Certificate of Merit
Every year since 1933, the Music Teachers’ Association of California (MTAC) sponsors a music study program entitled Certificate of Merit (CM) which is open to all students who study with an MTAC teacher.
Currently, approximately 30,000 young music students throughout the State of California are evaluated. The CM program involves extensive testing, including a written theory test (including ear training), keyboard technique (scales, chords and arpeggios), sight-reading and, of course, performance.
Top CM students can go on to Branch Honors (county-wide recitals featuring the top performers). If selected, they can also appear at the annual MTAC convention. Participating in CM is a great way for students and teachers to have something very tangible on which to focus their practicing and preparation.
Our 2017 Results
This year the Mr. B. Piano Studio entered an all-time-high total of fifteen students, ranging from Level 1 through Advanced. Fourteen students were awarded Branch Honors, meaning that they got Excellent or Good in Sight-Reading, Technique and Repertoire; and 80% or higher on the written theory test. These students are now invited to perform at the Branch Honors recitals on the 30th of April.
This is a 93% Branch Honors showing, compared with roughly 50% Countywide. Theory test scores came in at an average of 88.2%.
Congratulations to every student who prepared diligently for this comprehensive and challenging examination. Everyone should be proud of this terrific accomplishment!
Sophia Drozd and Benjy Wall-Feng were awarded THUMB (Tamalpais High United Music Boosters) scholarships in the voice quality and classical divisions, respectively. There’s talk of creative collaboration between the two. Stay tuned!
Peian Harness will be performing the Brahms G Minor Rhapsody at this year’s MTAC Convention in Santa Clara. She was one of six adult students chosen from a field of twenty. Congratulations, Peian!
On April 22nd, Harita Kalvai was awarded first place in the Intermediate B division of the Margaret Bean Davis competition in San Rafael. As a result, she played at the winners’ recital (six different divisions) on Friday evening, April 28th. Congratulations, Harita!
Rachel Ko won two Gold Medals in the Elementary Division against 13 other contestants in the Bay Area Music Association U.S. International Music Competition on 7/24/2016. The Competition was held at Allegro School of Music in San Carlos.
