Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park

Big Stone Gap, VA 

Musical Competition Rules and Criteria

1.             Each contestant must fill out a registration form for each competition they intend to enter and have paid for entrance into the festival.  No additional cost for competitions.  (Age 12 and under are admitted free.)

2.            Once a category starts, there will be no further registration in that category.

3.            Each contestant will play two tunes, one fast and one slow. This may be adjusted according to the number of entries.

4.            Medleys are acceptable as long as they do not last for more than 5 minutes.

5.            Contestants must announce the name of the tune prior to playing.

6.            No tuning or jamming in the area of the stage.  No warming- up once upon the stage.

7.            If a contestant breaks a string or has other difficulty with his/her instrument, he/she will have the opportunity to correct the problem, and then return to the stage. However, if the problem cannot be quickly corrected, the contestant must allow the next player in line to play, and then  he/she will be allowed to compete.

8.            Singing is not allowed in the individual instrument categories. One back-up instrument will be allowed.

9.            Band competition entries must consist of three (3) or more members.  Cash awards and trophy will be presented to 1st place winners.

10.         Sportsmanship is a must. Any contestant may be disqualified without a refund for unsportsmanlike conduct.

11.         In the event of a tie, contestants will be challenged to an elimination round.

12.         Cash prizes and trophies will be presented for each individual category 1^st and 2^nd place winners.

13.         The following Criteria for Judges will be used in scoring the contestants:

             -- Arrangement
 --  Rhythm/Timing
 --  Musicianship (based upon overall performance being tasteful, dynamic, entertaining)
 -- Technique (technical competence including fingering, bowing, picking, etc.)
 -- Stage Presence

 

Note:  Main stage performers will not be allowed to compete in any competition.

      Click here for our Registration Form. 

2012 Competition Schedule 

All categories, except bands, will feature two age groups: 18 and over; 17 and under.

"Musicians competition fee is included in the price of admission."