Student Achievement Testing (SAT)

The Student Achievement Test (SAT) is an opportunity for students provided by the Michigan Music Teachers Association (MMTA) and its local chapters. The program promotes comprehensive musicianship, helping students and teachers to set goals and measure progress across their years of study. It is available to Michigan students K through 12 studying with an MMTA member teacher.

The SAT consists of five major parts:

Students can enter at any level from Level 1A to Level 12. All five (5) modules are taken at the same level.

1

Performance

Three (3) pieces representing the student’s level and ability, chosen by the teacher and student

2

Theory

 

A written exam, including note writing, rhythm, and a short music excerpt analysis

3

Sight-reading

 

A short music excerpt is played by the student.  Transposition and harmonizing are also included

4

Technique

 

An assessment of piano skills including scales, arpeggios, intervals, and rhythm

 

5

Aural Skills

 

A listening exam consisting of intervals, modes, and rhythm. Students also play back a melody they hear.

Schedule and Location

Dedicated MMTA members and adjudicators make this test available in locations throughout the state of Michigan, usually from the end of February until the end of March.

For the Ann Arbor Area, the Performance section will be held at the Music Department of EMU University, Alexander Building.   

We are working hard to determine dates for Aural Awareness and Technique/Sight-reading.  We will have more information by November 1. 

Every effort has been made to make this program as inexpensive and widely accessible as possible.  

2024 Ann Arbor SAT Information

  • Performance and Theory:  March 2-3, 2024 at Eastern Michigan University (in-person)
  • Theory take home test:  Due date TBD
  • Aural Awareness Assessments: TBD
  • Technique and Sightreading:  TBD
  • Registration Deadline: January 15, 2024
  • For teachers:  Click here to enter Leggiero Registration System
  • Registration fees: TBD
  • For information on the SAT Handbook (2018 edition) please click here.
  • *Teachers and students may opt to continue their performance experience by participating in the Eastern District Semi-finals.  Please refer to the SAT Handbook for level, age, and SAT scoring requirements.  

For a printable map of Eastern Michigan’s Alexander Building, click here.

For a printable SAT digital release form (to authorize legally downloaded sheet music), click here.