Subject:PETITION REGARDING THIRD YEAR MUSIC EDUCATION RECITAL GUIDELINES AND REQUEST FOR CREATIVE BREATHING ROOM

To: Head of Department - Music Education, Dean of School of Music, Administration

From: Third Year Music Education Cohort

Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts

Date:August 18, 2026

Dear HOD and Administration,

Greetings.

We acknowledge and fully understand the purpose and standards behind the current recital guidelines for Third Year Music Education students,particularly in relation to time limits, performer numbers, and performance format.

We take responsibility for approaching this conversation with respect and collaboration.

While we value the structure that has been in place, we recognize that for us to grow as educators, a more flexible framework is needed to properly develop performance and production skills.

Please permit us to explain in detail and to propose the changes we are seeking.

Attitude Towards the Behaviour

In August 2026, we recognized that as Music Education majors, our training must prepare us not only to perform, but to teach performance and stage productions . A recurring need has emerged for greater practical experience in directing, programming, and managing performers - skills that are central to our future careers.

As students, we decided to bring this petition forward with the aim of enhancing our training while upholding the integrity of the department.

During our preparation for recitals, we encountered limitations that affect our growth. The current rules restrict:

1. Using different singers at a time for different pieces :Not being able to do this hinders giving each piece performed a different character and limits our ability to demonstrate versatility and programming skills.

2. Time allocation :The current time constraints do not allow for proper introductions, transitions, or for each work to be presented with the care it deserves.

 Request: We are asking for 10 additional minutes added to the current allocated time to allow for professionalism, context, and smooth transitions.

3. Number of persons on stage at any given time. This restricts ensemble work, duets, trios, and group performances that mirror real classroom and school concert scenarios.

For clarity, we want to state: We are not seeking a Performance Major level of show , What we are asking for is a little more breathing room for creativity  so that we can learn the pedagogical and production skills that are part of our job description after graduating.

How are we going to teach students how to perform, how to put productions together, and how to manage groups if we were not taught, and not given the proper platform and breathing room to do so? The recital must serve as training ground for both musicianship and  education.

Subjective Norms

The Third Year Education Cohort recognizes the importance of aligning with the standards, values, and reputation of the College and the Music Education Department. Our initiative is intended to create graduates who are not only skilled performers, but capable educators who can contribute to Jamaica’s schools and arts community.

Perceived Behavioural Control

• We propose the following to ensure accountability and quality:
• - Structured Programming and Rehearsal Plans:Submit detailed programs showing singer assignments and artistic intent.
• - Transparent Time Management:
• Requesting 10 additional minutes with a breakdown for performance and transitions.
• - Formalized Ensemble Coordination:
• Document all performers on stage with stage plots and roles.
• - Enhanced Pedagogical Reflection:
• Written reflection connecting performance choices to classroom teaching.
• - Improved Production Planning:
• Submit personnel lists and risk assessments in advance.

While we respect the department’s current guidelines, we remain committed to working with faculty to implement these proposed changes.

We value our relationship with the College and would welcome the opportunity to meet and discuss how we can pilot these adjustments for this year’s recitals.

Thank you once again for your consideration.

With respect and commitment,

The Third Year Music Education Cohort

Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts

SIGNATURE PAGE

We, the undersigned Third Year Music Education students of Edna Manley College, support the petition above and respectfully request the department’s consideration of the proposed changes.

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