NYSSMA

NYSSMA stands for the New York State School Music Association. Here in Brewster, we are in NYSSMA Zone 10.

Many students choose to participate in the NYSSMA Solo Festival. This is a wonderful opportunity for students to perform a prepared solo piece, scales, and sight-reading for an adjudicator who will give them helpful comments. From Seventh grade forward, NYSSMA scores will also count towards consideration for Area-All State which pools together top students from schools in Zone 10 for an orchestra. In high school, students may be selected for All State Conference ensembles. These are highly competitive spots! The best students from all over New York State are represented in these almost professional level ensembles.

FAQs:

Q: How do I sign up?

A: You will receive a form in January or February to sign up for NYSSMA. By this time you should have your piece chosen and will need to submit a small fee to register. You MUST register for NYSSMA on the pre-determined dates. Checks must be dated for that day as we are ONLY allowed to accept checks on those days. Checks with different dates cannot be accepted.

Q: Do I have to play a solo or can I play in a small chamber group?

A: You can play in a small chamber group, but this will not count towards consideration for Area All State or the All State Conference.

Q: What scales do I have to play?

A: It is different for every level. Please see this link:

Q: How do I know what level my piece is?

A: You must see Ms.Ono to make sure your piece is listed in the NYSSMA manual.

Q: Do I need private lessons to prepare for NYSSMA?

A: It is common for some students to take private lessons to prepare for NYSSMA but it is certainly not a requirement. If you would like extra help during lunch or after-school, please schedule a time to see me.

Q: How will I know if I made Area All State or All State Conference?

A: Ms.Ono will nominate you for these orchestra opportunities. A committee of teachers across New York State is assembled and they decide who will get to participate. A letter will be sent to Brewster High School and I will tell you if you have been selected.

Q: When will I get my scores back?

A: Usually about a week or two after the festival is over.

Q: Can I register to do NYSSMA on a non-stringed instrument?

A: Yes, you can. If you are at the high school, all piano and vocal registrations should go to Mrs.Taylor. All brass or woodwind registrations should go to Mr.Viglucci or Ms.P.

Q: How much does it cost to register?

A: The cost can change year to year, please see the letter that was sent home for the information regarding specific NYSSMA levels.

NYSSMA PRACTICE RESOURCES:

Scales for NYSSMA Level 1&2 can be found on the CV Starr Pratice Resource Page.

Violin

All of Suzuki Book #1

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLB606F40DF8A11AAE

Minuet No.1:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wIvmO8mzDC4

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YIFneyIkuCU

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3MMSE7sUz_E

Viola