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2014-2015 Talent Development Program

Handbook for Students and Parents





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Survival Guide to the ASOs Talent Development Program

Success in the Talent Development Program rests in the hands of the student. Each participant
should assume personal responsibility for meeting or exceeding the expectations of the
program. Requirements fall into four primary categories:

Instruction
Private Lessons/Daily Practice minimum 10 hrs/week of private practice to prepare
for weekly lessons; always come prepared and early for lessons, review absence policy
thoroughly

Concert Reports three (3) written reports based on ASO classical concerts and a
summer program report due by calendar deadline via email to ASO staff

Summer Music Program required of all students, based on teacher recommendation;
Azira G. Hill Scholarship Fund provides up to 50% of total tuition, not to exceed $2,500,
as well as limited funding for exceptional needs

Assessment
Technical Jury appropriate scales/arpeggios, etude, and solo piece performed
unaccompanied for a professional musician panel that provides feedback to review with
private teacher

Performance Jury public solo performance with accompaniment; students receive
feedback from a professional musician panel to review with private teacher

Advisements biannual meetings for each student with private teacher, family, and
staff to review progress and set goals; serve as the primary assessment point for a
students ability to succeed in the program

Probation and Dismissal failure to meet designated deadlines or program
requirements will result in the student being placed on probation or dismissed, refer to
Handbook for delineation of terms

Engagement
Enrichment Orchestra/Band ensemble outside of school orchestra/band; required for
all students

Atlanta Symphony Youth Orchestra (ASYO) all eligible are required to audition

GMEA All State all students must audition and participate in by junior year in high
school

Community Performances all students are expected to perform in the community to
spread awareness and support of the program



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Table of Contents
Welcome 4
History 5
TDP Benefits 6
Eligibility and Selection 6
Expectation of Participants 7
Assignment of TDP Faculty 7
Lessons and Practice 7
Private Lesson Absence Policy 8
Juries 8
Advisements 9
Musicale 9
Performance Attire 9
ASO Concert Attendance and Reports 10
Summer Music Programs 10
Enrichment Orchestra/Band 11
Event Attendance and Calendar 11
Probation and Dismissal 11
Leave of Absence 12
Voluntary Withdrawal 12
Additional Information 13
Parental Involvement 13
Student Biography and Headshots 13
Accompanist/Recording Sessions 13
Community Outreach 13
Music Theory 13
Regional and National Competitions 13
Postsecondary Planning 14
Child Protection Policy 14
Allocation Policy for Azira G. Hill Scholarship 15
Exceptional Need Policy and Instrument Loan Policy 16

Appendix
Sample Advisement Document 17
Student Biography Guidelines 21
Concert Report Guidelines 22
Summer Music Program Report Guidelines 23
Exceptional Need Request Form 24
Azira G. Hill Scholarship Award Letter and Recipient Agreement 25
Letter of Agreement and Commitment 26
Events and Deadlines to Consider 27
Sample Practice Log 28

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Welcome to the Atlanta Symphony Orchestras Talent Development Program!

Your hard work and personal commitment to studying classical music have earned you
membership in this unique and select program. We at the ASO are committed to your success
and look forward to working with you throughout the coming years. The requirements are
rigorous, but the rewards are great. This handbook is designed to help you navigate the basics
of the program. Please read through carefully and completely. If after reading the handbook you
have questions you are encouraged to contact ASO Education Department staff members to
seek clarity and guidance. We are in this journey together.






Atlanta Symphony Orchestra Mission Statement
The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra (ASO) and its affiliated members are committed to build on
our foundation of artistic excellence. We unite in our desire to serve and to expand our
audience through innovative programming, broader venues and increased educational
opportunities while balancing artistic growth with financial soundness. We share a heritage of
passion for the music. We embrace our responsibility to be a vigorous part of the cultural fabric
of our community and to strive to reach national and international audiences.



Talent Development Program Statement of Purpose
The mission of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestras Talent Development Program is to identify
and develop musically gifted and motivated African American and Latino classical music
students for acceptance into top music programs in preparation for careers as professional
musicians.


















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History of the Talent Development Program

Mrs. Azira G. Hill, Atlanta
Symphony Orchestra
(ASO) Board Life
Director, initiated efforts
for a more inclusive
Atlanta Symphony
Orchestra beginning as
early as 1989. Mrs. Hill,
who regularly attended
Atlanta Symphony
Orchestra concerts,
believed diversity on the
concert stage would
result in diversity in the
audience as well.

Recognition of the need
to increase the number of
classically-trained African American musicians in classical music led to the creation of the Black
Talent Development Program. The program was created by the Atlanta Symphony Associates
(ASA) Action Committee (AC) for Audience Development in the Black Community, under the
leadership of ASA President Marcy McTier and Action Committee Co-Chairs Azira G. Hill and
Mary Gramling. The members of the AC included notable figures from the Atlanta business,
education, and arts communities who were unified in their belief it was imperative to make the
ASO and its programs more representative of the diverse metro Atlanta community. The
program was developed over a four year period of time through extensive planning meetings
that sought input from educators and musicians. Funding to launch the program came from
significant fundraising efforts from the AC members and support from the Atlanta Symphony
Orchestra.

With sufficient funding in place, the induction of the inaugural class of the Black Talent
Development Program took place on September 13, 1993, at the Woodruff Arts Center.
Throughout the years, the Program has continued to evolve and expand, including the creation
of the Azira G. Hill Scholarship Fund, which was established in November 1999 to provide
financial assistance to allow students to attend prestigious national summer music programs.

