Contestant Information/ FAQ’s
What do I do when I first arrive?
Go to SMFL registration table. It will be in the convention center on the top floor.
Let us know you are here. You will get a program booklet with room numbers for the competition and other helpful information about workshops and chorus rehearsals.
Is there a parking fee?
Yes, there is a reduced fee of $18 for the duration of the FPEA convention! PLEASE NOTE THERE ARE NO IN/OUT PRIVILEGES AT THIS RESORT! If you leave and come back, it is another fee, so be sure to prepare well.
Do I need to let you know what piece I will be playing before I come?
No, just make sure you bring an original copy or printout for the judges.
What options do we have for lunch?
There are many dining options at the Gaylord Palms Resort in a variety of price ranges. I suggest going to their website before you arrive to see what is available. There are grab and go options at the coffee place just inside the hotel atrium.
Why do I need to join FPEA in order to enter?
The Sacred Music Florida Competition is sponsored by and made possible by the FPEA (Florida Parent Educator Association) . You will have access to countless educational resources as a member. The Sacred Music Florida Competition is a part of their annual convention which is the largest homeschool convention in the world for over 30 years. I hope you will consider registering for this convention as well and discover 500+ educational resource vendors, meet authors, and attend classes to learn about concepts and skills that can help you get the most out of your child(ren)’s education. Even if you do not homeschool, this conference is a vast wealth of information for you as a parent.
What type of music should I choose?
Sacred & classical repertoire as stated in the question above is best for growing your skills and developing proper technique. These skills can be used to perform any type of music with excellence.
May I use a track for my vocal audition?
Live accompaniment is preferred. If you must use pre-recorded accompaniment, you must bring your own speaker and equipment.
Will there be a mic for my vocal audition?
There will be no mic used for vocal auditions. The judges are interested in hearing your natural voice.
What time will the awards ceremony end?
The awards ceremony begins at 4:45pm and will be over around 5:45pm.
Contestant Information/ FAQ’s
What to do in the time between your audition and the awards ceremony
- Attend the chorus rehearsals at 11am and 3pm! This is a great musical experience for you no matter what instrument you play. It will expand your understanding of interpretation and phrasing. NOTE: BE SURE TO PRINT OUT THE MUSIC BEFORE YOU COME!!! THERE IS A PDF OF THE TWO PIECES UNDER THE “CHORUS” TAB ON THE WEBSITE. ALSO, BE SURE TO PRACTICE WITH THE RECORDINGS. I will be making a an audio recording today for individual parts as well to help you practice.
- Attend workshops!
- Explore the amazing Gaylord Palms Resort!
Dining options at The Gaylord Palms Resort
Dining Options at The Gaylord Palms Resort
There are options at various price ranges. Click on the link to explore. Our family likes Wreckers and also the grab and go options at the coffee shop on the corner. They have chips, drinks and sandwiches/wraps/salads.
Competition rooms at The Gaylord Palms Convention Center
Competition Rooms Convention Center Upper Level
- This is an up close view of our competition rooms. To get here, you go to the top floor of the convention center. If you come from the hotel and go up the escalators, keep going straight once you get off. This is the first hall to the left. If you come up the extra long escalator at the end of the building, keep walking straight and you will see our table and sign.
- When you arrive at the hotel, follow the signs to the convention center parking. Once inside make your way to the top floor. If you enter on the side that is close to Osceola Parkway, there will be a long escalator that goes almost right to our rooms. Continue walking straight ahead and the registration table will be on the right.
- If you are coming from the hotel, walk towards the convention center and take the escalator up. Continue straight. We will be at the first hall on the left.
Macro view of competition rooms
Macro view of competition rooms
In this view, the circle in the center is the location that leads to the hotel. You need to take the escalator up from there.
Contestant Information/ FAQ’s
When will I know the time that my child will perform?
- The schedule will be posted on the website the day after the May 9th deadline. I will be sending an email to all contestants to notify you when it is released.
- Times begin at 8am with the youngest beginners and continue until 4pm ending with the more advanced, older students.
- After the schedule is released, please check to make sure that your children/students are not playing simultaneously or close together in different rooms. I try to avoid this, but sometimes overlook a few. Because of this, there will be small changes in the schedule after it has been released. I will be sure to email you and stay in touch through this process.