2022 NYSSMA Festival Information
When?
Our Festival will be held on Friday, April 1 and Saturday, April 2, 2022. North Babylon students will attend the festival at the East Islip School District. Detailed information about Registration & Festival procedures will be posted as soon as they are available.
Can I still sign up to play this year?
Yes. You must complete the registration form and submit it to your District Music teacher no later than February 14, 2022. There are NO exceptions to this deadline as it is imposed by NYSSMA and is not within our control. North Babylon private school and homeschool families are welcome to participate in the Festival and may submit registration materials to Dr. Kim's office, located in Room 105 of North Babylon High School.
What is a playing permit?
"Playing permits" will be available from your school music teacher when the host district releases the information. This "permit" is an information sheet that lists your appointment time, location and directions to the site.
This permit is NOT your NYSSMA judging sheet. That official form will be available either at check in or at your appointment room at the Festival.
You do not need the playing permit to perform, but the paper is very helpful in filling out the actual sheet for the judges.
If you do NOT have your permit by Monday, March 28, 2022, contact Dr. Lowenborg-Coyne's office at 631 620 7044.
Do I need to bring my music to the Festival?
Remember that you need TWO original scores (music) of your selection for the Festival.
PHOTOCOPIES are not permitted, and will cause an immediate cancellation of your appointment.
Why do I need two scores (original music pieces)?
One copy is for you to use during your performance. The other copy (which should be clean of any markings) is for the judge. Judges do not have their own copies of all the music for the festival. You must give it to them at your audition.
If you have your selection memorized, you only need one copy. Give your one copy of the music to the judge. Just be sure to erase all the markings you have made while studying the score! If you need to borrow a second copy of your piece, contact the music and art department office as we keep a file of donated pieces from previous students.
Why can't I just photocopy the music?
Photocopying music is illegal. It is a violation of copyright law.
If you use a photocopy for either you or the judge, your appointment will be immediately cancelled and you will not be permitted to play. If your music is out of print, you must have an original letter from the publisher to verify this and then, and only in this circumstance, may photocopies be used.
What should I wear?
You do not have to wear your concert attire (black and white). You should dress "smart casual"; letting the judge know this is important to you and that you have worked hard to prepare for your audition is great! If you are coming directly from a sports game, please change prior to playing or singing.
What if I'm not ready to audition by my appointed audition time?
If you have run out of time to learn the piece, there is an option for you. Upon entering the room, simply tell the judge that you want to "go Festival". The judge will not give you a score for your performance. He or she will not take off points for missed notes or because you only played a portion of your piece. You will get a sheet back at the end of the performance with comments written in by the judge. You will not be awarded a medal, but at least you will receive comments from the judge about your performance.
For additional information, contact Dr. Lowenborg-Coyne at 620-7044 or email her at klowenborg-coyne@northbabylonschools.net.