The Iowa system has both a competitive section and a non-competitive section. The non-competitive festival has some similarities to the Nebraska festivals, but is a much more ingenious and well planned event.
Encore Studio students participated in the "competitive" auditions in December, held in Council Bluffs. The levels for the competitive system are based on age, so the students who participated had to have a certain level of accomplishment in order to participate. In addition, they had to play three memorized repertoire pieces from the published Iowa repertoire list.
Similar to all festival type events, students received a rating and written comments, as well as taking a theory test. In addition though, the judge could declare a winner for each of the six levels. That winner will then go on to Iowa's State Auditions, but only if they received a passing grade on the theory exam.
Which brings me to my next point: Josh D. and Erica B. both received special attention for receiving a theory score above 90%. In addition to getting a special certificate and recognition, their scores were also printed in the "Iowa Music Teacher" which is a full-fledged magazine!
Other Encore Studio students who participated were Judith B. and Maryn H.
