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March 2023
"It's not about perfect, it's about effort, and when you bring that effort every single day, that's where transformation happens, that's how change occurs." - Julián Michaels.
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In This Issue
• Faculty Concert
• Mark Your Calendar
• New Referral Contest
• Summer Recitals
• Student of the Month
• Royal Conservatory Exams FAQ
• Practice Buddies – New Program
• Musical Ladder Achievements
• Teachers With a Waiting List
• Welcome New and Returning Students
Got news for the MFAA Newsletter? We welcome and encourage all submissions!
Fun and Educational Family Event
Do you want to motivate your child to practice?
Take them to MFAA Faculty Concert!
This is the perfect time to build your child’s interest in music. The MFAA Faculty Concert is an excellent opportunity for students to attend a live performance and build confidence in learning any musical instrument. Join us and experience a variety of musical genres and instruments. Watch our teachers as they perform your favourite pieces in concert.
Click HERE to purchase your ticket online. You can also contact the LAC Box office at 905-306-6000 or at 4141 Living Arts Dr, Mississauga.
Mark Your Calendar
Faculty Concert – April 23rd
Summer Recital – June 23, 24, 25
It's Summer Recital time!
We can’t wait to see our students’ performances. Our in-person recitals happen in the Living Arts Centre in the Rogers Theatre. This summer with over 650 students and all times record enrollments, this recital will take place over three days in multiple 1-hour time blocks. We will be putting students in different recital blocks based on their teachers. For students with multiple instruments or siblings taking lessons, we will make sure to put all of your recital blocks together, but you may not be with your teacher.
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about how the recitals work:
Q- How much do recital tickets cost? I’d love to bring friends/family to watch
A- The recital is completely free! The hall we’re in seats around 100 people, and seats are first come, first serve. Seating is limited, so please respect other people who may wish to bring guests.
Q- What should the performers be wearing to the recital?
A- Completely up to them! Since it is a rather big event and many people will be taking photos, we do suggest dressing nicely, but most importantly, we recommend wearing clothes that will make you feel comfortable.
Q- What time should I arrive?
A- We do recommend that family and performers arrive roughly 15 minutes before the scheduled recital block. Seats are first come first serve, but you will have to wait for the group before yours to finish before entering the hall.
Q- Are we allowed to take pictures during the show?
A- Of course! Taking pictures is encouraged; however, we do ask that no flash photography be used while the students are performing. We will also be having a hashtag contest again this year, where if you post any pictures on social media (Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter) using #MississaugaFineArtsAcademy or #MFAARECITAL then you’ll be entered for a chance to win a prize! There will also be a red carpet outside the hall to take pictures as well.
Q- How does the “stage” work?
A- The Rogers Theatre is a theatre-style room where the “stage” is at the front of the room, and seats go beyond that on a gradual incline. There is no “backstage” — parents will always be able to see their children. We ask that performers sit in the front three rows, and any guests may sit behind that.
Now’s the best time to start talking to your teachers about all of your options for the recitals! If you have any questions about the recital, need an accompanist (other than your teacher), or have any scheduling concerns, please speak with us at the front desk.
Continue to practice every day as you have been, and we look forward to seeing you on stage at the Living Arts Centre on June 23rd, 24th and 25th!
Practice Buddies - New Program
We are always trying to improve the Musical Ladder, and running the program for seven years, we know how it goes. We’ve asked around about what kids like, and there’s not much that kids love more than stuffed animals. With the help of our Practice Buddies, we’ve found a way to get students to practice more making both parents and teachers happier.
This is free for all of our students. After students pass their first apprentice test after 90 days, they get a Practice Buddy of their choice. Students will bring their Practice Buddy home and to their lessons. Practice Buddies are the most happy when they hear their friends practicing, so students will want to continue making them happy too! With the help of our students and their Practice Buddies working together, students will practice at home even more and progress faster at their instruments.
RCM Conservatory Examinations FAQ
How do I know if I am ready for a Royal Conservatory of Music (RCM) exam?
