for Music Performance Assessments and continual evaluation for the quality of the MPA experience
of Florida music programs for all students
to recognize best practices in excellent music programs
Ensuring safety and fiscal responsibility, and equity in adjudication and student access.
To support quality music education experiences and encourage life-long involvement in music.
Membership renewal for the 2020-2021 school year is open. Member schools are eligible for interscholastic music events such as Concert, Marching, and Solo & Ensemble Music Performance Assessments (MPA). Invoices were mailed to current member schools addressed to the Principal, Music Department Head, and the bookkeeper, and can also be printed from the Membership Status page. New schools who have not previously joined FSMA should complete and mail the New School Enrollment Form. The deadline for the early payment discount has been extended to September 30.
The NFHS Sports Medicine Advisory Committee (SMAC) and the NFHS Music Committee offer guidance on how state associations can consider approaching the many components of returning to high school marching band activities across the United States.
The NFHS, NAfME, and the NAMM Foundation recommend the following guidelines for handling musical instruments during the COVID-19 school shutdown period. These guidelines are designed for use by music educators and educators may use these guidelines when teaching students and parents how to clean instruments.
Postponed: With health and well being as our priority, the leadership of FSMA, in consultation with leadership at the Center for Fine Arts Education, has decided to postpone the 2020 FSMA Leadership Training until July, 2021. Applicants to the 2020 program will be provided priority application status for 2021.
FSMA is providing a professional development opportunity that will ensure that current and future component leaders have the necessary skills to find success in their position. Current district chairs, component board members, and anyone else who may be interested in a leadership position is encouraged to apply.
After careful deliberation, the Florida School Music Association and the component associations (FBA, FOA, and FVA) have decided to cancel the remaining 2020 District and State Music Performance Assessments to ensure the safety of our students and teachers.
FSMA provides opportunities for realistic and constructive program evaluation through the sponsorship of solo-ensemble and large group Music Performance Assessment (MPA) events organized by the Florida Bandmasters Association, Florida Orchestra Association, Florida Vocal Association, and the Florida Music Education Association. Most MPA events are open to the public, and the community is encouraged to attend.
Marching Band Directors and Staff should be reminded that rehearsals associated with marching band are just as rigorous as athletic practice and deserve equal care. We recommend scheduling outdoor rehearsals during the early morning and evening to avoid the hottest part of the day, allow students to carry personal water bottles, and provide regular breaks to replenish water and cool off in the shade. See the articles below from BandDirector.com and the National Federation of State High School Associations
Music students have lower dropout rates, higher attendance rates, and higher graduation rates. Print and post this flyer in your school to spread the word!
During this legislative session, FMEA & FSMA are working to advocate on behalf of our members to protect and promote quality comprehensive music education in all Florida schools. See our legislative platform below.
If your school has a music vacancy that you would like posted, please see the Job Bank over on the FMEA website. The FMEA Job Bank is a free service to Florida schools and teachers who would like to teach in Florida. Jobs listed there will automatically be deleted after 90 days, however you will receive an e-mail confirmation that includes a link to extend, edit, or remove your job posting.
The Mission of the Florida School Music Association is to provide leadership, advocacy, and services for school music programs in support of quality music education experiences for students.
