What is NYSSMA?
Each year many of our student musicians perform in New York State School Music Association (NYSSMA) solo and ensemble and Jazz solo festivals. Students may play more than one instrument (or voice) and ensembles (duet, trio, etc.). If a student performs as a soloist, he/she must prepare scales from memory, a solo from the official NYSSMA manual #31, and must sight-read eight measures of music. Jazz soloists must also perform a short jazz improvisation. Students will perform this before an official NYSSMA adjudicator. The student’s overall performance score is used to determine the rating. A 28-point scale with O (outstanding), E (excellent), G (good), F (fair) ratings is used for levels I-IV. Letter grades and a 100-point scale are used for levels V and VI. Each student will receive his or her own adjudication sheet that explains the rating. Students that perform in an ensemble (duet, trio, etc.) only need to perform the selected piece. Students must use an original copy of the music. Photocopies are not permitted. It is ideal to have two original copies, one for the student and one for the adjudicator. If this is not possible, the adjudicator may view the student’s copy during the adjudication. A medal is available for an additional $4.00 fee.
Why should students perform at NYSSMA?
NYSSMA certified adjudicators that specialize on the student’s particular instrument evaluate the students. The adjudicator’s written evaluation will reinforce what the student does well and give constructive criticism that will promote their musical progress. After the festival, the adjudication sheet will be copied by our music department and used to assist in nominating students for possible participation to All-County, All-State, All-Eastern and National Honor groups. The original adjudication form will be given to the student.