Generally, speaking with your teacher before signing up for an exam is important to ensure that the student is ready. For most students, it will take several years before reaching the level 1 RCM stages. After this, most students take approximately one year per level; however, it is essential to note that this progress depends on the individual’s practice plans, dedication, and overall musical experience. You can also see the syllabi on the RCM website for each instrument to
How do I register for an RCM exam?
Exams can be scheduled on the RCM website. You will need to create an RCM login account to book any exams. For all students of the Mississauga Fine Arts Academy, the “teacher name” is “Mississauga Fine Arts Academy,” and the “teacher ID” is “29053”. MFAA was affiliated with RCM before the option existed for the “school ID,” and as such, you will leave that field blank. You do not require a teacher’s first and last name for exam registration. Both online and in-person options are available.
How does music theory work? Do I need to complete a music theory exam?
Before booking your exams, please check with your music teacher. RCM theory exams begin at level 5 and should be taken concurrently with the practical exams. There are no RCM theory exams for levels prep to 4; however, the books exist to help students gain the knowledge required and prepare for higher-level exams. For students doing RCM 5 and above, we highly recommend doing 1-hour lessons to have time for the practical and theoretical components of the learning process.
Am I able to skip RCM levels?
Given their teacher’s approval, students can take any RCM exams that they are comfortable with. The only mandatory RCM levels are 9 and 10 for both the theory and practical components. Beginning in grade 8, there will be more subjects added for completion. Please refer to your instrument syllabus requirements.
Can I receive a high school credit for RCM exams?
Each school may run differently, so checking with your school to confirm the specific details is recommended. Students who complete their level 7 theory and practical exams (regardless of instrument) can receive one grade 11 credit. Students that complete their level 8 theory and practical exams can receive one grade 12 credit.
What is an accompanist? Do I require an accompanist?
For any orchestral instruments or vocalists, an accompanist is typically required. Please see the syllabus for the instrument in question for specific details. MFAA does not provide accompanists for students; however, we may be able to find an accompanist for you based on your level, needs, and availability. Any accompaniment lessons and auditions payments are made through the accompanist, not MFAA.
What is ARCT/LRCM?
The Associate Diploma (ARCT) and Licentiate Diploma (LRCM) are above RCM 10 level. These are intended for the most serious students and professionals looking to establish a career in music. Reviewing the RCM website for details regarding ARCT/LRCM for each instrument is highly recommended. Achieving an ARCT/LRCM certification can result in music teaching qualifications. Please see the Teacher Certification Details for details on becoming an RCM-certified music teacher.
For any additional questions, please refer to Academic Resources and Policies.
Student of The Month
Edward X
We are excited to announce that our March 2023 student of the month is Edward X! Edward has been taking piano classes since the fall of 2018. and is doing a tremendous job. Here’s what Ms. Tao, Edward’s teacher, has to say about his wonderful achievements:
“Edward is a very talented student. He practices consistently, works hard every week, and is preparing for his level 8 exam. Edward is a delight to teach.” – Ms. Tao
We also asked Edward a few questions. Here are his answers
What instrument(s) do you play? Piano, flute, glockenspiel bells.
How long have you been taking lessons? Four and a half years. I started in the fall of 2018.
What is your favourite song to play? Liebenstraum No. 3. I Played it at my school talent show and was considered the best act!
What is your favourite food? Poutine, it’s super delicious.
What is your favourite thing you’ve learned recently in class? Mendhelssohn’s Andante Sostenuto. It’s a very soothing piece when played slow, but very energetic when played fast!
What is your favourite colour? Electric violet.
Congratulations Edward! We are so proud of your achievement and can’t wait to see what you do next!
Musical Ladder Achievements
Miguel Alexander B is playing piano and his teacher is Mr. Geoff.
Martina Salazar R is playing ukulele and her teacher is Mr. Jonathan.
Kaira A is playing piano and her teacher is Ms. Shannon.
