Southwest Area String Students Aim High!

The Southwest Area Music Teachers Association (SAMTA), a chapter of Illinois Music Association, held their first Achievement in Music Exams (AIM) for string students on April 21, 2024 at The Music Connection in Orland Park.

Four area violin students, Brody Wise, New Lenox; Ellie Freeland, Ava Sayles, and Mabel Reeder, Frankfort; passed Achievement in Music (AIM) exams . Exams were held at The Music Connection in Orland Park on April 21,2024.

Students were judged in performance, technique, music theory, sight reading and aural skills.

AIM is designed to develop strong performance and technical skills as well as a thorough understanding of music theory. There are 12 levels of AIM and each has theory, performance and technical requirements. AIM exams are held each year for piano and string students through SAMTA.

“We are very proud of our string students’ achievements and thank them for participating in our first ever string exams," said Janet Kuester, president of SAMTA. “Our SAMTA string teachers are very passionate about offering the opportunity for students to participate in the AIM program."

AIM gives private teachers a way of measuring repertoire performance skill and a way of ensuring their students progress artistically, technically, and continuing to grow and develop skill in theory, aural (listening) skills, and sight reading.

SAMTA String teacher members are Carl Johnston, Michelle Freeland, Janet Kuester, and Ana Simonovska. More information on AIM and SAMTA can be obtained by visiting www.Samtateachers.org and www.ismta.org