Music competition for kids? (middle school, college, to move)

[librarySue]

I'm not looking for a competition exactly...in NY the School Music Educators Association sets up a day in each region where music students at all levels go and perform a solo or duet or trio and a judge scores them on predetermined criteria. It isn't really a competition since there aren't prizes, and there are no official comparisons of scores. Although Once you reach a certain level and grade, (level 4, grade 9) your Scores are used to determined who goes to a regional all state chorus, band or orchestra. But it starts at level one with very young children (mostly those who take private piano lessons)

It's a great experience for kids because the judges are always super supportive and offer good critiques.

Anything like this in NC?

[suedonym]

i was in band from middle school through high (and played some in college).

Some counties have an all county orchestra or band, and basically you have to move up through the school system levels to qualify (some exceptions may apply).

school bands (particularly marching) have competitions both in and out of state arranged by the schools. again, this is mostly at the high school level and beyond.

I am not familiar with anything as you describe it.

[twingles]

Yes, there is something like that down here. My nephew did it in the fall as did my neighbor's son. It was in Orange County though if I remember correctly (although the kids I'm referencing are from Wake) . If I don't get back to you DM and I'll get the info from my sister. It might not start till middle school though, unlike NYSSMA (if that's what you are referring to).