Competition Preparation Checklist

Okay, so if you are like me, when you're getting your students ready for a competition half of your effort is spent trying to remember all the things you are supposed to tell them before they get there.  Now I'm not talking about anything that has to do with the way they play.  I mean the sheer effort of getting your students there and in order.

Thus I have taken it upon myself to alleviate your headaches by creating a no-fail Pre-Competition Checklist.  Please let me know if I left off anything important.

Pre-Competition Checklist:

(The following is in no specific order)

1. Finish filling out any forms and submitting your checks

2. Clean student's music
                -Erase all markings except for your changes (added rit., cresc., etc.)

3. Write measure numbers on their music

4. Optional: Put Sticky Notes on each piece for easier location in the rush of the day.

5. Tell the Parent/Student
                -What time to be there
                -Where to go
                -Where to park
                -How to dress
                -What books they should bring
                -What, if any, necessary forms, payment, or test sheets to bring with them
                -Recommend arriving early

6. (If the student will be playing in front of other students) Remind them how to take a bow.

7. (If there is a written exam section) Remind them to bring 2-3 well sharpened pencils

8. Make sure you have received compensation for competition fees

9. Send a reminder email with everything in #4 and your contact info in case of emergency

10. If your students do not already have the actual book for their music make sure to bring it with you or send it with them.

11. Optional, but recommended: Explain to students and their parents exactly what to expect on the big day and remind them that the judge is not a goblin.

Ta-da!  Happy dance! You made it!!

Did I miss anything?  What else do you do before their big day?

Photo Courtesy of CanonSnapper