I am an active member of the National Guild of Piano Teachers, the largest, non-profit organization of piano teachers in the world.
All of my piano students have the opportunity to participate in non-competitive annual individual “guild auditions”. The audition consists of students playing anywhere from 1-20 pieces in a private audition room with one judge. After the audition, the judge will provide the student with a “report card” with comments which inspire the student to continue his/her study of music and to come back next year showing progress.
Students of all ages and levels are invited to participate in the guild. While the standard audition requires everything to be memorized, there is also a “Hobbyist” category where memorization is not required. Students who enter the audition playing only one piece receive a “Pledge” certificate, if they play 2-3 pieces, they get a “Local” certificate, then District (4-6 pieces), State (7-9 pieces), National (10-14 pieces), and International (15-20 pieces).
Participating in the guild has many benefits. The guild provides students with an incentive to set concrete goals towards the learning, memorization, and performance or repertoire. When students have done the work to prepare for Guild and complete a program, they feel a strong sense of accomplishment. Also, the intense effort of preparing for Guild can significantly improve students’ playing skills.
Parents are advised that their children play only against a standard of excellence in the Auditions and do not compete with each other. The Auditions afford an annual musical “check-up” under an outside adjudicator. Through national recognition and awards for student achievements, the Auditions acknowledge progress and encourage all pupils to continue the study of piano.
Students who participate will receive a certificate, report card, and membership pin in either bronze, silver or gold. If you would like additional information about this opportunity, feel free to contact me!
