Playing the piano or singing as a soloist can be a lonely activity. It requires lots of time alone practicing and preparing without really being social. Parental encouragement and support is essential for a great experience!
Students are not obligated to do any events outside the studio but ‘peer pressure’ usually wins out and we go as a group!
OMTA teachers (and I) support these events: Fun(damentals) Fair, Composition Recital, Trophy Festival and District Festival.
Nebraska Music Teachers support State Festival, Non-Competative Festivals and National Competitions.
I have had students in all these events at one time or another and will continue to encourage students to pursue perfection without intense pressure!