Description: Music Progressions is a KMTA sponsored program that is designed to be a suggested curriculum of independent music study. The non-competitive annual evaluation measures a student’s progress in all areas of musicianship. It consists of ten progressive levels. Each level requires proficiency in performance, music terminology, rhythm and pulse development, sight-playing, scales, written theory and ear-training. Students receive a certificate of participation, a ribbon, written adjudicator’s critique and results from music listening and theory tests.

Rules: Students may enter at any level. Participation is not based on year in school or years of music study. Rather, students enroll in one level for all categories, usually corresponding to the student’s music theory level. For detailed explanations of requirements and options for each level, please refer to the Music Progressions Curriculum Guide, available to download at www.ksmta.org. Also available is the Music Progressions Resource Handbook, a teacher’s manual that contains resources and suggestions to help prepare students for the event.

All Levels Include:

• Performance: one memorized solo & one solo, contrasting style, memory optional. There are no restrictions on repertoire; method book pieces and arrangements are allowed, as well as original compositions. Optional additional projects include performing an ensemble work, a solo on a different instrument, reading a lead sheet, and improvising.

• Music Understanding, Vocabulary, Functional Skills, Sightplaying, Listening & Written Theory — see Music Progressions Curriculum Guide for details for each level. Optional additional projects, such as writing a paper on a musical figure or creating a music-themed work of art are also encouraged.

Eligibility and Fees: Students of all ages are eligible to enter. COMING SOON: Enrollment fees and procedures for 2027.