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.

Announcement!

For SAT Day 2025, the Ann Arbor Area Piano Teachers Guild will partner with the Livonia Area Piano Teachers Forum (LAPTF) to administer the assessment.  We are excited to work with our Livonia colleagues!  See below for details.  Please note that some changes may occur as we work out details in this new collaboration.  Thank you for your patience. 

 

2025 SAT Information

    • Levels 1- 6 will be administered at Schoolcraft College (18600 Haggerty Road, Livonia 48152) on March 9, 2025
    • Levels 7-12 will be administered at Eastern Michigan University (Alexander Music Building, Ypsilanti 48197) on March 2, 2025
    • Registration fees: $50

 

The Performance, Aural Awareness, and Technique portions will all take place in person at their respective locations.  Students must bring their completed Theory tests to their testing site in order to perform.

  • Registration Deadline: January 10, 2025
  • For teachers:  Click here to enter Leggiero Registration System (the system will not be open until December 6, 2024)
  • 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 SAT digital release form (to authorize legally downloaded sheet music), click here.