Student Achievement Testing (SAT)
Event Information
Levels I - V Testing Date: March 14, 2026
Levels VI - XII Testing Date: March 21, 2026
Location: Covenant Fine Arts Center, Calvin University, 1795 Knollcrest Circle SE
Enrollment Deadline: January 16
Repertoire Selection Deadline: January 16 for all levels
Fee: $35
Special thanks to our 2025 event sponsor, West Michigan Piano!
WHAT IS STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT TESTING (SAT)?
The Achievement Testing Program is sponsored by the Michigan Music Teachers Association and administered by the various local associations throughout the state. The program is a systematic, graded study incorporating the following:
PERFORMANCE: Three pieces of differing styles performed for a judge
THEORY: Written tests
TECHNIC: Scales, chords, arpeggios, cadences
AURAL AWARENESS: Hearing/labeling of musical components
SIGHT READING: Playing new music at sight
TRANSPOSITION: Transposing short melodies or pieces
The five elements of testing are representative of basic keyboard musicianship. The program is divided into thirteen levels to enable a student to participate from elementary through high school.
WHO CAN PARTICIPATE IN THE S.A.T. PROGRAM?
Any school age student or adult studying with a teacher who is a member of Michigan Music Teachers Association may participate in the program.
WHEN AND WHERE DOES S.A.T. TAKE PLACE?
Student Achievement Testing is scheduled annually in the spring, usually during March. S.A.T. Centers are located throughout the state, each Center being affiliated with a local MMTA affiliate.
IS THERE A FEE?
A fee is required to participate in the annual program. This covers the cost of test and curriculum printing, rental of facilities and equipment, performance judges, and certificates and trophies.
WHY SHOULD A STUDENT PARTICIPATE IN THE PROGRAM?
Growth realized in preparing for the Student Achievement Tests is invaluable. The program offers the same kind of motivation for learning and recognition for achievement that students obtain for other parts of their education, encouraging a sense of accomplishment while developing commitment and self-discipline. Complete information is located in the Student Achievement Handbook.
STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT TESTING is no longer associated with SEMI-FINALS AND STATE DAY. Michigan Music Teachers Association has made them separate events.
AWARDS AND TROPHIES:
Certificates are awarded to all participants. Graduated trophies are awarded every two years to students receiving a score of at least 70% each year. All five areas of testing must be at the same level each year. If a student skips a year or fails to qualify the second year, the next year will be considered the second year. If a student misses more than one year, the next year of participation will be considered the first year. The higher level of the two years of participation will be inscribed on the trophy. Any high school senior is eligible for a trophy providing the score is at least 70% and the student has participated for two years.
