Certificate of Merit

Through a standardized curriculum, Certificate of Merit® provides a uniform pathway for music student growth at each level. The Certificate of Merit® program is available for piano, violin, cello, viola, flute, French horn, oboe, clarinet, saxophone, bassoon, euphonium, trombone, trumpet, voice, harp and guitar.

The Certificate of Merit® program is exclusively open to MTAC Teachers. Visit our Membership Page to learn more about joining MTAC. To look for an MTAC Teacher for yourself or your child, you can use the Find a Teacher tool.

 

Overview of Program

  • Each instrument has its own 10-level or 11-level syllabus, detailing a specific set of requirements. Teachers will decide the appropriate level for each student.

  • Students and teachers work together on level-appropriate selected literature, technique elements, sight reading, theory, and ear training.

  • Students participate in an annual Evaluation between mid-February and March and receive a virtual musical assessment.

  • Students complete a written theory exam which includes an ear training component.

  • Students are given a 10 day-window to complete their virtual Evaluation but may record their repertoire pieces any time before their deadline.

  • Upon successful completion of the Evaluation, students receive an official MTAC CM Certificate for their level.

  • Students who complete the Advanced level of their instrument may move onto the Panel and Young Artist Guild Auditions. Learn more about this program here.

  • Senior medallions are awarded to eligible high school seniors.

  • All CM students who meet the State Honors award requirements will receive a special seal on their certificate.

  • Students demonstrating exceptional skill during their Evaluation may be invited to perform live at annual MTAC State Convention Recitals.

Enrollment

  • Students must be age 5 or older by October 31 and added to their teacher’s MTAC Online Roster to participate.

  • Teachers register their students in October and complete the student’s repertoire list by December 15.

  • Application fees are non-refundable and non-transferable.

For Teachers

  • MTAC teachers who have paid their membership dues by July 31 may participate in Certificate of Merit®.

  • For new applicants and former members wishing to reinstate, all required membership and reinstatement applications and documents, along with correct payment, must be submitted to the MTAC State Office by July 31st, in order to participate in Certificate of Merit®. Please note that MTAC cannot be responsible for lost or late submissions.

  • CM Frequently Asked Questions

2023-24 CM Dates: CM Region/North Region 3 ONLINE Evaluation
Application Registration Open: September 1, 2023
Application Registration Close: September 30, 2023
Application Fee Payment Due Date: October 5, 2023
Application Edit Close Date: December 15, 2023
Media Submission Due Date: February 20, 2024
Results Publish Date: March 11, 2024