the volunteer process
01
SIGNUP
Students sign up for a concert via Google Form.
VIRTUAL - Students choose to send a performance video in their form response OR via email at a later date.
02
CONFIRMATION
A confirmation email is sent to the student after signup and after video submission (if sent through email).
03
PERFORMANCE
VIRTUAL - Students' videos are compiled and broadcasted for senior residents by assisted living facilities, via YouTube,
IN PERSON - Students arrive at the performance site, fill out attendance, and perform live for senior residents.
04
SERVICE HOURS
VIRTUAL - Students receive 2-3 service hours per performance via email (see FAQ below).
IN PERSON - Students receive 4 service hours per performance via email.
faq
*don't see your question answered? contact us!
Q: What are the eligibility requirements for performing?
A: All students from Kindergarten through 12th Grade are allowed to perform! We welcome students of all musical genres and levels.
Q: How many service hours do I earn? (VIRTUAL)
A: For each concert, a student will be awarded
-
1 hour for performing and
-
1/2 hour for each piece.
For example, a student performing two pieces will earn 2 hours that week: 1 hour for performing, and 1 hour for two pieces.
***Students are allowed ONLY up to 2 pieces per concert.***
Q: I want to sign up, but my video isn't ready yet.
A: You can still sign up without filling out the spaces for your piece information or link! Just remember to email us your performance video by the deadline:
Thursday at noon before your scheduled concert.
Q: Are there any guidelines for recording my performance?
A: Yes! These are listed on the Google Form, and here below:
1. All volunteer musicians must dress appropriately to perform (Casual or recital attire. No pajamas, sandals, or flip-flops).
2. All video submissions must be age & content appropriate, and will be reviewed by our screening managers.
3. You must show your face in your video performance.
4. When using a mobile device to record the performance video, please tilt it to horizontal view for the best viewing experience.
5. Please allow for 3 seconds of silence in the beginning and ending of your performance video.
6. After the initial 3-second silence, we encourage you to greet the audience loudly and clearly by introducing your name, and your piece!
Q: I only see a few concert dates available on the form. Why can't I sign up for more recent dates?
A: Our concerts are one hour long, and the option to sign up for a date will be closed when there are enough students to fill the time slot. Signups are on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Q: I filled out the form already, but I want to change my piece.
A: That's perfectly okay! Email us and give us your new piece title, composer, and video link.
Q: Why does UNMUTE give more service hours for in-person performances?
A: As we slowly transition out of COVID-19 restrictions, we would like to encourage students to increase live performances. Virtual performances would be a good option for students from other states and/or countries outside of our performance sites, who are unable to perform in-person.
Q: Why am I listed as "MCPS Student..." or "Student Musician..."?
A: For Montgomery County students: County policy requires that we do not publicize your name in our concerts.
For all other students: If you opted not to have your name publicized when signing up, you will be listed as "Student Musician." Please contact us if you would like to change your preference.
Q: I need my service hours by a sooner date.
A: If needed for a scholarship, honor society, etc, we can send you your hours if you let us know. Otherwise, please wait until the date listed on our Google Form.