Middle school students traveled to Asia Pacific International School (APIS) for the Middle School Solo & Ensemble on April 18. Hosted by the Korea International Music Educators Association (KIMEA), the event provided students with opportunities for musical collaboration, performance, and feedback from professional adjudicators.
With participants from 13 different schools, students either performed individually or assembled small ensembles to present prepared pieces. Representing DIS, students participated in both solo and group categories as they stepped onto the big stage, showcasing months of preparation and teamwork.
This year’s event accentuated a growing interest in middle school music participation at DIS. Students voluntarily selected either solo or ensemble performances, learning to take greater responsibility for rehearsal planning and musical coordination. “I learned how to match the rest of the instruments in the band with appropriate sound,” eighth grader Shin said. Unlike other KIMEA honor bands, this event was different because there were only a few people in the ensemble. We had to decide what instruments were essential.”
To prepare for their performance, musicians held independent rehearsals outside of school to refine balance, timing and musical interpretation. “The students set up their own practice times, and I only met with them once or twice to give them feedback in a small direction,” band director Mr. Hutchings said. “They practiced hard, showed up, and returned with platinum.”
Performance ratings were determined using a standardized rubric that evaluated both musical skill and overall musicianship. “All rubrics for the KIMEA S&E events are drawn from the NAME (National Association for Music Education) USA teaching standards,” Matthew Tavares said. “This allowed judges the opportunity to make professional evaluations of students based on developmental and social factors.”
Beyond the competition, the festival encouraged students to develop confidence, independence and stronger ensemble awareness. “The solo ensemble is a good opportunity for students who are already taking lessons or practicing solos, and they can confidently go and show what they’ve been practicing hard,” Mr. Hutchings said. “It’s a good place to let you know how good you are based on feedback from judges as well.”
Students also reflected on the pressure and excitement of performing in front of judges. “One judge gave us some comments, then asked us to repeat one of our measures,” eighth grader Tony Kim said. “I think we were able to perform better on that musical part the second time, and it felt like the measure was the last hurdle.”
One of the most exciting moments of the festival came during the awards announcement in the cafeteria, where students watched a live scoreboard displaying ratings as judges uploaded results. DIS musicians celebrated multiple platinum recognitions for their performances of “Amparito Roca” by Jaime Texidor and “Darkland’s March” by Randall Standridge. Individual performers also achieved outstanding results, from classical pieces to more modern compositions; their achievements highlighted the students’ dedication and highlighted the growth and strength of DIS’s music program.
Beyond the results, the festival provided students with opportunities not only to grow as musicians, but also to strengthen skills in collaboration, communication and leadership throughout independent rehearsals and performances.“I encourage students to join these events in the future as it is truly a great event to explore music more deeply, meet new friends, and have a fun day with other like-minded individuals,” Tavares said.