Marshella Jane B is playing piano and her teacher is Ms. Oksana.
Welcome New and Returning Students
Jeff Y
Nuwaira Z
Jalyn M
Logan W
Daven D
Divya D
An B
Abigail Joy A
Amaya K
Daren H
Raymon R
Zhara G
Mithran M
Kavir S
Sumerah K
Kiara O
Gabriella R
Rohan W
Justin L
Zoie Vivek N
Rohan S
Ying Y
Julian B
Ayana M
Rosie Y
Ananya A
Abdulrahman H
Movva A
Is Your Teacher Fully Booked?
Many teachers are very popular and quickly become fully booked. If you need a schedule change or would like to be added to a waiting list for a particular teacher, day or time, don’t hesitate to contact us, and we can add you to the waiting list. There are still limited lesson spots available. To inquire about opening in April, send an e-mail to info@mississaugafineartsacademy.com or call/text us at 905-276-0251.
Here is a partial list of who’s currently full:
Guitar
Henry G.: All Days SOLD OUT
Jonathan B.: Only TWO spots left
Max M.: All Days SOLD OUT
Michael G.: Only TWO spots left
Miguel R.: All Days SOLD OUT
Noah C.: Only TWO spots left
Yago G.: Only THREE spots left
Love R: Only TWO spots left
Joel B: Only TWO spots left
Bass
Jonathan B.: Only TWO spots left
Henry G.: All Days SOLD OUT
Michael G.: All Days SOLD OUT
Max M.: All Days SOLD OUT
Joel B: Only ONE spot left
Violin
Abigail H.: All Days SOLD OUT
Anastasiya B: All Days SOLD OUT
Angela W.: All Days SOLD OUT
Jacey H.: Only TWO spots left
Sibiya R.: Only TWO spots left
Vira B.: All Days SOLD OUT
Ukulele
Geoff M.: All Days SOLD OUT
Henry G.: All Days SOLD OUT
Jonathan B.: Only TWO spots left
Max M: All Days SOLD OUT
Miguel R.: Only ONE spot left
Noah C.: Only TWO spots left
Yago G.: Only TWO spots left
Joel B: Only ONE spot left
Piano
Adriana O.: Only THREE spots left
Amjad A.: All Days SOLD OUT
Anastasiya B: All Days SOLD OUT
Angela W.: All Days SOLD OUT
Geoff M.: All Days SOLD OUT
Jerry Z.: All Days SOLD OUT
Katrina Z.: All Days SOLD OUT
Kyle M.: Only TWO spots left
Lesya K.: All Days SOLD OUT
Mariana C.: All Days SOLD OUT
Max M.: Only TWO spots left
Maya T.: Only ONE spot left
Michael G.: All Days SOLD OUT
Nathaniel M.: Only ONE spot left
Noah C: Only TWO spots left
Oksana I.: All Days SOLD OUT
Robert M.: All Days SOLD OUT
Sam L.: All Days SOLD OUT
Shannon D.: Only ONE spot left
Tao Z.: Only TWO spots left
Vira B.: All Days SOLD OUT
Vyan V: Only TWO spots left
Yago G.: Only TWO spots left
Voice
Abigail H.: Only TWO spots left
André R.: Only TWO spots left
Angela W.: All Days SOLD OUT
Maya T: All Days SOLD OUT
Miguel R.: Only ONE spot left
Sam M.: All Days SOLD OUT
Noah C.: Only TWO spots left
Drums
Kyle M.: Only TWO spots left
Noah C.: Only TWO spots left
Cello
Abigail H.: All Days SOLD OUT
Angela W.: All Days SOLD OUT
Jacey H: All Days SOLD OUT
Nathaniel M.: Only ONE spot left
Sibiya R.: Only TWO spots left
Woodwinds
Amjad A.: Only TWO spots left
Adriana O: Only TWO spots left
Shannon D.: All Days SOLD OUT
Brass
André R.: Only TWO spots left
Jerry Z.: Only TWO spots left
