AMERICAN HARP SOCIETY
MUSIC EDUCATION AUDITIONS

The AHS Music Education Auditions give students invaluable experience in performance and critique without the pressure of competition.

The Music Education Auditions are open to students of all ages who are national members, and consist of two auditions ('hearings') held approximately one month apart. At the first, the participants play two pieces of their own choosing. At the second, they play these again--to show their improvement--along with a third piece they have chosen.

In addition to playing for each other and for a friendly audience of family and friends, (which in and of itself could be the program's raison d'etre--so much is gained by playing for and listening to others,) the participants perform in front of an Advisor--NOT a judge. This program is not a competition. Comparisons are not made between participants. The Advisor's job is to provide oral and written suggestions for each participant. Usually the Advisor is a master teacher from a nearby area, or a local non-harpist music teacher known for his/her exceptional ability to work with students.

All pieces are left up to the participants. However, we do ask that the three pieces performed represent the Classic, Romantic, and Contemporary periods of music. We strongly recommend that the music be within the participant's mental and emotional capacity. The emphasis is entirely on musicianship, not on "showing off."

Written theory tests are given at the first audition. An oral or ear training test may be given at the second. The tests are simply to impress upon the students the necessity of a good grounding in the theory of music.

Every participant who completes both auditions will receive a handsome Certificate of Participation from the American Harp Society, Inc.

For further information contact the Music Education Auditions Chairman through Kathleen Moon, Executive Secretary, PO Box 38334, Los Angeles CA 90038-0334. Phone: 323-469-3050. Email: kmoon@UCLAlumni.net