Another major change occurred later when the ASO opened admission to African American
students from all counties in the Greater Metro Atlanta area. In 2003 the program was expanded
further to include Latino students as they were also underrepresented in professional
orchestras and the program adopted its current name: the Talent Development Program.
Funding and community support for the Program also increased through the years, including
significant financial assistance from the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation and The Goizueta
Foundation, among others.

Currently, the Talent Development Program maintains a class size of 25 African American and
Latino students from several Greater Metropolitan Atlanta public and private schools, as well as
home school families. Over the years, more than 100 students have benefitted from the
Orchestras long-term commitment to increasing diversity on the American orchestral stage.
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Talent Development Program Member Benefits
The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra is committed to offering scholarships to up to twenty-
five (25) African American and Latino classical music students in grades five through
twelve to participate in the ASO Talent Development Program. This is a program for
students who are dedicated to classical music and committed to preparing themselves to
be music majors at highly-selective music conservatories and university schools of
music. The ASO Talent Development Program offers students the following:

Tuition for weekly, one-on-one instruction with a top professional teacher
Tuition assistance to attend a summer music program (recommended by teacher)
Performance opportunities
Scheduled progress assessments and review of goals
Scheduled group family meetings and information sessions
Social events and fellowship with other families in the program
Complimentary admission to designated Atlanta Symphony Orchestra concerts for
student and family members
Audition preparation and support for the Atlanta Symphony Youth Orchestra (ASYO)
through private lessons, other musical competitions, summer music programs, schools
of music, and music conservatories
Master classes, workshops and demonstrations by accomplished professionals

The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra takes great pride in the quality musicians it develops through
its intensive Talent Development Program. With that in mind, the Atlanta Symphony Orchestras
policy is to audition students who have graduated from the Talent Development Program and
who have also successfully completed their training at a college or conservatory. Students
applying to audition for openings in the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra should identify themselves
as graduates of the Talent Development Program in their cover letter and resume.

Talent Development Program Eligibility and Selection
Fourth through ninth grade African American and Latino students in all Atlanta metropolitan area
public, private and home schools who currently play a symphonic instrument are eligible to
audition for membership in the Talent Development Program (TDP). All applicants must be
participating members in their school's instrumental music program if one is available. Students
may audition on the orchestral instrument of their choice. Auditions for membership are held
each spring as openings occur. Finalists are selected on the basis of demonstrated skills,
musical potential, and teacher recommendation. Students must have a serious commitment to
growth and improvement on their chosen instruments, and a desire to pursue classical music as
a career.

Those students named as finalists will be assigned a teacher by the Talent Development
Program and will participate in two to four trial lessons with the TDP teacher during the audition
process. New members will be selected from the group of finalists; their names will be
announced at the end of the audition process.

The first year in the TDP is a provisional year for all entering students. During the students first
year, the parents, the TDP teacher, and staff will follow the students progress closely and
communicate regularly. In order to attain full membership in the TDP, students must
demonstrate their talent and commitment to the study of their instrument and classical music as
measured by teacher evaluations, jury evaluations, attendance at required events and
advisement meetings. At the end of the first year, the student and their parents will meet with
the staff and their TDP teacher to review the students musical progress, as well as their
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demonstrated talent and dedication during this provisional time. Following this meeting, a
determination will be made regarding the students continued membership in the TDP.

The TDP is a selective program for students who intend to study classical music beyond high
school graduation and is designed to serve these students as a pre-career development
program. Therefore, the TDP searches for students who are truly passionate about classical
music. The successful TDP student needs to have strong parental and family support and the
commitment of their time, encouragement and resources. The curriculum, structure, and
performance expectations of the TDP require a level of dedication beyond that of simply an
extracurricular interest. If, at any time during a students membership in the TDP, classical
music is no longer the focus of their intended postsecondary study, the student is required to
notify the ASO staff of their change of plans and voluntarily withdraw from the program.

Expectations of Talent Development Program Participants
The TDP is a rigorous instructional program. From entering the program until high school
graduation, each TDP student should demonstrate dedication to excellence in musical
achievement. Individual growth will be determined by evaluating the students attention to the
areas outlined; this growth will be evaluated through the jury and advisement processes
discussed in this handbook.

Assignment of TDP Faculty
The TDP funds weekly private lessons for each student. On average, students receive 40
lessons per year. Attending summer camp replaces the weekly lessons for the duration of the
camp. In addition, teachers are not required to schedule lessons during their vacation. The TDP
will assign a private teacher to each student upon entering the program. These teachers
are ASO musicians or top level, highly qualified music teachers in the metro Atlanta area. The
student is expected to remain with this teacher throughout the year. However, if the working
relationship between teacher/student/family should become problematic at any time, the teacher
or family is to contact the ASO staff to discuss concerns and explore options. Problem
resolutions must be coordinated by the ASO staff before action is taken.

Students and their families are not authorized to make teacher changes. The ASO staff
leading the program will coordinate all changes.

Lessons and Practice
Students are required to attend regular weekly lessons with the assigned TDP teacher. The
TDP teacher is to be considered the students sole private teacher. The students private lesson
with the TDP teacher should be a top priority in his or her schedule. It is the responsibility of the
student and family to arrange the time and location for lessons with the teacher. Students
should arrive ten minutes early for lessons with their instrument, music and any other necessary
accessories in order to unpack and be ready to play at the appointed time. Should a student
anticipate an absence, it is the students responsibility to give the teacher at least one week
notice of absence. Lesson attendance will be reviewed regularly as part of the students ongoing
evaluation. A pattern of excess absences, either excused or unexcused, will result in being
placed on probation. The student and parents should discuss all decisions affecting the
students musical study, including individual instruction, large ensemble participation, chamber
ensemble participation, competitions, summer music program auditions, etc., with the TDP
teacher.

