NYSSMA

Can someone give me a little more information on this? When do you usually register your child for this? Do you ask your music teacher to help you? Is it worth it?

Re: NYSSMA

I think registration is January or February. Your child registers under a music teacher but that teacher doesn't necessarily help. My son plays drums in the school band and with a private teacher. He has to register under his school band teacher but learns his music with his private teacher. I have no idea why it works like that, but I'm sure there's a good reason.

Is it worth it? It's been a good experience for my son overall. He's done it for several years and will do it again.

Re: NYSSMA

Your child's private and school music teachers would be the best ones to direct your questions to. Registration and NYSSMA dates will depend on what instrument your child plays (i.e. piano vs. strings are not the same time) and also what level of NYSSMA your child is at. Also, your child's teacher will be able to tell you based on where your child is at whether or not NYSSMA would be worthwhile. In my experience it is always the teachers that recommend and push for NYSSMA if they feel it is right for your child.

In general - NYSSMA takes place between March and May. You register through the school music teacher - they will send a form home sometime between Nov. and Jan.

If your child is a solid player who enjoys performing and doesnt get nervous - I don't see a down side to NYSSMA.

NYSSMA

Thank you. I think he would enjoy it.

NYSSMA

My DD did violin at NYSSMA this year in 5th grade. She had done violin at school for 3rd and 4th, and her music teacher asked if she wanted to participate. She got a great score, and her music teacher gave her an award for it. It was 30 minutes of our time, so I didn't really see a downside.

NYSSMA

NYSSMA is a great and budget friendly way for a child to get an honest and structured critique of their strengths and weaknesses as musicians. And as a PP poster said, certain scores can earn the child awards or the opportunity to play in county or statewide ensembles. Also, in my DD school district, now that she's been through it several times, she mentors the elementary level children preparing for their NYSSMA solos, which is a great experience.

NYSSMA

My daughter plays piano and just sat for NYSSMA piano this past March. She was in second grade at the time. All the students that take part are presented with an award by the district. It’s also something that is good when your getting into college applications. Also, I think you have to have done NYSSMA the year prior if you want a chance to be selected for all county.