New England Music Festival

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQs

  • What is New England Music Festival?
    The New England Music Festival is an annual musical competition sponsored by the Accordion Teachers Association of Massachusetts (ATAM), Inc. Each year, 800 contestants from all over New England (more than 3,000 entries). In 2019, adult categories were added. See the adult category information and entry form.
  • Who can participate?
    Participants must be students of ATAM member teachers
    *Note: Adult participants are not required to be affiliated with an ATAM member teacher or an ATAM member studio. See the adult category information and entry form.
  • What are the competition rules?
    • Contestant cut-off age is 22 as of April 1, current year. Adult category contestants must be over the age of 19.
    • All music must be memorized except snare solos, all duets and groups. If you are using music for a duet, please bring your own stand.
    • Time limits apply to music chosen by the students and teachers. See your teacher for guidelines.
    • Students must submit a clean copy of music to the judges in categories that apply. See your teacher for details.
    • Contact an ATAM school, studio, or teacher for additional information.
  • What are the costs of participating?
    Fees are subject to change each year, so please contact a participating ATAM studio or teacher.
  • When is the registration cut-off date?
    Each school has its own date to allow for timely registration and preparation. Please contact your teacher for cut-off dates.
  • Where can I find a list of ATAM music schools or studios?
    Please visit the ATAM Teachers page.
  • What are some of the benefits of participating in the event?
    The ATAM offers a $1,000 and a $500 scholarship opportunity to graduating high school seniors who are participating in the festival and are going to major in music. See the current year scholarship entry form.
  • Where can I get more information about the festival?
    While these frequently asked questions attempt to provide as much information as possible about the event, your best source for information is an ATAM music school or studio.