Imagine singing in front of judges at a district competition, and competing in group 1 and your score will determine if you move on to state or not. It is a lot of pressure because you are trying your best to impress the judges and to be confident in yourself. That is what the ISSMA (Indiana State School Music Association) competition is like.
First, Mrs.Guy, the choral director at Lewis Cass talked about ISSMA and what it entails. ISSMA Solo & Ensemble is an event put on by the Indiana State School Music Association. ¨Students have the option to either enter a solo (individual) or ensemble (group) event. He/She performs a piece of music for a judge and receives either a Gold, Silver, or Bronze rating. There are different levels of difficulty that you enter with, Level 5 being the easiest and Level 1 the most difficult. Level 1 students have the opportunity to qualify for State Solo & Ensemble by receiving a Gold Rating at the District Solo & Ensemble Contest.¨ This is not Mrs. Guy´s First year taking a group to the Solo and Ensemble contest, but it has been a while since she has. Guy said, “I’m nervous about making sure every student that is participating is 100% ready to perform. While a lot of this falls on the responsibility of the student, I want to help them be as successful as possible.” She is very excited to see everyone’s success. Guy believes there is much growth for the student musically and professionally. “No matter what rating a student receives on his/her performance, it takes a lot of courage to do this, and that’s worth celebrating!” stated the Lewis Cass Choir director.
Next, Jeni Romero, a senior at Lewis Cass gave insight on her experiences with ISSMA and what she enjoys about it. Jeni has participated in ISSMA for four years and her favorite song she sang is called, “Poor Wandering One”. This was her favorite because she enjoys a challenge. Jeni said, “ISSMA State makes you face yourself and allows you to put all your hard work out on display for those who know more than you and can guide you. I would consider it a privilege to participate at State. It’s definitely fulfilling” State is a different type of setting and is more, “self-competitive.” Romero’s favorite thing about ISSMA is being able to prepare for the challenge she may have on whatever song she chooses to perform. “You get out what you put in it. I love practicing and perfecting what I sing. There’s always room for improvement, and as a performer that is something I take seriously. Getting a gold medal is amazing but the most fulfilling thing is being proud of your work.”
Lastly, Brecken Smith, a freshman, has gone to ISSMA for the past three years. His favorite thing from ISSMA is, “…showing people what you can do and have worked for.” For Smith going to State is fun and enjoyable because he gets to spend time with his friends and display his talent.
The ISSMA District Competition is on February 8 at Kokomo High School and ISSMA State is on February 22 at Perry Meridian High School in Indianapolis. Good luck to all the ISSMA participants!
