For our 80th anniversary, MusicFest Northwest is proud to introduce our two new brand new class series: Introductory Masterclasses and BIPOC and Women Composers classes. We aim to evolve our accessible options each year, and we can’t wait to see an even wider variety of musicians study with us this year. Learn more about our new classes below! 

INTRODUCTORY MASTERCLASSES 

Students who are looking for a non-competitive option where they will still receive in-depth feedback from one of our renowned adjudicators can count on our Introductory Masterclasses to be a great space for them! Memorization is not required, and students may play any piece of their choice that is 6 minutes or less. Beginner to intermediate places are ideal for these classes. In addition, pieces do not need to be completely polished in the Introductory Masterclasses. Check out our division pages to see which grade division you fit into today: Introductory Masterclasses are available for most age groups in most divisions. Note: where appropriate, accompaniment is expected. Email office@musicfestnorthwest with any questions. 

 “I am an 12 year old clarinetist and I’ve been taking lessons for 1 year! I don’t have my music memorized but I would love to receive feedback from one of your adjudicators. Would this class be right for me?” –Yes, the Introductory Masterclasses would be great for you!

“I’m an adult tenor. I haven’t taken lessons in awhile; I want to sing a piece that is fairly new but I don’t feel that a competitive division is right for me. What classes could I do?” –The Voice Introductory Masterclass would be great for you! You’ll receive feedback, but no competitive score. And it’s great that you’re memorized, but memorization isn’t required.

BIPOC AND WOMEN COMPOSERS CLASSES 

Welcome to the Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) and Women Composers Class! As we celebrate diverse voices in music, we invite you to prepare a piece composed by a BIPOC or Female Presenting Composer. This class is offered at the Adjudicator’s Choice and Competition Class levels. Note that accompaniment is required when appropriate, and memorization is required for competitive classes. Please enjoy this new opportunity to expand your repertoire knowledge and highlight underperformed composers! 

 For your selection of diverse repertoire for these classes, peruse the following links.

Institute for Composer Diversity (click “Search” in the upper right corner for more ways to filter repertoire)

Diversify the Stand (avenue to purchase legally obtained sheet music for competition)

SongHelix (resource database for filtering diverse vocal repertoire)

Extended registration for MusicFest Northwest ends on February 28: click here to join a brand new class! Needs-based scholarships are available by submitting your application.