OMEA ALL-STATE ORGANIZATIONS
(BAND, CHORUS, ORCHESTRA, JAZZ ENSEMBLE, CHILDREN’S CHORUS)

A PRIMER OF BASIC INFORMATION FOR NEW TEACHERS IN OKLAHOMA

The OMEA All-State organizations are listed above.  While they are related, they have separate organizations for operation and audition.

The OMEA All-State organizations perform at the January 23, 2010, afternoon concert after rehearsals begin on the previous Wednesday or Thursday. These performances represent the finest work in the state, and provide excellent motivation for both the students and teachers.

Step One:  Read the most current revision of the OMEA Rules, Policies, and Procedures, called RP&P (found in Quick Links on your right) as they pertain to your division. 

Step Two: Make certain your membership in MENC/OMEA is current.

Step Three: Go to the specific division web site and read all information about the group for which you would like students to audition. (Band, Chorus, Orchestra, Jazz Ensemble, or Children’s Chorus.)  Elementary teachers must also read the Circle the State with Song section.

Step Four: Find the list of materials that will be used for the auditions of your group. These are in the fall issue of OKLAHOMA MUSIC and on our web site. Some groups will require purchase of music. Most Oklahoma major music stores carry this material, (Saied’s, Tulsa; Pender’s, OKC; as well as Senseney Music in Wichita, KS.

Step Five: Double check application deadlines for your group, and read the forms carefully.  Deadlines are strictly observed.  Most of the groups have three levels of fees, those entered by first deadline, those entered by second deadline, and emergency entries. The fee rate is much higher for each student after the first deadline passes.

Step Six: Prepare your students for the audition, beginning NOW. The auditions are extremely competitive, but not beyond the reach of students from any size school, provided they are willing to practice.  Each group includes selected students from the smallest schools to the largest. Some groups have rehearsal CDs available, and they are wise investments.  Read sample audition judging forms, and go to the preparation sessions at conventions.

Step Seven: Mail and/or e-mail your entry forms and fees before the deadline day.  All fees are mailed, and receipt of these fees must coincide with your audition entry form. (Follow the instructions of your particular division.)  Any material mailed via USPS should be certified, with a return receipt card.  Do this mailing yourself—do not allow anyone else to do it. There are no exceptions for exigencies caused by school secretaries, teacher aides, or students.

Step Eight: Arrive at the audition site early.  Teachers must be available to assist with the audition process as directed by the site manager.  Teachers will not be able to stay only for the audition times of their students, then leave.  Prepare your students for audition through mock auditions at school.  Be sure they know what to expect.  Audition times must be observed strictly. The student will be disqualified if he does not appear at the scheduled time.

 Step Nine: Be aware of the method your division uses to inform students who are advanced to either the group or the second level of audition.

THROUGHOUT THE PROCESS—IF YOU HAVE A QUESTION—ASK!!  Any experienced teacher, the Chair of your division, the VP of your division, or any OkMEA officer will be happy to help you.

This can be one of the most exciting and inspirational experiences in the lives of your students. It can also change your teaching for the better. Get involved.