March 28, 2024

Piano students perform locally, at competition

On Saturday, Jan. 25, 16 piano students performed for their families and friends at LifePoint Assembly of God. They also performed a short program at the Southern Hills Specialty Care facility for residents and staff. The performers ranged from first-graders through high-school seniors, and even a grandparent. All performers were students of Rachel McCoy.

Seven students performed two weeks later at Graceland University for the district Iowa Music Teachers Association pre-college piano auditions. Students are required to perform three pieces of music from memory, play scales and take a theory test. Students who score a 90 percent or higher make the theory honor roll. Each level is based on age beginning with “Level A” and becoming more difficult through “Level F.”

Competing at “Level A” were Justin Hollinger and Teryn Shields. Justin Hollinger received a I-rating and was chosen as the “Level A” alternate winner (second place). Teryn Shields received a II-rating and made the theory honor roll with a 90 percent on her test. Dacy Forry competed at “Level B” and received a I-rating.

At “Level C,” Kahlan Hollinger received a II-rating and made the theory honor roll with a 94 percent.

Kylie Shields received a I-rating and was chosen for honorable mention in “Level C” (third place). She also made the theory honor roll with a 94 percent. Competing at “Level D” were Taylor Hardy, who received a II-rating, and Amy Jelsma, who was chosen as the “Level D” winner. Jelsma will compete March 15 at Iowa State University in Ames for the state IMTA auditions.