TMTA

Student Affiliate is a program of the Texas Music Teachers Association inaugurated in 1951, to provide for the student a wider musical experience than is usually afforded in private music study with recognition for achievement in various phases of musical education and activity. All awards of Student Affiliate are funded through the Texas Music Teachers Educational Foundation. Students enrolled as Student Affiliates may be eligible to participate in the following activities:

Ensembles

The state of Texas is home to the largest piano ensemble program in the United States. Each year at TMTA's annual conference, over a thousand students have an opportunity to perform in concerts held throughout the weekend on a stage with 15 grand pianos, while in costumes themed with their music. The TMTA Ensemble Program gives the beginner, intermediate, and advanced piano student the unique opportunity to play with other pianists in a piano ensemble. Students participating 9 or more years are eligible for special recognition and monetary prizes.

Original Composition Contest

The TMTA SA Original Composition Contest encourages students to compose their own compositions. With their teacher's guidance, students can compose solo or ensemble compositions for any instrument that may be submitted to the state contest for adjudication by highly qualified judges. Winners in each category receive certificates and cash awards and are invited to perform their works at TMTA's annual conference.

Performance Contest

The TMTA SA Performance Contest is the premier event for students who wish to compete at the highest level. Students must prepare a program to be performed by memory in front of multiple judges. After advancing from local and regional rounds, students will perform in the State contest at the TMTA Conference in June, with top prizes obtaining monetary awards.

Publication Contest

The purpose of the contest is to promote excellence in music research. Students pick one of two topics for their grade level (grades one through college) and write an essay designed to explore and analyze the topic in an original, engaging way. Articles selected as “Winner” and “Outstanding” by the judges are published in the TMTA SA Publication Contest Book. Winners receive certificates and cash awards.

Theory

The purpose of the Theory Test is to evaluate SA members’ musical knowledge of and the ability to apply theory, aural, and musicianship concepts across a broad musical spectrum. The Whitlock Theory Tests are named in honor of Dr. E. Clyde Whitlock, a charter member of TMTA and a distinguished music educator and adjudicator. Each year the TMTA Theory Committee prepares tests for levels 1-12 using the guidelines set forth in the Student Affiliate Theory Syllabus and Student Manual. TMTA's local associations administer the tests each fall and spring in a professional atmosphere. Students receiving a 90% or higher will receive a medal.

World of Music

The purpose of the World of Music program is to introduce students to music history through the study of composers lives, music, and composition styles. World of Music books in levels 1-12 have been created so that students may enter the program at any time in their music study at their current grade level. Each book contains all of the content needed to be successful on the corresponding test. Registered students are tested in the spring semester, and those who receive a 90% or higher will receive a gold medal.

IMPORTANT: All registrations must be submitted to the state by your Local Association. Procedures and deadlines for submissions will vary by association, as do event dates and locations. For more information or questions: