As part of our mission, each year, the Ringwood Friends of Music presents performances by music students from northern New Jersey communities at varying levels of advancement. This provides an opportunity for young musicians to share their music in a non-competitive environment. 

Purpose: An opportunity for young musicians to share their music in a non-competitive environment. 

Eligibility: Soloists and small ensembles, both instrumental and vocal, are invited to apply.

Ages: 7-20 years of age for both instrumentalists and vocalists.

Application Form Submission Deadline: May 9, 2025

Rehearsals: The first round of individual rehearsal appointments will be scheduled for Saturday, May 24 from 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM and Sunday, May 25 from 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM. There will be another day for makeups as needed on Saturday, May 31 from 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM. Following the application review process, we will reach out to applicants individually to schedule their rehearsal date and time.

Performances: Performances will take place on Sunday June 1, 2025 at 5:00 PM and 7:00 PM. Students will be assigned to one of these concert times following the first weekend of rehearsals. If there is a preferred time, please say so in the notes section of the form below.

Performance Location: The Community Presbyterian Church, 145 Carletondale Rd, Ringwood, NJ 07456

Application Fee: Non-refundable $15 administrative fee payable to Ringwood Friends of Music, which can be processed online at https://donorbox.org/ringwood-friends-of-music or postmarked by May 9, 2025 to PO Box 427, Ringwood, NJ 07456. Mailed checks should include the student's name and a memo: Youth Performance Festival. If paying online, select "Youth Performance Festival application fee" from the designation drop-down menu. 

FESTIVAL GUIDELINES:

1. Application: Applications are reviewed by members of the RFM Board. We attempt to ensure a showcase of a wide range of performance levels, instruments, and musical styles. Only fully completed applications will be considered. Each soloist or group will be assigned a performance time slot (5:00 PM or 7:00 PM). You will be notified of a performance time assignment no later than Tuesday, May 27 following the rehearsals on May 24 & 25.

2. The music: We welcome performances in the style of the following genres: classical, folk, jazz or musical theater. All solos should be memorized. Chamber ensembles and duets may use printed music. Beginning level instrumental applicants should be able to perform, up to tempo, music that is generally considered to be Level 2 (i.e. Bach – Minuet in G Major) or above. There will be no amplification systems available.

3. Concert attire: Performers are expected to be dressed in semi-formal attire. If you have any questions about appropriate attire, please contact Erin Schwab - RFMyouthfestival@gmail.com.

4. Teacher Recommendation: The teacher’s submission of this separate application form is considered a recommendation. The teacher will be responsible for filling out the student's repertoire selections. Students who wish to play multiple instruments should have both teachers fill out a form. 

5. Equipment: There will be a Steinway B piano provided for all entrants who require it. Chairs and music stands will also be available.

6. Accompanied vocal and instrumental solos. Performers must provide their own accompanists. If your student needs an accompanist, please email ringwoodfriendsofmusic@gmail.com for a list of referrals. You should make your own arrangements with your chosen accompanist to rehearse ahead of time, and should make sure the accompanist is available for your assigned rehearsal and performance appointments.

7. General Admission: General audience admission to the Youth Performance Festival is FREE. Ringwood Friends of Music is administered solely by volunteers. We accept donations to defray concert costs.

Questions or concerns: RFMyouthfestival@gmail.com 

APPLICATION FORMS (Submission Deadline: May 9, 2025):

Please support the musical achievements of your children!