Structured and focused practice is essential. Students are expected to spend a minimum of 10
hours per week preparing for private lessons. Students are expected to keep a practice log.
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Time required for ensemble practice or performance prep should be considered additional
practice time.

Private Lesson Absence Policy
Excused an absence with one weeks notification provided to TDP Faculty for any of the
following reasons:
Illnessstudents must notify their teachers as soon as possible. If an illness is sudden,
occurring on the day of a lesson, please notify the teacher as soon as it is determined
that the student will be unable to attend the lesson.
School music events
College preparatory tests or college visits
Family events, such as weddings and vacations
Conservatory/Music School Auditions
Participation in National or Regional Music Competitions/Honor Orchestra/Band

Lessons should be rescheduled to an agreeable time with the TDP Faculty.

Unexcused or Excessive Tardiness:
Any absence without one week notice or for insufficient reason, including traffic, as
determined by the teacher is deemed unexcused.
Teachers are not obligated to reschedule lessons missed because of an unexcused
absence.
The students family must pay for the cost of the lesson for any unexcused absences.
Should a student be late to a private lesson in excess of two times, subsequent
tardiness will result in family responsibility for paying 50% of the cost of the lesson.

Juries
Juries are music students examinations; the juries are used to evaluate students progress.
Every student will play before a panel of professional classical musicians at two (2) juries each
year. Juries determine if students are meeting the performance standards and help determine
a students success in the program.

Technical Jury appropriate scales/arpeggios, etude, and solo piece performed
unaccompanied

Performance Jury public solo performance with accompaniment, also known as the Spring
Recital

For the technical jury, each student must submit hard copies of their solo piece
(unaccompanied) and for the performance jury, each student must submit original hard copies
of both their solo piece and the accompaniment score.

Failure to submit these materials by the calendar deadline to ASO staff will result in automatic
probation. Student juries are a requirement of the program and lack of participation due to
failure to meet music submission deadline could result in dismissal from the program.

Should the students piece for the recital require piano accompaniment, an accompanist is
provided at the dress rehearsal, an outside rehearsal, and at the recital.

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Following juries and upon completion of the jury reflection survey, students, parents and TDP
teachers will receive copies of the evaluation forms in order to discuss the students
performance and progress with the TDP teacher at the next lesson.

Should a students jury overall evaluation be below average, the student will be placed
on probation.

Advisements
Essential to the success of every instructional program is the communication of goals,
standards and evaluation tools. Each TDP student will receive individual counseling from an
advisement team consisting of the assigned TDP teacher and ASO staff. These meetings will
establish individual goals, review progress, and address any concerns of the student, parent,
teacher, or staff. For students in the 10
th
through 12
th
grades, advisements will review repertoire
required for conservatory/school of music auditions. Students will also complete online self
evaluations following each jury.

Parents and students must participate in at least two (2) advisement meetings each
year.
The dates and times available for the scheduled advisement meetings are listed in the
calendar. Students are required to coordinate with their TDP teacher to schedule their
advisement at the dates/times provided by ASO staff.
High school students may be asked to provide documentation of academic achievement.
A parent, student, teacher or ASO staff may request additional advisement meetings at
any time.

Musicale
The annual Musicale is a fundraiser for the Talent Development Program and features students
in the program. Based on faculty and staff recommendation, students will perform in small
ensembles or as soloists. At the Musicale, two or three students will be selected to share their
summer music program experiences with the audience.

Students that do not perform in the Musicale or Recital are required to attend and act as
greeters, ushers, or serve in another volunteer position.

Performance Attire
Formal attire Musicale, Recital, and Evening performances
Gentlemen: Black tuxedo, white tuxedo shirt, black accessories including dress shoes
and socks
Ladies: Black formal, floor-length dress or black formal, floor-length skirt/pants and black
blouse, black dress shoes
Semi-formal attire Community performances or as audience members, ushers, or greeters
Gentlemen: Dark suit (not tuxedo), long-sleeved shirt, tie, dress shoes
Ladies: Dressy dress (not cocktail), dressy skirt/pants and blouse, dress shoes

NOTE: It is strongly suggested that students take their instruments when being fitted for
performance garments and play a bit while wearing the clothes to determine comfort. Families
are encouraged to share, for example, out-grown clothing, with others in the TDP or youth
orchestras.


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ASO Concert Attendance and Reports
Listening intelligently to orchestral repertoire is a necessary skill for every serious musician.
Therefore, students are required to attend at least eight (8) ASO classical concerts each
year. Students must submit written reports electronically for three (3) of the ASO
classical concerts that they attend. The reports must be submitted by the deadlines
designated in the TDP calendar each year. Reports should be submitted to the ASO staff via
email. Refer to the appendix for the Concert Analysis Requirements.

Failure to submit these reports by the deadline will result in the student being placed on
probation.

