Description and Purpose of Event

The TMTA conference ensemble allows students to perform in an exciting large concert of multi-piano ensembles at the State Conference in Houston , and encourages collaborative playing in a team environment.

Eligibility

Student must pass the TMTA Theory Test (70 or higher, SA membership required).

• Grade 1 - Level 1

• Grade 2 - Level 1 or 2

• Grade 3 - Levels 1, 2, or 3

• Grade 4 - Levels 2, 3, or 4

• Grade 5 - Levels 3, 4, or 5

• Grades 6-12 - Minimum of Level 4 through the level equal to (but not above) the current school grade

• Grades 10-12 - Theory Test will not be required if they have passed the Level 9 (for Ensemble Programs)

No more than two (2) rehearsals may be missed.

Ensemble Repertoire

• Early Elementary: The Chicken Dance (arr. Matz) Score Music

• Elementary: Smoke and Mirrors (Vandall) - Score Slower Faster

• Intermediate: Beethoven Symphony No.5 (arr. Roubos) Score Music

• High School/Young Artist: Cool Breeze (Glenn) Music

• AMC Music carries a handful of copies. Please verify the availability before heading over.

New this year: Directors will provide practice recordings later this semester. 

Students will submit an audition clip playing excerpts from their pieces. 

Registration Deadline and Info

Video Audition: January 15-31, 2026

Audition Results: February 20, 2026

Application deadline: Feb. 25, 2026

To register your students, use the HMTA online application (found here).

Memorization is encouraged. Paired duets are welcome to audition together.

Event Fees

$50 registration fee per student, which also covers the performer’s conference registration.

Please make your online payment via the HMTA payment page.

Event Requirements and/or Rules

1. All performances at the TMTA Conference must be memorized.

2. Students are responsible for knowing and memorizing the music. Directors reserve the right to remove ensemble members if needed, or ask students to switch duet parts to have balanced parts.

Auditions

• Memorization is encouraged.

• Paired duets are welcome to audition together.

Dress Code

Formal. Younger ensembles might have costumes.

Awards

Performers participating more than 5 years will receive ribbons on their conference badge.

Students participating for 9 years and above will receive an engraved plaque and a $100 cash award each year.

Other Information

Check out this promotional video for the pieces and what it looks like at the conference!

Click here to view and download a flyer with detailed information.