Performance Guidelines
Ensemble Classes
Each performing group will be classified by ensemble type:
- Band
- Orchestra
- Full Orchestra
- Choral
- Jazz Band
- Percussion Ensemble
- Other
Time Allotment
Groups will be allotted 25 minutes in the performance room:
- 5 minute entrance/set-up/photo
- 5 minute warm-up
- At least a 10 minute performance & judge review
- 5 minute exit
Performance Requirements
The director must furnish two (2) judge’s packets consisting of original scores for each adjudicated composition with the measures numbered. Duplication of published scores is not acceptable without written permission from the copyright holder. If scores are not provided, ensembles may still perform; however, they will not be rated or considered for awards. Beginner groups are welcome to perform unison pieces and from method books. Please make sure an original copy of the book or music is available for every judge.
There are no specific requirements for music selection. Groups may perform one, two, or three pieces. However, the total performance must not exceed 10 minutes in length.
After the performance, directors may opt-in for an onstage performance review and clinic from one of our judges. The judge will primarily focus on the accomplishments of the ensemble. They may also clinic with ideas for further refinement. The performance and optional review must be completed within the 10-minute window.
Frequently Asked Questions
Acclaim Music Festival will provide the following equipment for the festival:
Instrumental:
- Music Stands & Chairs
- Director’s Podium
- Acoustic Piano
- Four (4) timpani
- Bass drum
- Xylophone
- Bells
- One (1) solo microphone
Choral:
- 3 Choral Risers
- Acoustic Piano
- One (1) Solo Microphone
All ensembles that choose to be rated will be measured against a national standard. Based on the quality of the performance, the Acclaim Music Festival will use the following rating system:
Superior
Excellent
Quality
Fair
Ensembles may choose from three possible adjudication options:
- Competitive (Judges Comments, Rating, and Competition)
- Noncompetitive (Judges Comments, Rating, and No Competition)
- Comments Only (Judges Comments, No Rating, and No Competition)
* Ensembles that elect the Comments Only option will still receive a trophy for musical achievement.
Each ensemble that has elected to receive a rating will be awarded a trophy reflecting their ratings at the festival. Groups that receive a superior rating can also be considered for an additional award. Overall Outstanding awards will be awarded by the judges at the conclusion of the festival. The number of Overall Outstanding Awards will be determined after registration closes. There must be at least five ensembles in a category to award an Overall Outstanding. Directors are responsible for coordinating with the festival manager for trophy pick-up of overall outstanding awards. Trophies needing to be shipped will incur a $30 shipping fee.