To encourage regular concert attendance and as one of the benefits of being a part of the TDP,
each student may use his/her badge to request tickets to ASO Classical concerts. The ASO
provides complimentary admission for the student and family, up to the limit of immediate family
members. Students may use their badge for classical, pops, family and/or youth orchestra
concerts, depending on seat availability. Students or parents should call the WAC Box Office,
404-733-5000, on the day of the concert to inquire if TDP student passes will be honored.
(Normally, if at least 10% capacity is available for the concert, student badges will be honored.)
Tickets may be picked up at the box office any time after 6 p.m. Present your TDP badge to the
box office to receive your tickets. If your badge is lost during the season, notify the ASO staff
immediately. Replacement badges will cost $10 each. If additional tickets are needed they can
be purchased at the regular price.

Students must provide tickets and programs as proof of attendance. Tickets and
programs should be brought to final advisements after the Recitals. Students may
submit photos of tickets and programs as proof of evidence.

Summer Music Programs
Attending a comprehensive summer music program is essential to a students musical growth
and development and is a requirement for all TDP students deemed ready by their TDP teacher.
A summer music program should provide total musical immersion, including private lessons,
master classes, chamber ensemble participation, orchestra/band participation, music history
and theory, and the opportunity to interact with musicians from other regions. Summer camp
programs should be approved by a TDP faculty and ASO staff. It is important to begin the
search for a summer program by November for the following summer. Students should discuss
their plans for summer music programs with their teachers, other students, parents, and their
advisement team. Summer programs will require students to prepare an audition recording.
Please be aware of the dates that applications and audition recordings are due for the programs
you select.

During the first advisement of each school year, students will announce their intention to attend
a summer music camp per faculty recommendation. Should a student not attend a summer
music program, the student will be provided with weekly lessons in lieu of receiving financial
assistance to attend a summer music program.

Parents, it is important to start planning financially for this summer experience early. We
realize that the cost to attend these programs may be beyond the reach of some TDP families.
For this reason, in 1999, the TDP established the Azira G. Hill Scholarship Fund to provide
financial assistance for students to attend these summer programs. You will find more details
about the Azira G. Hill Scholarship in the appendix. Because the costs of the summer programs
cannot be totally covered by the Hill Scholarship, TDP students are encouraged to seek funding
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from other sources such as: part-time jobs, community groups, relatives, friends, competitions,
and scholarship opportunities. Many summer programs offer assistance through their own
scholarships.

Prior to entering the eleventh (11
th
) grade, a student must have attended at least one (1)
four to eight (4-8) week out-of-town summer music program.

Students are to write a report of their summer experiences and submit it to the ASO staff at the
start of the school year by the calendar deadline. The guidelines for this report may be found in
the Appendix.

Enrichment Orchestra/Band
Enrichment orchestra/band is an ensemble that is in addition to the students school group.

All eligible TDP students are required to audition and participate in an enrichment
orchestra/band each year during their membership in the TDP. All TDP students must have
participated in an enrichment orchestra or band prior to entering the eleventh (11
th
) grade.

In addition, participating in competitive auditions is an important element in the musical
development of TDP students. Therefore, all TDP students must audition, if eligible, for the
following enrichment orchestras/bands:

Atlanta Symphony Youth Orchestra (ASYO) rising 8
th
through 12
th
grades are eligible.
Should a student audition for a seat in ASYO, but be unable to meet the financial obligations,
the student should apply for the scholarships available. Participating in ASYO fulfills the TDP
requirement of participating in an enrichment orchestra/band.

Georgia Music Educators Association (GMEA) All-State Orchestra/Band 6
th
through 12
th

grades are eligible. All TDP students are only required to audition for Round 1 of GMEA All-
State Orchestra/Band each year. Students must have successfully auditioned into and
participated in GMEA All-State Orchestra/Band prior to entering the eleventh (11
th
) grade.
Students are not required to participate in GMEA All-State every year. Participating in GMEA
All-State does not meet the TDP requirement of participating in an enrichment orchestra/band.

Enrichment orchestra/band requirements may be waived at the discretion of TDP faculty.

Event Attendance and Calendar
Each TDP student is required to attend all events and meet all deadline indicated on the
calendar. The requirement includes events in which the student may or may not be performing,
such as the Recital and/or Musicale. If not performing, students will be required to assist as
ushers or volunteer in other ways.

Probation and Dismissal
The Talent Development Program is dedicated to nurturing a high standard of personal
discipline, responsibility, integrity, and musicianship. TDP students are expected to conduct
themselves in an exemplary and respectful manner at all times during lessons, rehearsals,
performances, at summer music programs, and at all other program functions.

Specific reasons for possible probation or dismissal from the TDP are delineated below. Should
any of those reasons pertain to a specific student or should a student fail to meet the
expectation criteria specified in any of the sections of this Handbook, the student will have a
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probationary meeting. At that time, the student, parents, staff, and faculty will meet to address
the specific concerns. During this meeting, the participants will outline a plan that the student
must follow to be reinstated to fully participating member status. Each case will be handled on
an individual basis. When a student is placed on probation, some or all of the privileges may be
suspended. This probationary period will be for a length of time as determined in the
probationary meeting. At the end of that designated time, a probationary review will take place
and ASO staff and faculty will make the decision to reinstate or dismiss the student.

A student may be placed on probation for any of the following reasons:

Excessive absences or tardiness (either excused or unexcused).
Failure to complete concert attendance and analysis requirements
Failure to meet deadlines designated on the TDP calendar
Failure to submit original hard copies of jury music by calendar deadline
Inappropriate behavior at a summer music program and/or ASO function
Consistent disregard of any other program policies and procedures outlined in the
handbook
Receiving below average on two consecutive juries:
Student will be subject to immediate dismissal from the TDP following an
advisement meeting.
Student may audition for re-entry into the TDP after one calendar year if
the student is in the 9
th
grade or below.

