Participating in the WMTA District Auditions is one of your benefits of MAME membership. These auditions, sponsored by the Wisconsin Music Teachers Association and supported by MAME, are held in March of each year and are designed to encourage music students at all ages and levels. The majority of participants are piano students, but each year string, voice, and even organ students participate. This year WMTA has created a new category for Ensembles, which will be open for combinations up to 10 instruments/voice/piano. Students can now choose memorized or non-memorized at any age and level. Also new this year: Badger State (typically held in May) has evolved into two levels: WMTA Regional (there are 3 regions in the state) and WMTA State Piano Competition (with winners at Regional participating in a state-wide competition).
Signup for auditions take place in February, but teachers should start preparing in the fall. There are many possible entry categories that include playing memorized or non-memorized music (at all levels), playing two or three pieces. Students prepare pieces of contrasting styles, and perform for a judge without an audience. All participants take a level-appropriate theory exam which will be administered on-site the day of auditions. More details about auditions can be found on the WMTA website. All new teachers are especially encouraged to consult the website, or of course email the WMTA District co-chairs John Scoville or Denise Taylor.
Important dates for WMTA District:
February 10, 2023: Deadline to sign students up and pay the fee
March 12, 2023: WMTA District Auditions at UW-Madison School of Music
April 5, 2023: Applications for WMTA Regional due
May 7, 2023: WMTA Regional (south) competition at WI Conservatory of Music
May 20, 2023: WMTA State Piano Competition at UW-Stevens Point
District Chairs: Denise Taylor and John Scoville
districtauds@madisonmusiceducators.org