Virtual MPA Information
The Alabama Orchestra Association’s Music Performance Assessment – Orchestra event provides orchestra ensembles from Alabama with the opportunity to perform 2-3 selected works to a panel of judges and receive feedback and ratings on their performance.
For selected youth orchestras, university orchestras, or restricted public schools, AOA is able to make accommodations to host the Alabama Orchestra Music Performance Assessment virtually in an online format. This page is created to assist music teachers, district chairs, and adjudicators with this process. Submissions will be accepted from all full-orchestras, string-orchestras, harp ensembles, and guitar/ukulele ensembles. Also new for this 2021 year, submissions from small ensembles (string quartets or larger) will be accepted (4+ musicians). Mixed ensembles should include at least one string player (Violin, Viola, Cello, Bass, Harp, Ukulele, or Guitar)
As part of our in-person event, ensembles have the opportunity to be assessed on their sight-reading skills. However, this virtual format does not include sight-reading and does not allow ensembles to receive ratings.
Ensemble directors should make sure they are familiar with all of the rules and regulations regarding this event. More information about this as well as information regarding ensemble classifications, the prescribed music list, and our registration form can be found via the links listed on this webpage.
Timeline
- Submission/Registration starts on Immediately
- Video Submissions are due by April 4, 2024
- PayPal Preferred – Check Payment due by May 1, 2024
- Judging starts on April 5, 2022 – ends by April 10, 2024
- Results released approximately May 1, 2024 when paid in full
Music Selection – Choose 3 pieces:
Each ensemble should choose a program consisting of two or three pieces, with a total runtime of 20-30 minutes of music. Maximum flexibility of repertoire selection is given to virtual recording ensembles to encourage participation by youth orchestras and university programs. Performances of concert selections recorded in the past 12 months are acceptable for submission. NOTE: Virtual submissions are not given ratings or awards. Sight-reading is not required of virtual submissions.
Fee Schedule
- First Large Ensemble** – $180 + $2 per student
- Second Large Ensemble – $90 + $ 2 per student
- Additional Large Ensembles – $65 + $2 per student
- Small Ensembles** – $10 per ensemble
** Large Ensemble includes groups with 8+ musicians. Small Ensemble Fees are low to encourage participation, but students are expected to also be in a large ensemble.
This VIRTUAL option results in COMMENTS-ONLY (no ratings/no sight-reading) – repertoire selection is also flexible when only receiving COMMENTS.
Click below to register and submit video recordings: