It is that time of year again for APA music students to start thinking about songs for the upcoming spring music concert on June 6th & 7th. It is never too early to begin selecting and preparing your music!
While it is ultimately up to your APA music teacher to help you decide on an appropriate piece, here are a few tips for our students and parents when choosing the right song:
1.) Choose a concert piece that is challenging—but not TOO challenging
Oftentimes a student will want to play or sing a song that sounds like a good fit, but once the teacher reviews the sheet music, it may be a few levels beyond the student’s current ability. That said, your teacher can often:
- Find a simplified or leveled version
- Adjust parts to better fit your skill level
If there isn’t a good version available right now, write the title in your music notebook and make it a future goal. This is a great way to stay motivated and track progress over time!
2.) Select a song that you enjoy
Performing in front of a live audience can feel a bit scary at first, so the focus should be on enjoying yourself and your music. Remember:
- Performing is not about perfection
- It’s about sharing your love of music
The more you enjoy your song:
- The more confident you’ll feel
- The more your audience will enjoy your performance
Choose something you can connect with emotionally and perform with expression.
3.) Choose music appropriate for a family audience
Select a song that is age-appropriate and suitable for a family setting.
- Voice students: double-check lyrics with your teacher
- Some songs may need small lyric adjustments
- Others may not be appropriate for a school concert setting
Many popular songs are written for adult audiences, so rely on your teacher’s guidance to find the best option.
4.) Think about “performance impact,” not just the song
A great concert piece is one that:
- Has a clear mood (fun, dramatic, calm, energetic)
- Allows for dynamic contrast (loud vs. soft)
- Has a memorable moment
Ask: “Will this song keep the audience engaged from beginning to end?”
5.) Choose a song you can confidently prepare by June
Since we are already in April, now is the perfect time to choose a piece that can be fully learned and polished before the concert. A good guideline:
- April: Learn notes, rhythms, and basic structure
- May: Build confidence, expression, and consistency
Choosing a manageable piece now helps avoid last-minute stress and makes practice more enjoyable at home.
6.) Get teacher input early
Before getting too attached to a song idea, check in with your teacher. They can:
- Confirm the level is appropriate
- Suggest better arrangements
- Offer alternative songs with a similar style
This saves time and helps students start strong right away.
Finding the right concert song can make all the difference in the success of your performance. By choosing thoughtfully and preparing early, students can feel confident, prepared, and excited to share their music.
If you have any questions, ask your APA music teacher—they are happy to help you find the perfect fit!
Tiffany Sullivan
APA Music Director