Update for 2018 – We will be adjusting the judging score sheet to weigh the vocals as 50% of the overall score, with visuals and show design to make up the other 50%. Video Judge will be back and will continue to allow the director and students to watch their performance and listen to the judges’ comments at the same time! Adjudicators will still provide a five-minute, on-stage critique immediately following each performance. A copy of the newly adopted adjudication score sheets will also be given to each choir director.
Bands will be adjudicated by a special band-only judge who will offer feedback and determine the top Combo Award. Instrumental scores will not be factored into the results in determining choir placement.
Scoring System
The championships are based on 3 sections: 1- Vocal, 2 – Choreography, 3 – Show. There will be 3 adjudicators assigned to judge the choirs and 1 adjudicator assigned to judge the bands.
Vocal – The Vocal category is worth 50% of the Total Score. There are 5 separate sub-categories in the Vocal category totalling 500 points.
Vocal Technique
Tone Quality, Breath Support, Intonation, Diction and Articulation
Ensemble Technique
Balance of Parts, Blend of Ensemble, Projection, Overall Tone Quality, Texture, Diction/Clarity of Lyrics, Rhythmic Precision
Performance
Commitment to character, choices, storytelling
Musicality
Phrasing (shaping of phrases, phrasing from the lyric), Dynamics, Sensitivity to style/feel
Overall Musical Effect
Clear interpretation of the musical score and storyline, effective transitions, Overall Arc of journey, Relationship between singers and musicians
Visual/Choreography – The Visual/Choreography category is worth 40% of the Total Score. There are 4 separate sub-categories in the Visual category totalling 400 points.
Execution
Precision of Movement, Clean Lines, Spatial Awareness and Dance Technique
Design
Effective, Suitable to Level of Ability, Variety of Styles, Stylistically Appropriate, Choreography Supports / Enhances Vocals
Performance
Showmanship, Risk, Energy in Movement, Quality of Expression
Overall Impression
Enhances the Overall Quality of Presentation, Visually Pleasing, Memorable
Show – The Show category is worth 10% of the Total Score totalling 100 points.
Show Design
Theme, Music Selection, Entertainment Value, Pace, Transitions, Effective use of Stage, Risers and Performance Area, Creative and Effective use of Costuming and Props
Sum of scores will be used to determine placements with 3000 points possible
Instrumental Ensemble – The Instrumental Ensemble scores will not factor into the overall choir scores.
Intonation and Tone Quality
Pitch Accuracy and Tone Quality
Musicianship
Dynamics, Energy and Interaction
Combo Execution
Combo plays with correct style, adds to the general effect of the show
Balance and Blend
Good Balance and Blend within the Combo
Rhythm
Rhythmic Accuracy, Feel, Precision and Tempo
Arrangements
Combo arrangements provide variety
Technique
Combo Displays Good Technique
