The Foundation for Music Education

08/05/2026

The 2026 Mark of Excellence and Citation of Excellence received a record 670 entries this year!
The adjudicators are in process of listening to these wonderful performances. Thanks to all!

03/12/2026

05/31/2025

The entry deadline for the 2025 Mark of Excellence and Citation of Excellence is June 5th. Online entry should be completed and scores mailed. To enter, go to
https://www.foundationformusiceducation.org/mark-of-excellence/

for issues with scores, payment, etc contact
[email protected]

The Mark of Excellence project seeks to recognize and award outstanding achievement in performance by high school and middle school bands, choirs and orchestras. The project gathers entries from throughout the United States and provides valuable feedback for all entrants. A unique competitive enviro...

05/11/2025

The Mark of Excellence and Citation of Excellence deadline is June 5th, and we have already received 180 entries!
We are however quite slow with Percussion ensemble and Jazz entries!
Jazz adjudicator - Aaron Lington - San Jose State University
Percussion ensemble adjudicator - Joseph Gramley - Indiana University

05/06/2025

An inspirational evening with the Austin Youth Orchestra while honoring William Bill Dick with the Foundation's Keynote Award!

03/29/2025

Last weekend to nominate your private wind, string, or vocal teacher for the Foundation Award. https://www.facebook.com/foundationformusiceducation/

07/13/2024

Awesome day at the WT Band Camp today honoring Dr Gary Garner today with The Foundations Keynote Award!