Growing up in NY state, we had NYSMA solo contests, which featured graded solos of our choice. But here in IL, they’re called IMEA contests, and instead of featuring solos, they require a slow and fast Ferling study (no choice of which ones, they are assigned each year).

I’ve prepared lots of students on these and have judged them a few times, and it really seems that these are way too hard for 80% of the kids. Rather than spoon-feed kids the really intricate ornaments in the slow etudes and have them plow through the fast ones week after week to build the tempo, I wish IMEA would allow solos like we played in NY.

It was enjoyable for the kids, probably more interesting for the judges, and everyone got to choose a piece that was appropriate to their skill level. What is the procedure in other states out there?

Any thoughts?