What to Wear to NYSSMA: A Comprehensive Guide for Students and Parents
NYSSMA (New York State School Music Association) auditions are a significant event for young musicians. While the focus should be on your musical performance, presenting yourself appropriately can contribute to a positive and confident experience. This guide will cover what to wear for your NYSSMA audition, addressing both practical considerations and the overall impression you want to project.
The Goal: Professionalism and Comfort
The key is to strike a balance between looking professional and feeling comfortable. You want to appear confident and prepared, but overly formal attire can be distracting and hinder your performance. Think "polished casual" rather than "red-carpet ready."
Recommended Attire:
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Dress Pants or Skirt: Dark-colored dress pants or a knee-length skirt are excellent choices. Avoid jeans, leggings, or anything too casual. Consider the fabric – something that moves easily and won't rustle loudly is ideal.
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Dress Shirt or Blouse: A collared shirt or blouse in a solid color or subtle pattern works well. Avoid anything too flashy or revealing. If you're playing a wind instrument, ensure the shirt allows for easy breathing and movement.
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Sweater or Cardigan (Optional): A sweater or cardigan can provide an extra layer of warmth, especially if the audition room is cool. Choose a neutral color that complements your shirt.
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Shoes: Closed-toe shoes are generally preferred. Avoid anything that makes noise while walking or clicking on the floor. Loafers, flats, or dress shoes are good choices.
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Accessories: Keep accessories minimal. Avoid large jewelry that might jingle or distract you or the judges. A simple watch or a small necklace is acceptable.
Things to Avoid:
- Jeans, leggings, or shorts: These are too casual for a NYSSMA audition.
- T-shirts, graphic tees, or tank tops: These are inappropriate for a formal performance setting.
- Loud colors or patterns: Stick to neutral or muted colors that won't distract from your performance.
- Heavy jewelry or accessories: These can be distracting and uncomfortable.
- Flip-flops, sandals, or sneakers: Closed-toe shoes are recommended.
Specific Considerations for Instrumentalists:
- Wind Instruments: Ensure your clothing allows for comfortable breathing and movement. Avoid tight-fitting shirts that might restrict your breathing.
- String Instruments: Consider the length of your instrument. You might need to adjust your clothing to accommodate it.
- Percussion: While percussionists might have slightly more leeway, it's still recommended to dress professionally.
Beyond the Clothes:
Remember that your demeanor is just as important as your attire. Arrive on time, be polite and respectful to the judges and other participants, and project confidence. Proper preparation and a positive attitude will significantly contribute to a successful NYSSMA experience. Focus on your music; your clothing should simply complement your performance.
In Conclusion:
Choosing the right attire for your NYSSMA audition is about presenting yourself professionally and comfortably. By following these guidelines, you can ensure you look and feel your best, allowing you to focus on what matters most: delivering a fantastic performance.
