JURIED EVALUATIONS

In the world of music, the juried evaluation is the equivalent of a standardized test or final exam. In music schools, students must perform for a jury (composed of other faculty members, some not within the same discipline) as part of their final grade. This is a way of ensuring standardization and some level of objectivity in a profession where there are high levels inviduality and subjectivity.

In the Pittsburgh area, the Pittsburgh Piano Teachers Association provides an annual Piano Evaluation event in May, where students must perform for another teacher as judge. The performance includes theory, technical skills and musical literature. A written test and essay are required for higher levels. These events are wonderful ways for students to gain affirmation of their skill and progress, and provide significant incentive to continue progressiing to the next level.

For non-piano students the availability of juried evaluations is more limited, but do exist. The Pennsylvania Music Teachers Association holds an annual "Dorothy Sutton Festival" which provides ajudication of students on all instruments. This festival is primarily for students beyond the beginning levels and does include a theory portion.

KMI students are required to participate in some sort of juried evaluation annually, and are exempt only if the parents insist or if progress is insufficient to advance to the next level.