'Tis Solo & Ensemble Season

It's UIL Solo and Ensemble season! Here are a few tips to help make this season successful for you and/or your group:

Make Sure You Have Your Music

This is a great time to make sure that you’restocked up on the pieces you’ll be playing very soon (and hopefully are already practicing!) Keep in mind that there are quite a few pieces that are on the PML website; you’ve likely already chosen your music (with the help of your director, of course.) Since there are so many pieces, it’s wise to check in with your local Tarpley music store right away to make sure we’ll have the piece in time for you to present it to the judge. Don’t wait! Time is already running out!

Don't Leave Your Group Hanging

Set aside time to practice with your group on a regular basis. Don’t wait for someone to motivate you to practice; you already have the ability to work hard and show great progress. Do your part to give 100%! And it’s important to the rest of your ensemble that you come prepared with your part, ready to fit it in with the rest of the parts to make an awesome ensemble performance! Remember, you’re only as strong as your weakest link!

Ask Questions

Your instructor is there for you, so ask them questions! Make sure you know the correct times and places, the appropriate attire, etc.

Breathe

If you’ve put in the work, you’ll do well. When you feel nervous or stressed, just take a deep breath, inhale and exhale. Enjoy the camaraderie with your peers and the sense of a job well done, as well as the joy of making music! Even being involved in solo/ensemble is a tremendous step to your musical career, as it gives you opportunities to perform in front of people that are not necessarily your family.
Just know that you have people in your life that support you and believe in you, including us, your friends here at Tarpley Music! We’re all rooting for you!