Adjudicators

NOTE - This page was last updated in 2012 and no longer contains valid information. This page is for archival purposes ONLY until further notice. - 9/2016

Information for Adjudicators

We are very pleased that you will be adjudicating for the WIAA-WMEA. This information is provided to acquaint you with our procedures and regulations, with hope it will help you have a better, more effective day.

Contest Format

All solo and ensemble entries are recommended scheduled at ten-minute intervals at junior high level and twelve-minute intervals at senior high level. Solos are limited to a six-minute performance and ensembles to an eight-minute performance, so you may have time to talk with each entry and finish the comment sheet.

Choirs, bands and orchestras are scheduled for longer time periods. Recommend that one judge will make verbal comments to the group. Judges will alternate this task.

Comments

All comments to students should be of an encouraging nature. Naturally, honest criticisms must be made, but you should make every effort to make these as constructive as possible. We ask that you follow the standard comment form, evaluating and rating as you see fit. However, that final rating should reflect the categorical grades given. Feel free to mark comments in the score.

Ratings

We respect your personal standards as to what constitutes a particular rating within each division, classification or age level and would ask that you adhere to that standard. It is not our wish that students be rated relative to each other, but only in relation to your standards. Therefore, your rating sheets will be picked up often by the local committee. Students receiving the same rating should have achieved approximately the same level of performance. Ratings should be placed on each contestant's sheet before the next contestant begins his/her performance. In large group contests, there is to be absolutely no conferring between judges in regards to comments or ratings. Please do not use pluses or minuses in the final ratings. You are not expected to have to defend your ratings to anyone. Should you encounter an argumentative student, parent or teacher, simply refer them to the local contest chairperson.

Honorarium

You will be paid at the conclusion of the day's activities at the contracted rate plus mileage allowance. Be prepared to report your mileage and other expenses (if any) to the contest chairperson on your arrival. You will be the guest of the region at the noon luncheon. We are looking forward to sharing a fine day with you and hope you and the students will find it musically rewarding.