Event Name: Concert Band
Location: Freeman Catholic College MAC
Section Number: 3
General Category Guidelines:
Grade Information:
Sections are based first on grade, then year. For example, if a section comprises students playing a Grade 3 piece, and groups range between years 3-8, they are considered to be of the same playing standard and may compete together. The Eisteddfod Team will endeavour to group similar years together where possible, and to prioritise Primary only and Secondary only sections. If sections must be merged, this will be done across Grade lines, not based solely on year.
Grades for Ensembles are generally 0.5 to 3, in 0.5 increments. Teachers/Tutors should know the grade based on the piece they are playing (it is often written on the music or can be found online). If you are unsure after checking, please contact the Eisteddfod Team for clarification.
1 piece only to be performed
Additional time will be granted for setup, tuning and clearing the stage. This time must not exceed 3 minutes. Schools must move quickly on and off the stage. Following a performance, ensembles should clear the space quickly and quietly as directed by staff.
Teachers/Tutors may wish to attach a drawing or photo of your school setup in the registration form. Please ensure this is saved as a PDF.
Backing tracks are not permitted for any Instrumental Ensemble section.
Teachers/tutors/non-students are permitted to accompany or perform in any primary ensemble on the keys. This must be accompaniment only, not playing a lead part.
Teachers/tutors/non-students are not permitted to accompany or perform in any secondary school ensembles, however, are allowed to conduct.
Individual conductors may lead any number of instrumental ensembles.
Ensembles from the same school that are performing in the same section MUST contain a majority of different players in each group.
Scores MUST be submitted with the relevant grade/difficulty level indicated as part of the application.
The repertoire is to be appropriate to all audiences, and should be aligned with SCS’ mission, vision and values
Section Specific Guidelines:
Performer Limit:
Minimum 15 Performers
Time stipulations – performances must not exceed:
Grade 0.5 – Grade 2: 4 mins
Grade 2.5 and above: 6 mins
Performance will be stopped at 1 minute after time.
Provided Equipment:
Music Stands
Chairs
1 Guitar Amp
1 Bass Amp
1 Standard Drum Kit
1 Set of Congas
2 Timpani
1 Marimba
1 Xylophone
1x Bass Drum
2 Electric Pianos
4 Hand-Held Microphones
Performers/schools WILL supply any further instruments, amplification or effects required i.e. distortion pedal.
Performers/schools must advise their use of additional instruments to be used in their performance as part of their registration.
Judging Criteria:
- Intonation.
- Rhythm.
- Ensemble balance/blend.
- Dynamics and articulation appropriate to style.
- Ensemble awareness (eg following conductor, interaction with ensemble)
Immediate Point Deductions:
- 1 point deduction for not providing a score.
- 2 point deduction for every 30 seconds over time.
- 2 point deduction for Teachers playing a significant musical part in a primary section (more than accompanying).
- 2 point deduction for using any pre-recorded music.
- 2 point deduction for inappropriate content or themes.
