Spring is right around the corner and for orchestra students, that means it’s almost time for the Concert Performance Assessment on March 20-25.

Concert Performance Assessment is an opportunity for middle and high school orchestras to perform for various judges to receive feedback and ratings. One portion of the music has already been prepared and practiced by the students, and the other portion is on-the-spot sight reading.

Orchestra teacher Jeanette Kuhn is looking forward to performing at Twichell Auditorium at Converse College, although it is intimidating for her to think of the amazing performers and conductors who have stood on the same stage on which she will be conducting.

“Concert Performance Assessment is the biggest thing we do all year as we are able to perform on the same stage as larger schools,” Kuhn said. “It’s also an opportunity for orchestra teachers across the state to hear how we’ve grown and developed.”

Kuhn has high expectations for her students this year since they have had high ratings in the past. Her first year at Chapman, the orchestra earned an excellent rating which was only one point away from a superior, the highest rating you can get. The orchestra earned a superior the following year for both prepared music and sight reading.

In order for students this year to earn a superior, they must focus on tone, intonation, rhythmic precision and musical effect as that will be what they are judged on.  

“It’s nice for students to have others affirm their growth and effort,” Kuhn said. “Different people have different perspectives which proves the compliments that students have heard from their friends and families.”