The Music Teachers’ Association of California® (MTAC) sponsors a music study program entitled Certificate of Merit® (CM). Initiated in 1933, the CM Program now involves approximately 30,000 students annually statewide. 

 

The goals of the CM Program are:

 

• To provide a systematic and comprehensive plan to develop performance skill, technique, ear training, sight reading/singing and understanding of music theory.

• To develop practical goals to help students maintain a steady and focused approach to their musical studies.

• To encourage students to strive for musical excellence.

• To create opportunities in which students may share their music with others.

 

How the CM Program Works:

• A detailed CM Syllabus has been created and designed for each of the instruments. 

• There are specific set requirements for each of the eleven CM levels. Your child’s teacher will decide on the level that is appropriate.

• •   Student Registration takes place from October 1 through October 31. Your child’s teacher will register your child through our secure online registration system. Students must be age 5 or older as of October 31 (the CM Registration Deadline) to participate in the CM Program.

• Students work with their teachers on selected literature, technique elements, sight-reading, theory and ear training for their enrolled level.

• Registered students participate in an annual Evaluation program, which is conducted from mid-February through April throughout the state of California.

• Based on the Evaluation, students receive a written performance assessment by a State-approved Evaluator.

• Students will also complete a written theory exam, which includes an ear-training test component.

• All written results and theory tests are provided to the student by their teacher after all evaluations are complete statewide.

• Upon successful completion of all components of the evaluation, students receive an official MTAC CM Certificate.

• Senior medallions will be awarded to eligible high school seniors.

• Students who have applied for Convention and demonstrate exceptional skill at his or her evaluation may be selected to perform in annual MTAC State Convention Recitals.

 

I know that you and your child will benefit tremendously from this wonderful educational opportunity and experience.