Youth Track: Frequently Asked Questions
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What follows are some of the most common questions asked about Music Ministry Alive! If you still have remaining questions, do not hesitate to contact us mmasong@aol.com. After acceptance, both youth and adult participants will receive more detailed information to help them prepare for MMA experience.
Q: How old do I have to be to apply?
For MMA 2011, you have to be entering the 10th, 11th, 12th grade or your first two years of college in the fall of 2011.
Q: Do I have to know how to read music to attend MMA?
No, it is not a requirement. But if you do not read music well, we might assign you to a daily music reading class, which will only help you. But being able to read music is not a requirement for acceptance (but is sure does not hurt!).
Q: Does an adult have to accompany me and attend MMA as well?
No. But it certainly enriches the experience for the youth participants when an adult also attends. But most years, the majority of youth participants come alone with no adult attending. We usually have about 50 adult participants, while we have between 140 - 160 youth attending.
Q: Do I have to be Catholic to apply?
No. MMA is an ecumenical program and we welcome applicants from all Christian denominations.
Q: How should I decide what track to apply for?
Read through the track descriptions here on the website and on the application forms. You will participate in ONE track only as they take place at the same time). We try very hard to honor your first choice, but we really ask that you give a second and third choice as well. If you need help, consult with your parish music director or music teacher.
Q: I have heard about private lessons. Tell me more about this.
You have the option to sign up for a one-on-one session with a master teacher in your area of interest. This popular option is an opportunity to dig a bit deeper and get some individual attention.
Q: Do I have to remain on campus during MMA, or can I commute?
All youth participants are required and expected to live on the campus throughout the entire MMA experience, even those who may live close by. Part of the rich experience of MMA is the life in community that we share during the week. There are no exceptions to this requirement.
Q: Can I come for just some of the time if I cannot make it the entire week?
No. Again, this is a powerful experience of community, and each day builds upon the other. We need you here the entire time, as we are accountable to each other. Being a part of MMA is a commitment.
Q: When I apply, does that mean that I am automatically accepted?
No, that is not the case. Those who are accepted to MMA are young people who demonstrate not only musical interest and talent, but an involvement and commitment to service and ministry in their parish and/or school. That is why there is an essay portion of the application, as well as two letters of recommendation.
Q: Are there scholarships available?
Yes, there are a limited number of scholarships available, due to the generous support of organizations, publishers and individuals. Check out the application form for specific information. Click here for more info...
Q: How many times can I attend MMA?
You can attend MMA a maximum of three times, if each time you fit into the age requirements.
Q: Are there events open to the public where my parents, family and friends can attend?Yes. At the end of MMA, we present a final musical experience, called the MMA Festival Sing!, which is a powerful experience where you as youth participants will be sharing your God-given gifts and talents. That event is open to the public, and you will receive more information about that at the time of your acceptance. We also invite your family and friends to join us for the final Mass the concluding Sunday.
Q: Is there a dress code for the week?
The dress for the week is informal, and there is a dress code with some minimal guidelines that you will receive after your acceptance. There are a couple of events that we ask you to dress up a bit, but for the majority of the week, it is very informal. Q: If I am accepted, when do I have to be there?
For MMA 2011, you will need to arrive on St. Catherine University campus on Tuesday, July 26th, no later than 1:00 p.m. that day. You cannot leave until after lunch on Sunday, July 31, 2011.
Q: I am flying, what airport do I fly to? Will someone meet me at the airport, and get me back to the aireport when MMA is over?
You will fly into Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport which is about 10 minutes from St. Catherine University. You will make your own travel arrangements, but DO NOT make those arrangements until your acceptance is final (which will be around May 31). We will provide hospitality and pick up to and from the airport if you request it. These arrangements you will make directly with the MMA Transportation Coordinator about a month before the beginning of MMA.
Q: Can I come early or stay later?You can certainly come early or stay later, but we will not be able to house you on campus before July 26, 2011 or after Sunday, July 31, 2011. Any plans you have, you will need to do on your own.
Q: If I am driving, can I leave my car on campus?
Yes, but you will not be allowed to drive it or leave campus at any time during MMA.
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