Hart Middle School/Novice Showchoir 2024

Music

Tone & Technique – 10 points

Demonstration of stylistically appropriate vocal shape, timbre, and release of tension associated with trained singing

Group Intonation – 10 points

Choir is in tune when singing in unison and in parts.

Balance & Blend – 10 points

Unification of vowels and tone quality are achieved with placement and conformity; Relative volume of voice parts and individuals is well proportioned, unobtrusive, and is perceptible throughout venue, achieved by combination of tone, intensity, and articulation.

Diction/Clarity of Lyrics – 10 points

Lyrics are understood; consonants and vowels are natural and appropriate.

Musicality, Phrasing, & Expression – 10 points

Elements of phrasing, sensitivity, and nuance are present.

Rhythmic Accuracy – 10 points

Choir demonstrates rhythmic integrity, synchronized onsets, and uniform releases.

Entertainment and Overall Effect – 10 points

Coordination of vocals and visuals, i.e., choreography facilitates and enhances vocals.

Show

Execution of Choreography & Attention to Detail – 10 points

Choreography is presented with commitment, energy, physical understanding and is rhythmically synchronized. Details are uniformed and consistent.

Difficulty Appropriate for Division – 10 points

Level of skill and training needed to successfully perform show appropriate to division.

Communication & Expression – 10 points

Emotion, characterization, and intent are clear, true, and believable.

Transitions & Staging – 10 points

Performers remain in character through transitions to sustain interest; Ensemble achieves spacing and layering that compliment the visual effect of performance.

Stylistic Authenticity/Choreographic Content – 10 points

Ensemble uses distinctive movements according to the song genre and is purposeful to show.

Consistency & Energy – 10 points

Overall energy quality is maintained throughout performance from start to finish.

Costuming – 10 points

Costuming and grooming are well-assembled, enhance presentation, and do not distract from the overall show

Weighting

By Raw Scores, the captions Music and Show are weighted 50/50 with a grand total of 140 points.

Split Sheet and Ranks

When the judges are split by caption and scores are converted to ranks, the weighting depends the number of judges per caption. To achieve a 60/40 Music/Show split, the panel must have at a minimum 3 Music judges and 2 Show judges.