NAfME and ACDA Host Mock All-State Audition

From students Danielle St. Amand (NAfME) and Amanda Williams (ACDA):

On October 8, the Keene State College chapters of the National Association for Music Education and the American Choral Directors Association collaborated and hosted the first annual Mock NHMEA All-State auditions.

The All-State festival consists of high school student auditioned honor ensembles. The auditions consist of performing a prepared piece as well as basic technical exercises such as sight-reading and scales.

This “mock” audition allowed students from surrounding high schools to not only go through the audition process, but also to receive feedback and advice from Keene State music faculty. The faculty worked with the students to improve their audition material and gain confidence before their All-State audition.

Professors Jim Chesebrough and Craig Sylvern volunteered their time to work with the students.

“It is wonderful to see these high school musicians working towards the goal of making the New Hampshire All-State ensembles,” Dr. Chesebrough commented. “Working with them reminded me that whether they make the ensembles or not, they will be better musicians for the experience.”

Dr. Sylvern also commented, “thanks to NAfME and ACDA for organizing the mock auditions. I think it was a good opportunity for the students to get a fresh perspective on their playing with regards to their technique, musicianship, and stage deportment. I look forward to next year’s.”