January is typically audition season for students who are applying for magnet programs. If you are concerned that your child is not yet ready for his audition, contact your local music teacher and request private lessons. Just a few hours in one week will elevate your child’s skills. Of course, he must practice on his own as well.
Here in Florida, middle and high school students are also coming into the FOA (Florida Orchestra Association) and the FBMA (Florida Band Masters Association) competitions. While your child’s band teacher at school may work with the class for the ensemble piece, your child may require a bit more attention for the solo performance. Many music teachers know of someone who knows someone who teaches the instrument and whose specialty is the genre of music that your child is preparing. Don’t be afraid to call or email your child’s music teacher to ask about how best to prepare him for the competition.
In both auditions and competitions, students perform before very small audiences of one to three judges, typically in an empty classroom. This setting is strange and confusing for a young musician, so you want to give your child every opportunity to be prepared and confident for his performance.
Break a leg!
