What is Certificate of Merit (CM)?
Certificate of Merit (CM) is a stimulating educational opportunity
and experience for students who study with a teacher who is a
member
of MTAC. Initiated in 1933, CM is sponsored and run by the MTAC
and now annually involves approximately 30,000 students statewide.
Program
Certificate of Merit outlines a detailed year-by-year curriculum
of study for the successful and
effective learning of a musical instrument through the publication
of comprehensive syllabi
(one for each instrument) and a system of yearly evaluations.
During the evaluations, experienced adjudicators hear students
perform selected literature, technique elements and sightreading,
and
students complete a written theory exam, which includes an ear
training component. Following the evaluation, students receive
a
comprehensive assessment of their performance.
A successful evaluation results in a certificate being given,
in recognition that the student has achieved the specified requirements
for the specified level (representing one year) of study.
The Certificate of Merit program in California also offers performance
opportunities for outstanding student performers.
Student eligibility
Participation is limited to those studying one of the following
instruments with a member of a local branch of the MTAC:
• Keyboard
• Violin, viola, cello
• Flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, saxophone, trumpet, horn, trombone/euphonium
• Harp
• Voice
Enrollment
Students are enrolled by their teachers, using a secure online
database system, in the fall for participation in the following
spring. Annual evaluations are held between mid-February and early
April, on specific dates arranged by the local branch.
Your MTAC teacher will supply all additional information.
