Music Showcase Proposals
Accepted May 1-June 1
The TMEA Clinic/Convention features around 50 small and medium ensembles in music showcases in open areas of the convention center. Perform 30 minutes of music for an enthusiastic audience of educators, students, and families. Proposals are accepted online May 1-June 1.
Note: The following groups are not eligible for music showcase performances. Apply instead through each Division’s invited ensemble process for a formal concert setting:
- Bands, orchestras, full-size jazz ensembles/stage bands
- All grade school level mixed choirs, treble choirs, tenor-bass choirs
- Elementary choirs/large instrumental ensembles
- High school percussion ensembles
- High school mariachi ensembles
Showcase Your Ensemble
Provide your performing group’s name, a detailed description, and the exact number of participants (which can’t increase after selection). Attach 1-3 audio files, totaling no more than 15 minutes. Submit your proposal online by June 1 for consideration.
Music Showcase Selection Factors
These factors will be considered when evaluating proposals and selecting music showcases.
Performance Quality
Applicants must submit up to three recordings via the TMEA portal by June 1
Venue Compatibility
Groups must be suitable for the specific features and limitations of the assigned performance venue
Genre Diversity
TMEA seeks a varied lineup across different musical genres to enrich our showcase
Performance Priority
Special consideration is given to performers who also participate as clinic demonstration groups and to ensembles based in Texas
Music Showcase Venues
North Lobby
- Brass and Saxophone Ensembles
- Maximum 8 performers
- Acoustic only – Amplification of any instument is not allowed
- Built-in stage
- 8 chairs and 10 music stands
- Electrical is not provided
- No bus or truck passes provided
West Lobby
- String and Woodwind chamber ensembles
- Maximum 12 performers
- Acoustic only – Amplification of any instument is not allowed
- Platform stage – 16′ wide, 8′ deep, 16″ high
- 12 chairs and 14 music stands
- Electrical is not provided
- No bus or truck passes provided
Bridge Hall
- Large Ensembles, Vocal Ensembles, String, Electric String, Percussion Ensembles, Jazz Combos
- Maximum 24 performers
- Amplification is allowed—Must be provided by the organization
- Platform stage – 40′ wide, 16′ deep, 24″ high
- 24 chairs and 30 music stands
- Electrical is provided
- 1 bus only and 1 truck only passes provided
- Bus Stop #1 – Theater Entrance
Proposal Policies
Review the following proposal inclusions, required agreements, and membership & registration policies.
- Performing group director information
- If TMEA Member: TMEA ID and contact information
- If Non-TMEA member: name, school/company, email, cell phone number
- Performing group name and description
- Performing group number of participants (Number of participants cannot be increased from this number if selected to perform)
- 1-3 audio files that represent your group’s musical abilities, not to exceed 15 minutes
Clinic Inclusivity Pledge
TMEA is committed to providing a positive experience for all convention attendees. We expect every participant and presenter to adhere to our association’s commitment to offering an inclusive, respectful convention environment that invites participation from all, regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, national origin, age, sexual orientation or identity, education, disability, or other unique characteristics. Participants should report any behavior inconsistent with the principles outlined here, to TMEA staff.
Scheduling & Venue Agreement
You must be available to present your music showcase on any day during the convention (Thursday, Friday, or Saturday). TMEA will schedule your performance and assign your performance venue. You will not be asked for a day or venue preference.
TMEA Clinic/Convention Media Release
By attending the Texas Music Educators Association (TMEA) Clinic/Convention, you consent to being photographed, filmed, and/or recorded. These materials may be used by TMEA for promotional or informational purposes, across various media including web and social media. Your presence implies a waiver of any rights to payment, inspection, or approval of these uses, and releases TMEA and its representatives from any related liability.
In-State and Out-of-State Membership & Registration Requirements
- Texas music educators/musicians must be current members of TMEA and pay convention registration fees
- Out-of-state educators/musicians must pay convention registration fees but, are not required to become TMEA members or, if industry sponsored must get their convention badge through their sponsoring exhibitor (not for Texas music educators/musicians)
The following are provided convention badges and are not required to register:
- Students (any level) in a clinic demonstration or Program Spotlight group
- Students (any level) performing in an Invited Ensemble concert
- K–12 students performing in Music Showcases
Timeline & Music Showcase Procedures
May 1-June 1
Music showcase proposals are accepted via the TMEA website
August 15
Proposal status is emailed to all applicants from TMEA
September 1
Applicants must verify acceptance by responding to the invitation via email using the link provided
Early October
Schedule information will be available by the first week in October—TMEA assigns all performance venues
Setup & Warm-Up
Each group has a 30 minute setup/warm-up period preceding the performance time which may not exceed 30 minutes and must be only during the scheduled performance time.
Provided Equipment
TMEA does not provide A/V equipment! Venues include a small or medium stage, music stands, and chairs. There is no storage room, dressing room, or warm-up area provided.
What to Bring
All instruments, including keyboards and sound reinforcement, must be provided by the performing group.
Need Help?
If you have comments/questions/issues with the technical portion of the submission process, please email Frank Coachman.