Frequently Asked Questions - FAQ

I am a beginner musician, can I apply?
Yes! As long as you are a non-professional musician, Public Practice (PP) is open to all skill levels and cultural music traditions. Note: This is a PRACTICE opportunity, not a gig/performance.

I am a singer, can I apply to Public Practice?
Unfortunately, no. PP is designed as an informal practice opportunity for musicians playing an acoustic instrument, not singers/vocalists.

I play the keyboards, am I eligible?
Sorry, no. PP is for portable, acoustic instruments only. Instruments that require electricity or power to amplify sound (such as keyboards) are not eligible.

What is the time commitment?
If selected, the total time commitment is 90 minutes - about an hour for practicing music, and about thirty minutes for parking, setup, etc.

I see that Public Practice takes place starting noon on Saturday, April 21 to noon on Sunday April 22. What does that mean for me if I am selected to participate?
It means that if selected, you choose to practice when you want during that time period - at sunrise, during the day or in the wee hours of the night. When you apply, you will be asked about your availability. Time slots will be scheduled in advance and are subject to availability.

What should I expect at a Public Practice session?
If selected, PP musicians practice a new piece of music or a new instrument as a solo musician. There may be other PP musicians practicing in other spots scattered around the Music Center at the same time. Sessions are PRACTICE sessions - warm-ups, repetitions, scales, improvisations, mistakes, etc. There is no audience, only polite passers-by, curious on-lookers, and the occasional double takes. Depending on the time you practice, light and weather conditions will vary.

Can you tell me more about the selection process?
Every eligible PP application is carefully reviewed by a peer review panel. Selection is based on how well your answers address all questions on the application form. Selection criteria include stated interest and understanding of Public Practice, as well as commitment to recreational music-making. There is no audition. You will receive notification on the status of your application by March 31.

If I am selected, what do I need to bring?
Everything you need to practice, i.e. your instrument (acoustic, portable only), sheet music, music stand, portable player (e.g. iPod, mp3 player), bottled water, etc. Note: There will be no access to electricity.

If I am selected, what will Active Arts® provide?

• Complimentary parking in the Music Center garage.
• Outdoor public spaces (shaded if daytime, well-lit if nighttime) at the Music Center with a place to sit (e.g. chair, bench, etc.).
• A poster board displayed near you to explain what PP is, and a brief biographical sketch about you as a non-professional musician.
• Staff to direct you to your practice location.

If I am selected, can friends/family play music with me?
Unfortunately no, Public Practice is for solo musicians who have gone through the application process only.

Other questions?
Please e-mail activearts@musiccenter.org.