All bands will need to submit a video recording of 1 song that is popular music (pop, rock, hip-hop, R&B, country, electronic, folk-rock, metal, etc.), excluding Jazz and Classical. The video must be un-edited so that it shows a 1 take performance . Eligible musicians must be 18 years old and under. 

Here is the outline of the criteria to better understand the scoring in each area (scoring scale is 1-5 points)

1. Technical Skill & Musicianship (Individual & Collective):

 

Instrument Proficiency: Accuracy of playing (notes, chords, riffs), tuning, technique appropriate for the song/style. (Guitar, Bass, Keys, Drums, etc.)

 

Vocal Skill (Lead & Backup): Pitch accuracy, tone quality, breath control, clarity of diction, power/control (suiting the song).

 

Rhythmic Accuracy & Tightness: Does the band stay locked in together? Solid tempo, consistent groove, clean starts/stops. Drum/Bass foundation strength.

 

Balance & Blend: Can all instruments/vocals be heard clearly? Does the mix (even if self-engineered live) serve the song? No one instrument/vocal overpowering unnecessarily

 

 

2. Song Arrangement & Musicality:

 

 

Song Structure & Flow: Does the arrangement (intro, verses, chorus, bridge, solos, outro) make sense and hold interest? Effective transitions?

 

Dynamic Control: Use of volume and intensity changes to create emotion and impact (not just loud all the time).

 

Originality/Creativity (within the song): Even for covers, is there a unique interpretation, creative solo, interesting harmony/vocal arrangement, or effective adaptation? (Reward fresh takes on familiar tunes or strong original material).

 

Appropriate Complexity: Is the song choice/arrangement suitably challenging and well-executed *for their age and experience level*? (Don't penalize simpler songs played exceptionally well).

 

 

3. Video Presence & Performance Energy:

 

 

Engagement & Connection:Eye contact, facial expressions, projecting energy *outward*? Do they look like they want to be there?

 

Energy & Enthusiasm: Does the performance match the energy of the song? Is there passion and excitement conveyed? (Can be high-energy rock or captivatingly intense for a ballad).

 

Confidence & Composure: Do they appear confident (even if nervous)? Handling mistakes professionally? Owning the space.

 

Band Cohesion & Interaction: Do band members interact musically and visually? Do they look like a unified group enjoying playing together? Synchronized movements (headbangs, steps, etc.) if appropriate.

 

Movement & Use of area:** Effective use of the performance area? Movement that enhances the performance (not just pacing nervously)? Avoids being completely static unless it serves a specific mood.

 

 

4. Vocal Delivery & Expression:

 

Emotional Connection: Does the singer convey the emotion and meaning of the lyrics?

 

Phrasing & Style: Does the delivery suit the genre and song? Use of dynamics, articulation, and personal style. Backing Vocals (if used): Are they tight, in tune, and add value to the overall sound? Keep pitch and harmony in mind .

 

 

5. Overall Impact & Professionalism:

 

Memorability: Did the performance leave a lasting impression? Was it distinctive?

 

 

FOR FINALS

Audience Response: How did the crowd react? (Use as *one* indicator, not the sole factor.

 

Suitability & Authenticity: Does the song/genre/style suit the band? Does the performance feel genuine?
 

"X-Factor": That intangible spark, charisma, or unique quality that makes a performance stand out. The Magic!

 

Key Considerations for Judges:

 

Genre Flexibility:  Popular music is diverse! Judges will asses *within* the band’s chosen style.

 

Constructive Feedback:

Balance: No single category will dominate unfairly. A band with incredible stage presence but very poor musicianship shouldn't necessarily win over a tight, skilled band with less movement, and vice-versa. Look for well-roundedness.  Scoring sheets will be provided to all bands that enter.

 

Originality vs. Covers: Our policy on scoring originals vs. covers is that creativity in arrangement is key for covers, while songwriting strength is assessed for originals. It will be a balanced approach that will award points for the strength of the writing but will keep in mind creative arrangements for covers.

 

 

 

This criteria is for the judges to provide fair, consistent, and constructive evaluations that recognize both the musical talent and the performance excitement crucial to popular music, while keeping the experience positive and developmental for the young musicians.