When you bring up the topic of competitions, what responses do you get from your students? Often we hear, “We are just so busy already” or “That sounds stressful for my child.” Sometimes parents remember a discouraging competition experience and want to avoid it entirely. But teachers know there are compelling reasons students should participate in festivals or competitions. Participation does not have to be constant; even once a year can help every student.
Motivation
Imagine if soccer goals no longer counted. Would goalkeepers dive to block shots? Would players sprint to recover the ball? Everyone needs a degree of competition for motivation, whether in sports or music performance. Research suggests children respond positively to healthy competition. Knowing they have an important performance at a festival can increase intrinsic motivation to practice harder and refine details.
Personal Growth
With a clear goal and stronger motivation, students often accelerate in learning. Teachers frequently see significant leaps in musicality before a performance event. Students listen more critically, shape dynamics more intentionally, stabilize tempo, and develop expressive color. That growth can carry into future repertoire and long-term confidence.
Learn From Failure
“I have failed over and over and over again in my life — and that is why I succeed.”
— Michael Jordan
Learning from setbacks builds persistence, dedication, tenacity, and resilience. It also helps students work through fear of losing. With supportive teachers and parents, students can identify what to improve—preparation, focus, nerves, or process—and come back stronger.
When families need encouragement to participate in local festivals, these benefits are worth sharing. Students who participate tend to build stronger motivation, meaningful personal growth, and better resilience through feedback.