ADJUDICATION

A panel of SIX judges is used to evaluate each band. Adjudicator will evaluate each band on a 100 point scale. The score will then be multiplied by the percentage designated for each caption and a composite score with a maximum of 100 points will be assigned to each band.

The categories that will be evaluated are as follows:

Music Execution (30%)
This adjudicator evaluates the suitability of the music and the compatibility of the music and marching style. He also listens for tone quality and effective use of the woodwinds, brass, and percussion sections. The score is also based on the blend of the instruments, contrast of volume, intonation, phrasing, clarity of the musical lines, steadiness of tempo, and rhythmic precision.

Marching Execution (30%)

This adjudicator looks for uniformity of stride. He checks how each student places his/her feet on the ground and the position of the foot and leg through each step. The marching should cause minimum movement in the upper body. The posture and instrument carriage of each student are examined as well. The feet must all hit the ground at precisely the same instant. This adjudicator also checks for the interval of spacing of each form, the alignment of both straight and curved sections or each form, and the clarity of all formations.

General Effect (20%)

This adjudicator evaluates the entire production. He comments on the continuity and flow of the show, the variety of musical styles and tempos, use of the color guard and/or auxiliary groups, and the general impact of the show. He examines the drill design for difficulty, originality, and coordination with the music. The staging of both musical and visual elements, attention to detail, and appearance of the uniform are taken into consideration in this caption.

Percussion (10%)

This adjudicator watches the entire percussion section from the field. He evaluates the rhythmic stability of the drumline, stick height, uniformity in playing techniques, the cleanliness of rolls, and the use of the keyboard and trap instruments. He also comments on the difficulty of the music and the relationship of the percussion music to the wind music.

Color Guard / Auxiliary (10%)

This adjudicator looks at any auxiliary group within the band (flags, rifles, sabres, twirlers, drill team, etc.) and evaluates the relationship of their movements to the music, the precision of these movements, the difficulty of the movements, and their technique. He also evaluates their position, movement of their feet, and any dance techniques that they might use. He also comments on the staging of these groups in the production, their uniforms, and the suitability of their equipment.

Drum Major (Comments Only)

The drum major score does not count in the total band score. This adjudicator evaluates each drum major with his comments on tape. This score determines the best drum major(s) of the contest. He will be looking at their conducting, beat patterns, showmanship, relationship of their conducting to the music, and the ability to control the musical output of the band. He also looks at the posture, appearance of the uniform, salutes, and the way the drum major(s) move on the field.

Preliminary Awards

1st Division Rating (score of 75.0 or higher)
Division Champions (I, II, III, IV)

Outstanding Color Guard/Auxiliary

Outstanding Percussion

Outstanding Drum Majors

Outstanding Marching Execution

Outstanding Music Execution

Outstanding General Effect

Finals Awards

1st- 4th Place Trophies
Finalist Trophies (5th - 10th)