Every spring, the Music Teachers Association of California holds a statewide exam called the Certificate of Merit. Students spend the entire year preparing for this event that tests them on theory, sight-reading, technique, and performance. It is a rigorous exam that holds both student and teacher to the highest standard. All institutions recognize results from this exam. They have been imperative in promoting students pursuing a college career, whether they continue a career in music or not. Congratulations to the following students who passed the Certificate of Merit exam this year. I would also like to extend an extra congratulations to students who received state honors. State honors are awarded to students who performed exceptionally and passed the theory exam with a high percentage score. Well done, students!

• Julia Messenger, Level 1 – State Honors

• Brianna Cisneros, Level 2 – State Honors

• Siwei Wang, Level 2 – State Honors

• Ava Rosenthal, Level 3 – State Honors

• Jaden Nguyen, Level 3 – State Honors

• Lily Rosenthal, Level 3 – State Honors

• Israel Kaller, Level 4 – State Honors

• Benjamin Heick, Level 6 – State Honors

• Ethan Kung, Level 6 – State Honors

• Hazel Lloyd, Level 7

• Evelyn Kung, Level 8

Every winter, the Redlands, Riverside, San Bernardino, and Temecula Valley MTAC branches hold the Inland Empire Festival. This festival is a themed competition, this year being Contemporary composers. Students were required to perform original compositions for a panel of professionals that judged on technical and interpretive ability and artistic presentation. These students were judged and awarded for the highest standard of performance. Congratulations to the following students!

• Lily Rosenthal, Solo I – Honorable Mention

• Ava Rosenthal, Duet I – 3rd Place

• Lily Rosenthal, Duet I – 3rd Place