MTNA Piano Competition Guide

The Music Teachers National Association (MTNA) Student Competitions are the most successful and prestigious student competitions in the country. For piano students in New Mexico, participating in the MTNA Piano Competition provides a unique opportunity to perform at a high level, receive feedback from esteemed adjudicators, and potentially advance to regional and national levels.

Competition Divisions

The MTNA Piano Competition is divided into several categories based on the student's age as of January 1 of the competition year:

• Junior Performance: Ages 11–14
• Senior Performance: Ages 15–18
• Young Artist Performance: Ages 19–26

Repertoire Requirements

Selecting the right repertoire is crucial for success in the MTNA competitions. The requirements emphasize stylistic variety and musical depth. Here are the general guidelines for the piano divisions:

• Stylistic Variety: Programs must include works from at least two contrasting historical style periods (e.g., Baroque, Classical, Romantic, Impressionistic, Contemporary).
• Memorization: All solo piano repertoire must be performed by memory.
• Time Limits: Each division has specific minimum and maximum time limits for the performance. Junior programs typically run up to 20 minutes, Seniors up to 30 minutes, and Young Artists up to 40 minutes. You do not need to fill the maximum time, but your program should demonstrate your full capabilities.
• Original Works: Arrangements and transcriptions are generally not allowed unless specifically permitted in the MTNA rules. Always consult the official MTNA rulebook for the current year.

Preparation Tips for New Mexico Students

Preparing for the state-level competition hosted by PMTNM requires dedication and strategic planning. Here are top tips from experienced teachers and past winners:

1. Start Early: Begin selecting and learning your repertoire at least 6 to 9 months in advance. This gives you ample time to internalize the music and refine your interpretation.
2. Perform Frequently: Test your program in front of audiences before the competition. Participate in studio classes, local recitals, and mock auditions. Playing under pressure will help you manage performance anxiety.
3. Focus on Tone and Musicality: Adjudicators at the MTNA level expect technical proficiency, but what sets a performance apart is exceptional tone production, phrasing, and a deep understanding of the musical style.
4. Record Your Practice: Use audio and video recordings to objectively evaluate your playing. Listen for balance between hands, rhythmic stability, and clarity of pedal usage.
5. Rest Before the Event: In the week leading up to the New Mexico state competition, taper your practice. Avoid over-practicing and trust the preparation you have put in. Ensure you get plenty of rest the night before.

The State Competition Experience

The PMTNM state competitions are usually held in November. Students will perform their selected repertoire for a panel of adjudicators. Following the performance, students receive written feedback, which is an invaluable tool for musical growth regardless of the competition's outcome. Winners at the state level advance to the Southwest Division competitions, and division winners proceed to the National Finals.