Every spring, the Music Teachers' of California Association holds Certificate of Merit evaluations for piano students at El Camino College. Piano students take a theory, ear-training, sight-reading, technique, and repertory evaluation before an adjudicator. Students who pass all of the sections of the test are awarded the MTAC Certificate of Merit for their level (primer through advance levels). All piano students must be registered for this program by the end of October.

The goals of CM are as follows:

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

•To provide practical goals to help students maintain a steady and focused appreciation of their musical studies

•To encourage students to strive for musical excellence

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

For more information on Certificate of Merit go to www.mtac.org