Certificate of Merit 2027

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What is the Certificate of Merit Program? It is not a competition. The Music Teachers’ Association of California (MTAC) sponsors the music study and evaluation program Certificate of Merit (CM). Started in 1933, CM provides a solid foundation for music study through a sequential progression of 11 Levels, from Preparatory through Advanced (Level 10). Students perform repertoire, technique, and sight reading and take a theory and ear training exam, based on requirements set forth in their respective instrument syllabus.

 

CM is a hybrid program. Students can choose to complete their repertoire, sight reading and technique evaluations online or in-person. In-person exams are held in San Jose at Valley Christian Schools.

All theory and ear training exams are conducted online, regardless of in-person or online exam registration.

 

Evaluations & Awards

Students participate in an annual evaluation and receive written assessments. Their performances receive specific written feedback and ratings (Excellent, Good, Average, Weak, Remain-at-Level) from professional, MTAC-hired evaluators. Students complete an online theory exam, which includes an ear training component. 

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The following awards and performance opportunities are available:

●Upon successful completion of an evaluation, students receive an official certificate for the achieved level. 

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●Senior Medallions are awarded to eligible High School seniors who have participated in CM for three

years, including their senior year, between grades 9 and 12.

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●All CM Students who meet the "State Honors" award requirements (rating of "excellent" on Technique, Repertoire, rating of "good" or "excellent" on sight-reading, and above 80% on theory) will receive a special seal on the certificate.

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●Students may apply to be considered for a recital opportunity at the annual MTAC State Convention.

Those students who demonstrate exceptional skills during their evaluation and accept their Convention invitation will receive a special ribbon at their performance.

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CM Levels

Each instrument has its own syllabus, detailing a specific set of requirements. Teachers will assess and determine the appropriate level for each student. Students and teachers work together on selecting level-appropriate repertoire, as well as studying the enrolled level's technique elements, ear training, sight reading, and theory concepts. Eligible High School students who pass the Advanced levels of their instrument can move onto the competitive "Panel" track, where students can compete for coveted "Panel" awards and inclusion in the

"Young Artist Guild." All CM syllabi and supplemental testing materials are published by MTAC and are available online to all MTAC members, and to those students with a paid CM application for the current evaluation period.

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Enrollment

● Students must have studied with the teacher for a minimum of 6 months

●Students must be age 5 or older by September 30

●Students must be able to read English unassisted

●Students must be added to their Teacher’s MTAC Online Roster to participate

● 1  September - 1 October  teachers create online applications for each student, which must be completed by the parents by 1 October.

 

● Parents must pay the application fee by 5 October

(Application fees are non-refundable and non transferable)

● Teachers enter the Student's repertoire list by December 15

Edits may be made up to 48 hours before testing begins

●Online testing is 23 January - 2 February 2027 for our region: Alameda County, North Region 2

● In-person testing dates have not been released yet.

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