CONDITIONS AND RULES FOR CONTESTS

Since the British BMG Federation’s formation in 1929, fretted instrument players have attended Festivals to meet, learn, gain inspiration and compete in a friendly fashion. Unless otherwise stated in the Brochure, contests will be judged on musical and technical ability. Contestants are encouraged to bring new ideas to performances whilst keeping within the rules and conditions below. The Federation has a duty to participants to ensure there is a level playing field with no external interference that affects ability of players to compete fairly. Contestants wishing to stage anything going beyond playing music within the given rules should contact the person at point 13 before submitting their entry.

1. Eligibility: All contestants shall be of amateur status except in Contest 4 when there are 10 or more players. An amateur is considered to be someone who does not derive the majority of livelihood from performing or teaching music. Contests are open to both members and non-members.

2. Music: A copy of all music must be provided for Adjudicators. Music, bearing contestant name and contest number, must be handed to an Adjudicator or Adjudicator’s secretary prior to each contest or when the contestant’s name is called for the contest and will be available for collection by the end of the Festival. Any changes to the music must be clearly marked. Adjudicators will take into account the complexity and suitability of the music. It is the contestant’s responsibility to respect the rights of copyright owners, where applicable, by playing from original music scores. Photocopies of copyrighted music can however be provided to adjudicators. Information on copyright can be obtained from Music Publishers Association or the contact person at point 13 below.

3. Selection of Pieces: Contestants may not select a piece they have performed at either of the two previous Festivals or which they are performing in another contest at the current Festival. No solo concertos may be performed apart from in solo contests.

4. Arrangements: It is the contestant’s responsibility to seek permission from the copyright owner if they wish to make arrangements or adaptations of copyrighted music.

5. Accompaniment: Accompaniment on any one instrument is permitted in solo contests.

6. Double/Multiple Entries: Contestants may enter the Ensemble Contest twice providing they are in different ensembles. Contestants may enter the Video Contest twice providing they are in different ensembles or once as a soloist and once in an ensemble. For each of the Solo and Composition Contests, only one entry per contestant is permitted.

7. Programme: Contestants will be informed of approximate times and must be present when their name is called.

8. Additional Support Needs: Bearing in mind that disabled access may not be available at the Festival venue, contestants with additional support needs, such as those with limited physical capabilities, should make their requirements known by notifying the person detailed at point 13 below.

9. Adjudication: Adjudicators’ decisions are final and will be supported by a result sheet with marks gained and comments on the performance.

10. Entries and Fees:

(a) The closing date for contest entries is January 31st.

(b) Fees: Contest 1 Youth Solo £5

Contest 2 Adult Solo £10

Contest 3 Ensemble £30

Contest 4 Video £10

Contest 5 Composition £10

11. Electrical Instruments: Electric guitars may be used in Contests 3 & 4

12. Time Limits: The number of minutes shown is maximum playing time allowed; performances will be halted when the time-keeper indicates time is up.

Contests 1 & 2 4 minutes

Contest 3 6 minutes

Contest 4 8 minutes

13. Enquiries: By email to sandrawoodruff1947@gmail.com or telephone 07946 71659