If a student is placed on probation more than 2 times in one season, the student will be subject
to immediate dismissal from the program.

Note: When a student is dismissed from the TDP all benefits will cease at the date of
separation from the Program.

Leave of Absence
Should a student become temporarily unable to fulfill the student obligations of the Talent
Development Program, that student may request a Leave of Absence from the program for a
defined period of time. This period of time shall not exceed three (3) months. The written
request for leave must be accompanied by specific reasons for the request, along with the
approximate date the student plans to return to the program. If the leave of absence is
approved, the student will not receive weekly lessons during the designated time period, but will
be able to attend ASO concerts using the TDP student badge. Additionally, attendance at
program events such as recitals and parties will become optional. Prior to resuming full
participation in the program, the student and parents will be required to meet with the
advisement team.

Voluntary Withdrawal
The TDP appreciates the many talents of its students and understands that a student in the
TDP may decide to pursue other interests. Should there be a change in a student's personal
goal of majoring in music at a conservatory, college or university, or should a TDP student no
longer wish to adhere to the policies and procedures of the TDP, the student must inform the
ASO staff of this and voluntarily withdraw from the TDP.

If a student who has voluntarily withdrawn should decide at a later time to apply for re-admission
to the program, this must be done through the regular application/audition process.
Note: When a student withdraws from the TDP, all program benefits cease immediately.
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Additional Information
Parental Involvement
Having a student in the TDP involves the entire family. The role of the parents in the TDP is
vital to the success of the students. The parents role is to be supportive of their childs desire to
be a classical musician. If it becomes apparent to the parents that classical music is not their
childs desire, it is also their role to be supportive of the childs decision to pursue other
interests. A student cannot be successful if he/she feels he/she is participating merely to please
someone else.

It is understood that parenting a child in the TDP is extremely demanding; parents essentially
have a child in two schools at the same time. As the ASO is a nonprofit organization with
limited resources, we are requiring each parent to volunteer to help staff with certain TDP
events. At least one parent is expected to attend all scheduled meetings.

Student Biography and Headshots
Each student must submit a biography at the start of each school year and notify the ASO staff
as changes occur. Headshots will be taken in concert attire each year. With the proper release
from the parents, these photos may be used for TDP publicity. A directory of all TDP students
will be made available to each family.

Accompanist/Recording Sessions
An accompanist is provided as needed for official TDP events, such as the Musicale and the
Recital. The accompanist may be available to record for audition applications. The student
must request these sessions through the ASO staff at least two (2) weeks prior to the scheduled
session. The TDP will cover the cost of an accompanist for a rehearsal and recording sessions
for approved purposes; however, it is the students responsibility to provide accompaniment
parts or score to the pianist. If the request is not made in advance and/or approved in advance,
the fee for the session will become the familys responsibility.

Community Outreach
The TDP is highly acclaimed throughout the community for its commitment to excellence in
classical music, and it is often requested for students from the program to perform in venues
outside of the Woodruff Arts Center. It is also important for the program to gain more
awareness, and we accomplish this by giving outreach performances. Students are expected to
perform in the community when called upon by ASO staff when their schedule permits.

All community outreach on behalf of the ASOs Talent Development Program will be
coordinated by ASO staff. If a student is approached by someone outside of ASO staff for a
community performance for the TDP, the student should immediately contact ASO staff.

Music Theory
Students should work with their teachers to identify any available opportunities for the student to
study music theory. If Music Theory is offered in the students high school, the student must
register for that class.

Regional and National Competitions
Students are strongly encouraged to participate in regional and national competitions. ASO
Staff and your TDP teacher may provide information about these opportunities, but we
encourage all students to research and identify competitions as well. If financial assistance is
needed to participate, a student may apply for financial aid using the exceptional needs
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process. All requests for financial assistance must be submitted to the ASO staff at least five
(5) weeks prior to the scheduled event and payment deadlines.

Postsecondary Planning
During the latter part of the students sophomore year, the student, teacher and parents should
begin discussions about choices for postsecondary study. During the students junior year, it is
strongly encouraged that students visit several different schools of music and music
conservatories, take lessons from prospective teachers and communicate with TDP alumni and
musicians about their experiences. The students should be working on the repertoire required
for auditions by this time. Students should research requirements for specific music programs.
During the fall of the students senior year, their preferred list of places to apply should be
finalized. The students must request, complete applications, and arrange for auditions. Please
be mindful of school application deadlines, and work hard on your academic studies because
GPA matters.

Child Protection Policy
The Atlanta Symphony Orchestra values the safety of all adolescents in our programs. All ASO
Education Staff have completed training in child safety and protection under the policy and
standards set by the Woodruff Arts Center.
































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Allocation Policy for Azira G. Hill Scholarship Funds

The Azira G. Hill Scholarship is awarded to current students in good standing in the ASO Talent
Development Program who are accepted into approved summer music programs. Students
receive funds for up to 50% of the total cost of tuition, room, and board, not to exceed to $2,500.
For example: If your camp costs are $4,000 you will receive $2,000 from the Hill Scholarship. If
your camp costs are $5,000 you will receive $2,500. If your camp costs are $6,000 you still will
receive only $2,500.

Students are encouraged to seek additional scholarship assistance from the summer music
programs to which they are accepted as well as from other sources (orchestra scholarship
programs, private foundations, etc.) Should this aid, combined with Hill Scholarship funds,
exceed the total fees for tuition, room/board and private lessons, the excess will be retained in
the Hill Scholarship account for future use.

