On December 1, a Dropbox request for video submissions will be sent to paid registrants.
Only one video is to be submitted per event, with a pause between repertoire selections.
Video submissions must be in a "live" format without edits.
Before singing, hold up the original copy of the score to the camera.
The video should be treated as a performance, with appropriate conduct and attire.
While video quality is not part of the final determination, singers are encouraged to follow these guidelines for proper adjudication: place the camera at a reasonable height, distance, and angle to capture the entire singer and the most natural sound quality possible. Use adequate lighting. Avoid people, pets, or personal items visible in the background.
Video submissions are due by December 15.
Video MUST be titled "Last Name, First Name, School".
Students must upload PDF's of their sheet music via the Dropbox request. Music must be titled "Last Name, First Name, Song Title"
Directors will receive their student's adjudicated scores and comments by January 22.
Repertoire
Soloists must sing two age appropriate songs of contrasting nature. These songs should be from the art song, oratorio, or operatic repertory, but only one post-baroque aria may be performed.*
When choosing literature, soloists can use this Suggested Repertoire list as a guide. There is no longer a required list for soloists.
If multiple strophic verses are included in the original work, it is acceptable to select two (or more if needed) in the interest of time
If an original work repeats without any changes to text or musical content, it is acceptable to eliminate the repeat sign in the interest of time (da capo arias)
Accompanists are encouraged to reduce lengthy introductions and interludes in the interest of time.
Popular, show/musical tunes, vocal jazz, barbershop or novelty selections are not acceptable.
*An art song is usually written for one voice with piano accompaniment in the classical art music tradition. In German it is called lieder; in French, chanson. An art song is a complete composition in itself and is not part of a larger work such as an opera or oratorio.
Performance
Soloists must perform from memory to receive a final determination.
Ensembles may use music.
Instrumental accompaniment other than piano is allowed but must not detract from the performance. This includes the use of a backing track.
Small ensembles consist of 2 – 5 singers.
Large ensembles consist of 6 – 20 singers. IMPORTANT NOTE - Because many ensembles have not been able to rehearse due to COVID, large ensembles may opt to participate in the spring Choral Festival rather than S&E.
The personnel of the ensemble shall not change from one selection to the other.
Performance time may not exceed 8 minutes.
Choreography is not allowed. However, artful staging and appropriate choral movement that reflect performance practice of the genre is allowed.