Instructions For Adjudicators

Updated October 2012

• Adjudicators justify each rating by providing a concise written evaluation of the strengths and weaknesses of each performance. Verbal comments may be added if recorders are available. It is never appropriate to write ‘see tape.’
• Adjudicators do not give verbal or visual critique or assistance to students before, during or after performances.
• Adjudicators arrive punctually to festivals. Time of arrival is designated by the Festival Host, but if not designated, is no later than 15 minutes prior to the scheduled time of the first performance.
• Adjudicators are expected to assess the proper rating for a performance without discussion. They are not encouraged, but not prohibited, to discuss their decision about a rating with another adjudicator.
• Where possible, adjudicators are asked to make arrangements so as to not adjudicate their own students.
• Adjudicators offer recommendations for continued musical growth.
• Adjudicators provide evaluation that is clear, encouraging and educational.
• Adjudicators evaluate the festival performance without bias from other factors.
• Adjudicators do not let anger, ego, or fatigue affect judgment.
• Adjudicators do not attempt to solicit students for their private studio or program while adjudicating Region or State Festivals.
• Adjudicators frequently review rubrics to improve rating consistency.
• Adjudicators at Region Festivals qualify entries for the State Festival by awarding a Superior Rating I. A I- rating or lower does not qualify the entry for State Festival participation. A large ensemble, however, may qualify for State with three I’s or two I’s and one I-. If there are only two adjudicators for the event, two I’s are required to qualify for State.
• Adjudicators frequently review the UHSAA Music Music Policies (uhsaa.org).
• Adjudicators refer any concerns to UMEA’s adjudication chair John Bowman jbowman@alpinedistrict.org immediately.