To be eligible for Hill Scholarship funds, students may not be on probation and must
adhere to the following procedures and timetable outlined below:

As soon as students have selected a summer music program from among those
programs that have accepted them, they must immediately send the ASO staff:
Written proof of acceptance
Invoice of total tuition, deposit amount, scholarships awarded, and remaining
balance from summer camp institution
Signed and completed W-9 from summer camp institution
Name and phone number of contact in the Financial Aid or Admission Office
Mailing address for the tuition payment
Signed Scholarship Award Letter and Recipient Agreement

*If documentation is submitted less than 3 weeks prior to camps payment deadline,
student must provide confirmation of deadline extension from summer camp institution.

*Failure to submit all documentation required to process the students scholarship award will be
at the discretion of the ASO staff to approve.
Checks for the approved scholarship amount will be written directly to the summer music
program after all documentation is received.

Requests for Azira G. Hill Scholarship funds may be denied if:

A student is currently on probation.
If the procedures stated above are not followed
Reported inappropriate behavior has occurred during a previous summer music program
experience

It is required of all students that receive financial assistance from the Azira G. Hill Scholarship or
the Exceptional Need Funds must read, sign and return the Scholarship Recipient Award and
Agreement form by the deadline set by ASO staff.





16
Exceptional Need Policy
In the event of exceptional financial need, families may submit an Exceptional Need Financial
Aid Form, found in the appendix. The deadline for submitting these forms for summer programs
is designated in the TDP calendar. All requests for exceptional need assistance must clearly
illustrate that additional funds from outside sources have been sought and that those sources
have been denied or proven insufficient.

ASO staff will determine the available resources and the allocation of the resources based on
the requests received.

Instrument Loan Policy
One of the key ingredients of successful musicianship at the highest level of achievement is an
instrument of appropriate quality -- properly maintained and dutifully stewarded. With that in
mind, the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, on behalf of its Talent Development Program, owns
several instruments which may be made available to students for their use during part or all of a
students tenure in TDP. The current inventory of instruments the ASO has to loan is modest,
and resources for acquiring instruments are limited. Consequently, availability of instruments is
limited, and it is possible that all requests may not be filled.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Instruments are only loaned by request of TDP teachers and will be
assigned at the sole discretion of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra. Approval is based on faculty
input, student achievement, and seniority.

POLICIES:
There are expenses required by families in conjunction with the loan of an instrument.
The following basic policies will be in effect. Please read them carefully and make sure you
address any questions to staff prior to signing the loan form:
A loaned instrument will stay with the student as long as they are in good standing in
the program
The family will insure the instrument for its full replacement value
The family is responsible for any regular maintenance or repairs
The instrument must be returned in the same condition as when it was received
The ASO may cancel any loan agreement for any reason, requesting immediate
return of the instrument
Upon graduation, dismissal, or voluntary withdrawal, the student must return the
instrument within two (2) weeks of the event


Note: There is no policy that permits the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra to purchase or to assist
in the purchase of an instrument for a students personal ownership.







17
APPENDIX

Sample Document
Talent Development Program Advisements
Name:

Instrument:
Grade:
Member Since:
Private Teacher:
Parties Present: Date of Advisement:
JURY Technical Jury 2014 Performance Jury 2014
Comments &
Suggestions from
panelists:
Student Feedback Teacher Feedback
Overall Performance
What did you do well?
What could you have
done better?
Musical goals between
now and next jury
Notes:











18
PLANNING
Overview

Summer Camp/Exceptional
Need Form
Scholarships/Competitions
College Visits
College Repertoire
College Applications/ Auditions
College Preparation

Sophomore:
What repertoire have you begun preparing for college
auditions?

Junior:
What schools will you visit this year? What schools are you
planning on applying to?

Have you discussed with your teacher which
schools/teachers would be a good fit?

Senior:
What auditions have you already played? What auditions do
you have coming up?

What scholarships/grants have you researched/applied for
college tuition?

Goals Feedback
Scales/Arpeggios
Etudes/Practice
Exercises/Methods
Solo Pieces
Orchestral Excerpts
Rhythm/Intonation
Sound Production
Phrasing/Expression/Musicianshi
p

19

PROGRESS

Does Not
Meet
Expectations
Meets
Expectations Notes
Program
Requirements
Commitment to
Program Mission
Prepared for
Weekly Lessons
Musicale
Concert
Reports/Attendance
Summer Camp
Report
ASYO
All State
Enrichment
Ensemble
Technical Jury
Required Activities
on TDP Calendar
Spring Recital
Rising Junior
Requirements

ASYO, GMEA, Enrichment Ensemble, Summer
Camp
Meets Deadlines

Applied to Summer
Camps
Additional
Questions:

Do you rent, own, or loan your instrument?
If you rent or loan, what is your plan to acquire an instrument prior to graduation?
Does your school offer AP Music Theory? Are you enrolled?
Do you have an updated biography?
Do you have a financial plan for summer camp/college?
Do you have a commitment to attending a quality music program after high school?
Do you proactively seek information and growth opportunities in your chosen instrument?
20
CONCLUSION

Check As
Applicable Advisement Outcomes Reason (if applicable)
Student Remains in Good Standing
Student on Probation
Student Leaving Program
Sophomore Commitment (if applicable)

New Student Recommended to Continue

Student Recommended for Musicale

Below are items that arose during the advisement.

From
Suggestions, Questions, or
Concerns
Family
Student
Private
Teacher
Staff

Notes:






21
Student Biography Guidelines

Student biographies should include the following information. It should be written in paragraph
form using the third person.

