouraged to use a piano accompanist. ISSMA feels it is important that soloists use accompanists. The accompanist provides professional support for the student during their performance as well as enriches the experience for the soloist and everyone listening. The Value of having an accompanist ensures that students are able to perform with the best possible support and understanding of tempo and style. As students progress, upper level events require the use of an accompanist and students may earn their way to the State Solo and Ensemble Contest.
Finding an Accompanist and Fees: Students are welcome to find their own accompanist or Mr. Day can help you. Fee’s are anywhere from $30-$80 and are dictated by the difficulty of the music and accompanist.
Q What Kind of Ensembles can we participate in?
A For Solo and Ensemble contest you have to have at least 3 members or more involved in your ensembles. The guideline is any ensemble must stay in the same family of instruments. So, there are only woodwind ensembles, percussion ensembles, and brass ensembles. but you can look at the "Solo and Ensemble Recognized Events".
Q What is Solo and Ensemble Contest?
Solo and Ensemble is a festival where you travel to another school and perform a solo or as part of a small ensemble (Chamber Ensemble). Each performance is critiqued by a qualified specialist of your instrument and you are given written comments on your performance. For example, if you play a flute solo the judge will be a professional flute player. You will receive a gold, silver, or bronze medal depending on how good the performance was.
Q What do I get for performing?
A You get to show off your skills for the public! You will be adjudicated and given a score. Depending on what score you earn, you'll receive a gold, silver, or bronze MEDAL. You will also get comment sheets from the judges that provide tips to improve.
Q Why doesn't ISSMA allow duets (2 person ensemble)?
A ISSMA used to allow duets but due to the popularity of the festival there is no longer room to accommodate duets. However, duets are a great way to play music with your best of friends.