FAQ

What is Concert Assessment?

What is assessment and why it is so important that we participate? It is very similar to an SOL test for musicians. At concert assessment we, as musical performers, are held accountable to a standard of performance excellence based upon our technical and musical skills as determined by a judging panel of accomplished directors and musicians. In turn, we listen to their recorded evaluation, apply the constructive comments to our teaching and we, and our students grow. Over time, this repetitive process takes us to higher and higher levels of excellence. This event ensures our growth as teachers and students.

The benefits of adjudication are far-reaching. Growth in musicianship, character, commitment, team-work, work-ethic, and citizenship are just a few of the rewards. The very act of getting dressed up, traveling to the event, being in the warm-up room and performing for an audience of other students, parents, and adjudicators is exciting for young musicians. It helps to motivate them towards excellence.

From the VBODA Handbook:

Section 7. Assessment Statement. The purpose of Assessment is: a. to provide band and orchestra directors opportunities for self‐assessment. b. to provide students in bands and orchestras the opportunity for self‐assessment, instruction and guidance, both in an individual and cooperative learning environment. c. to provide technical and artistic feedback to all students and teachers in both competitive and non‐competitive settings. d. to serve as motivational endeavors for individuals and total school music programs. e. to showcase musical achievement by students and ensembles before their schools, administrations, families and the community at large. It is the intention of the Virginia Band and Orchestra Directors Association that all performing ensembles at the District Concert Assessments across the state will be assessed on, and held to, the same standards. The purpose of this assessment is for the performing ensemble to receive feedback on precisely where the ensemble is in their musical growth and development. With this in mind a Superior rating in this District should be reflective of the same performance qualities found in any VMEA District. Your ratings here should be consistent with ratings earned in other District Assessment events. Terminology used during your evaluation should definitely categorize the final outcome of your sheet. Terms such as incredible, outstanding, wow, wonderful, etc. establish a Superior Rating. Using the terms excellent and good state exactly the box your final evaluation should be placed. Assess the ensemble you are hearing in comparison to what you hear on a National level. It is the intent that the “National Standards” be applied in each District whether an Urban, Suburban, or Rural area. The back of the Assessment Sheet contains a rubric. You do not have to address every item on the rubric. Rather, use it as a guide for addressing certain specific areas with your comments. Comment on the “quality” of the repertoire performed as well as the “suitability” for the participating ensemble.