Full name
Age
Grade
Instrument
Age when you began playing the instrument
When you entered the TDP
TDP Teachers name
Orchestras/bands/wind symphonies you play in
Summer programs you have attended
Competitions you have participated in
Awards you have received
Optional:
Why you chose your instrument
What other interests you have
What you would like to do when you graduate from the TDP
Other teachers you have studied under
If you have appeared on any radio or TV shows please list, i.e. From the Top

Samples:
Sodienye Sodie Finebone, a senior at Campbell High School, is one of Atlantas
most promising young tuba players. Sodie began playing the tuba in the sixth grade at Griffin
Middle School in Smyrna, Georgia. In the seventh grade he was selected for GMEA All-State
Band and by the eighth grade he made first chair, a seat he has maintained throughout his high
school career. In his freshman year, Sodie was selected to participate in the prestigious Atlanta
Symphony Orchestra Talent Development Program (TDP). As a TDP student, he currently
studies under ASO principal tuba player Michael Moore. Through his participation in the TDP
he has been encouraged to attend nationally renowned summer music programs. Most
recently, he attended The Tanglewood Music Festival in Stockbridge, Massachusetts where
studied under Mike Roylance of the Boston Symphony. Sodie has been a principal member of
the Atlanta Symphony Youth Orchestra since he joined in his sophomore year. In addition to his
musical talent, Sodie has played football, rugby and is active in a number of clubs in his high
school. Sodie plans to be a tuba performance major at one of the nations leading music
conservatories with aspirations of performing with a major orchestra and teaching tuba at a
university or conservatory.

Keanu Mitanga began playing the violin at age four with teacher Martha Yasuda. At the
age of nine, he was selected for the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra Talent Development Program.
He has been a member of the Atlanta Symphony Youth Orchestra for the past three years, and
is currently the associate concertmaster. Keanu studies with Justin Bruns of the Atlanta
Symphony Orchestra. Keanu has attended many summer music camps and festivals, including
Meadowmount School of Music, Boston University Tanglewood Institute, Sewanee Summer
Music Festival and Interlochen Center for the Arts. Keanu has been a merit scholarship recipient
at almost all of the summer camps he attended. In 2012, Keanu won the ASYO Concerto
Competition and first prize in the CFUMC Rising Stars Competition. Keanu is currently a high
school junior at Atlanta International School.

22
CONCERT REPORT GUIDELINES

You must write three (3) reports on ASO Classical concerts you attend. Your report must be
submitted electronically in paragraph form using correct grammar, punctuation and spelling.
Please email your concert reports to [email protected].

Concert Title: _______________________________________________
Date: _______________
Conductor: _________________________________________________
Soloist: ___________________________________________________

Please include the following information for at least two selections performed. Please
also include an overall evaluation of the concert. Please use complete names:
Selection
Composer and Dates
Period and Genre

1. Name something historically or compositionally important about the piece.

2. Write about how your instrument contributes to the performance of the piece. Include
thoughts on technique, style, melody and rhythm if appropriate.

3. Write about another instrument unrelated to yours using the same criteria.

4. Please share your personal reaction to this musical selection and the performance of the
conductor, ensemble and soloist.

SAMPLE of description of one selection:
Pavane pour une infante defunte, MAURICE RAVEL
Interestingly, Ravel writes that this piece is not in fact a funereal lament about the death of a
young infant, but in fact an "evocation of the pavane that could have been danced by such a
little princess".

The violins (in fact, the entire string section) serves to establish a lush melodic theme, rich with
swells and gentle but powerful articulations (sforzandos) to bring out the strong points of the
melody.

Ravel seems to have loved the harp's magical timbre quality. He uses it extensively in his
works, and the Pavane pour une infante defunte is no exception. Though it does not take a
major role, the harp's enchanting arpeggios create smooth transitions between solo wind
themes, string swells, and entire-orchestra themes. Additionally, the atmosphere that the
occasional background harp arpeggios create contribute to the piece's hypnologic fluidity.

I loved this piece! It seems to capture exactly what Ravel describes: "a pavane which could
have been danced by such a little princess [...]".

*Please contact ASO staff for samples of complete concert reports following these guidelines.

23
SUMMER MUSIC PROGRAM REPORT GUIDELINES
Returning students are required to submit a one to two page typed report describing your
summer program experience.
This report must be written in paragraph form using correct grammar, punctuation and spelling.
Summer music program reports are due electronically by the date designated on the TDP
calendar.

Your report should include:

Name of your summer program

Duration of your summer program

Location of your summer program

The musical focus of your program, for example: Orchestral, Chamber, Practicing

How you grew as a musician

What your typical day was like

What musical selections you performed

You may also include:

Something special that happened during your stay

Memorable people you met, for example: composers, conductors, teachers, new friends

Memorable experiences you had

Would you recommend this summer experience to other TDP students? What about this
summer program would cause you to recommend or not to recommend this program?

Photos















24
Exceptional Need Request Form
Deadline for submission of this application is designated in the TDP calendar. The amount of
assistance you may receive will depend upon your need, the total number of applicants, and the
available funds. All information provided will remain confidential.

Potential Summer Camp Programs
Please list the camps and their respective information for which you would need exceptional
need funds.

