Performance Procedures

1. Each ensemble must prepare and memorize two pieces of music that are equally challenging. To qualify for graded ratings, ensembles must include at least one piece from the NCMEA Middle School Music List. If neither piece is from this list, the ensemble will automatically receive a "Grade I" designation.

2. Directors and/or chaperones must accompany their ensemble throughout their time at the venue, from arrival until departure.

   • Students should leave all personal belongings in the vehicle they arrived in; this includes mobile devices.

3. Before participating in the event, the director must provide proof of an active NAfME membership (such as a membership card, photo thereof, or proof of purchase) during check-in. Additionally, they must submit three copies of each musical piece intended for performance.

   • Photocopies of original scores will not be accepted.

   • ePrint scores should either have proof of purchase printed separately or indicated at the bottom of the first page of the score.

   • The director is responsible for numbering ALL measures within each of the scores, as well as identifying any modifications to the piece. This includes re-voicing.

4. Assistants will accompany you through the venue to each rehearsal or performance area. During these transitions, ensembles should maintain respect for the venue by remaining quiet.

5. The ensemble will have 15 minutes to rehearse in the warm-up space. This time begins from the moment the last student enters the room. Directors are not required to utilize the entire 15 minutes and may proceed to the queue area to prepare for the performance.

6. After the ensemble is positioned on the stage for their performance, the director (or a designated student) is responsible for introducing the group to the audience and judges. This includes presenting information about the school, introducing the ensemble, announcing the pieces they will perform, and crediting the composers or arrangers of those pieces.

   • The panel of adjudicators will indicate when they are ready for the ensemble to be introduced.

   • There should be a brief pause between each selection -- suggested 30 seconds to 1 minute. This allows the adjudicators time to finalize any comments from the first selection.

   • Selections shouldn't total more than 15 minutes in total performance time.

7. After their performance, the ensemble will be guided to the sight-singing area. There, they should sit quietly without touching any materials until they receive further instructions. Click here to view the procedures of the sight-singing portion of MPA.

8. Students will be accompanied from the sight-singing area to the check-in area. Afterward, the director can choose to bring the singers back to the audience area or to depart from the venue. 

   • If returning to the performance area, the director and ensemble should wait until the current performing ensemble finishes their final selection before entering quickly and quietly.

   • If choosing to depart from the venue, the director should direct chaperones to escort the ensemble to their vehicle. The director should then await the completion of score sheets and certificates before leaving.

     • At no point should scores be announced in or near the venue. This may disrupt a performance or the venue's daily functions.

A DISRUPTION IN OR NEAR THE EVENT WILL RESULT IN DISQUALIFICATION FROM MPA FOR THE FOLLOWING MPA SEASON.