Music Instrumental/Contemprary

Music: Instrumental-Contemporary

The art of performing with an instrument of your choice to produce popular music with the tones of the present.

Overview
This competition celebrates the artistry of solo instrumental performance using contemporary musical styles. Contestants are encouraged to showcase their unique interpretation and technical prowess through a captivating performance.

Notes for Judges ● Each contestant will have 5 minutes to present their performance and then the judging co-hort will have 5-10 minutes for any follow up questions and quick deliberations before the next contestant. Each contestant will only have an allocated time frame of 10-15 minutes. ● You should not under any circumstances engage with the students before or after the competition until the Awards Ceremony has concluded. ● You must provide honest constructive feedback for each contestant that you are judging. ● Scoring Rubric: ○ 95-100 - Qualifies as a Gold Medalist ○ 90+Up - Qualifies as a Silver Medalist ○ 85+Up - Qualifies as a Bronze Medalist ■ Please take heed that the identifying word here is “Qualifies”. There can be multiple contestants that can qualify as gold medalist and if that’s the case the highest score will receive the gold, and silver and bronze will be allocated to the next two highest scores. In the event the highest score is a 90 then there is no gold medalist and there’s only a possibility for a silver and bronze medalist as long as the remaining scores land within the 85+Up region.

Requirements

Musical Selection:

Choose a solo piece specifically composed for your instrument.

Ensure the piece does not exceed 5 minutes in duration. Exceeding this limit will result in points deduction.

Performance Format:

Your performance must be a solo presentation.

If your piece requires additional musicians, you are responsible for providing them.

You may request piano accompaniment by May 10, for the national competition only. No piano at the local competition.

Please submit-sheet music

Alternatively, you can bring your own accompanist.

Sheet Music Submission:

Submit one clear, well-aligned digital copy of your sheet music.

Email sheet music to coraopolisnaacp@gmail.com by the March 20 Deadline

Instrument and Equipment:

You must provide all instruments

Musical Style and Instrument Choice:

Select a piece that aligns with the contemporary musical styles, such as R&B, Broadway, Jazz, Gospel, Blues, etc.

Contestants Will Be Judged By The Following Criteria

Effectiveness of style, Improvisation (20 pts)

Intonation, Touch (20 pts)

Stage presence, Choice of music (20 pts)

Technique, Articulation, Breathing, Tonality, Rhythm, Facility (20 pts)

Tone quality, Beauty, Control, Characteristic timbre (20 pts)

Point Deduction

-1 to -5
In the event the student performance exceeds 5 mins one point will be deducted for every minute over up to five points.

Tips for Instrumental Contemporary Contestants

Choose a piece that suits your strengths and interests.

Practice diligently to master the technical aspects of your piece.

Develop a strong stage presence and connect with the audience.

Pay attention to dynamics, phrasing, and articulation.

Consider incorporating improvisation to add spontaneity and creativity to your performance.

If you choose to use an accompanist, ensure clear communication and rehearsal 􀆟me.

Dress professionally and appropriately for the performance.

Most importantly, enjoy the process and have fun!