Camp Name Total Tuition
Costs (including
room/board and
private lessons)
Additional
Program Costs
(i.e. uniforms,
travel, elective
courses, etc. )

Azira G. Hill
Scholarship
(will be granted
based on total
tuition costs50%
of tuition up to
$2500)
Specific
Exceptional Need
Amount
Requested (if
accepted and
attending this
camp)





Potential Awards and Scholarships

Name of
Scholarship/Award/Competition
Amount Requested Amount Awarded








Note: Applying for financial aid from the program and/or outside sources is required as a
prerequisite for applying for Exceptional Need Funds. Please include all requests for financial
aid along with a record of the results of these requests. Attach additional awards and
scholarships if applicable.



________________________________ ______________________
Parent/Guardian signature Date
Student Name
Grade
Age
Preferred Phone Number
Email
25
Azira G. Hill Scholarship Award Letter and Recipient Agreement

Please review the information below and confirm its accuracy. Contact ASO staff if any
adjustments need to be made.

Student Name:

Camp Attending:

Total Tuition Costs:

Azira G. Hill Scholarship Awarded:

Exceptional Need Awarded:

Total ASO Contribution:

Family Contribution:

Deposit Amount Due:

Deposit Due Date:

I, __________________________, current student in the TDP, have reviewed the information
above and confirm that everything listed is correct. I and my family understand that we will be
responsible to reimburse any funds distributed to this camp by the ASO through the Azira G. Hill
Scholarship Fund or Exceptional Need Fund if the following should occur:

*The TDP student receiving funds decides not to attend camp after nonrefundable funds have
been distributed to the camp

*The TDP student does not complete camp either due to dismissal or voluntary withdrawal
and/or does not receive credit for attending the camp

By signing below, you acknowledge that you have read, understand and agree to the terms
listed above. Please note, no funds will be dispersed to a camp without a signed award letter.


_______________________/____________________ ________________
TDP Student: Print your name, then sign Date



_____________________/______________________ ________________
TDP Parent: Print your name, then sign Date






26
LETTER OF AGREEMENT AND COMMITMENT
FOR TALENT DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM STUDENTS AND PARENTS

I ________________________________________________, as a student member of the
Talent Development Program, am committed to making progress in playing my instrument
through regular and prompt attendance at my lessons, focused daily practice, concert
attendance, summer music program participation, and to all other required activities as stated in
the Handbook. I confirm that I have read and understand the program polcies and guidelines of
the TDP

Handbook and I agree to fulfill the expectations of a TDP student.

I/We______________________________________________________________, as parent(s)
of a student member of the Talent Development Program, are committed to supporting our
child_____________________________________, in their musical studies through
encouragement, communications, providing a quiet environment for practice, providing on-time
transportation to their lessons, rehearsals, performances, concerts, attending all required
meetings, volunteering at TDP functions, and actively participating in the selection of and
applications for summer music programs and for college. I confirm that I have read the TDP
Handbook and that I understand the program policies and procedures.

By signing below, we understand the requirements of the Talent Development Program, and
agree to abide by the above outlined and all policies and guidelines set forth by the TDP
Handbook to remain in good standing with the program.



___________________________________ _________________
Student Signature Date

__________________________________ _________________
Parent/Guardian 1 Signature Date

__________________________________ _________________
Parent/Guardian 2 Signature Date

27
Events & Deadlines to Consider:

There are many additional deadlines and opportunities to consider. All students should discuss
opportunities with their TDP teachers. Please share additional events and deadlines with ASO
staff to add to the list for future reference for all TDP families.

ASO Season Calendar

Summer Music Program Application and Recording Deadlines

GMEA All State Auditions

School Orchestra/Band Concerts

Offsite Musicale Rehearsals and Offsite Recital Rehearsal with Accompanist

Exploratory Lessons during Junior Year

College Audition Material Preparation/Repertoire List

College Application and Pre-Screening Recording Deadlines

FASFA Deadline

Enrichment Orchestra/Band Application Deadlines and Auditions
Emory Youth Symphony Orchestra, Atlanta Youth Wind Ensemble, Georgia Symphony Youth
Orchestra, Metropolitan Youth Symphony Orchestra, Atlanta Trumpet Ensemble, Urban Youth
Harp Ensemble, DeKalb Youth Symphony Orchestra, Buckhead Youth Orchestra, Athens Youth
Symphony, Youth Orchestra of Greater Columbus, Emory Junior Chamber Orchestra

Scholarships and Competitions
From the Top, Hilton Head Youth Symphony Orchestra Concerto Competition, Blount-Slawson
Young Artists Competition, Rising Star Competition, Tim Redovian, Atlanta Federation of
Musicians Student Scholarship Awards, Sphinx, Posse, Hope Scholarship, Charleston
Symphony Concerto Competition, Harlan Duenow Young Artist Concerto Competition and
Scholarship

Summer Music Programs
Aspen Music Festival, Boston University Tanglewood Institute, Bowdoin International Music
Festival, Brevard Music Center Summer Institute, Credo Chamber Music, Domaine Forget
Academy, Eastern Music Fesitval, Franklin Pond Chamber Music, Furman University Band and
Orchestra Camp, Heifetz International Music Institute, Indiana University Summer Music Clinics,
Interlochen Summer Arts Camp, Florida State University Summer Music Camps, John Mack
Oboe Camp, Joe Alessi Seminar, Kennedy Center Summer Music Institute, Luzerne Music
Center, Meadowmount School of Music, Montecito International Music Festival, National
Orchestral Institute, Northwestern National High School Music Institute, National Youth
Orchestra of the United State of America, Sejong International Music Festival, Sewanee
Summer Music Festival

28
SAMPLE PRACTICE LOG
DATE ASSIGNMENT ACCOMPLISHED NOTES TIME