All students participating in the NYSSMA solo festival must register by February 6, 2009.
Concert Band students are being offered extra credit for attending the festival and/or helping out with the festival, toward their third quarter grade. If students receive an Outstanding or and 'A' on their solo they will also be exempt from the Concert Band final. Students must participate on their band instrument to receive the extra credit.
The benefit to participating and doing well in this festival has many rewards. High scores may be used to enhance college applications in the honors or awards area, scores are also used for All-County Band or Orchestra selections and participation reflects self motivation and commitment on behalf of the student which play a role in honor group recommendations.
This festival should not be confused with the NYSSMA Major Organization Festival where the entire Band performs together, that is a different festival held later in the year.
