High School Festival: Music
Finally see all those practice hours pay off. Connect with high school musicians and choirs from around the country while competing in group or solo categories. Receive valuable feedback, attend choir, orchestra or band rehearsals and get advice from our highly respected music faculty.
Competitions
1 Student | 6–10 minutes
One long or two shorter selections (secular or sacred) from any of the specified musical periods.* Sacred selections, if used, should be in a traditional style. Standard band and orchestral instruments only. Teacher may not help cue or direct the contestant during the performance. Memorization is not required. If a composition is written to include an accompaniment, it must be performed with one. With either one or two selections, the combined performance time must be within the stated time range.
1 Student | 6–10 minutes
One long or two shorter contrasting selections (secular or sacred) from any of the specified musical periods.* Sacred selections, if used, should be in a traditional style. Both selections must be performed on the same instrument. Original compositions, if used, must be typeset using regular staff notation. Classical guitar selections must be played on classical guitar (not acoustic or electric). Guitar strings may be steel or nylon. Teacher may not help cue or direct the contestant during the performance. Memorization is not required. If a composition is written to include an accompaniment, it must be performed with one. With either one or two selections, the combined performance time must be within the stated time range.
1 Student | 6–10 minutes
One long memorized selection representing one of the specified musical periods or two shorter memorized selections representing two of the specified musical periods.* Neither selection should be a concerto movement. With either one or two selections, the combined performance time must be within the stated time range.
1 Student | 5–10 minutes
Two memorized selections. May be original or published hymn arrangements. All selections should be in a traditional style. The combined performance time must be within the stated time range.
1 student | 5–10 minutes
Two memorized selections (secular or sacred) from any of the specified musical periods.* Literature from musical theatre and crossover/classical light music popularized by artists such as Josh Groban, Charlotte Church and Celtic Woman are not appropriate for this category. Sacred selections, if used, should be in a traditional style. If a composition is written to include an accompaniment, it must be performed with one. The combined performance time must be within the stated time range.
1 student | 5–10 minutes
Two memorized contrasting musical theatre selections (at least one from pre-1960 musical theatre repertoire) that are written or intended for a staged musical production, such as selections from musicals (including film musicals), revues, or song cycles in the musical theatre style. The selections should demonstrate the singer’s full ability as a musical theatre performer, showing contrast and variety among selections.
Selections that feature or celebrate objectionable content are not appropriate for this competition. We seek a healthy vocal sound appropriate for the repertory. An overtly “pop” style of singing is not encouraged and may result in point reduction. Appropriate stage movement and dialogue or monologue, if an integral part of a selection, may be included. No costumes or props, please. Published transpositions of musical theatre songs are permitted, but singers are expected to retain the composer’s intended style of music and to convey the essence of the character portrayed in the larger work.
Singers may bring their own piano accompanist or hire a BJU accompanist. The combined performance time must be within the stated time range.
1 student | 6–10 minutes
One long or two shorter selections (secular or sacred) from any of the specified musical periods.⁴ Sacred selections, if used, should be in a traditional style. Memorization is not required. With either one or two selections, the combined performance time must be within the stated time range.
1 student | 5–8 minutes
One long or two shorter solos or concert etudes (secular or sacred) from standard concert literature from one of the following categories: snare drum, timpani, mallet, keyboard percussion (including but not limited to orchestra bells/glockenspiel, xylophone, marimba or vibraphone) or multiple percussion (multiple percussion has no standard set of instruments but may comprise a combination of snare drums, keyboard percussion, pedal bass drum, concert toms and/or small instruments such as triangle, wood blocks or cymbals).
Drum sets, electronic devices and handbells are not permitted. Sacred selections, if used, should be in a traditional style. Memorization is not required. Keyboard accompaniment is optional; however, if a composition is written to include an accompaniment, it must be performed with one. With either one or two selections, the combined performance time must be within the stated time range.
1 student | 15 minutes max
One fully notated musical score (submitted in a printed hard copy to the Festival Music Office at check-in) in sacred or concert style for acoustic instruments and/or voices. Judging preference will be shown to pieces that exhibit greater levels of creativity and originality. If pre-existing tunes are used in an arrangement, the composer of the tune should be properly cited. While not required, contestants are encouraged to submit a recording of reasonable quality along with the score. The contestant must be present to enter the composition competition.
2–6 students | 4–8 minutes
Two selections (secular or sacred) from any of the specified musical periods.* Teacher may not cue or direct ensemble during the performance. Please avoid repertoire from musical theatre or that is based on pop tunes or styled like show choir repertoire. Sacred selections, if used, should be in a traditional style. Memorization is not required. If a composition is written to include an accompaniment, it must be performed with one. The combined performance time must be within the stated time range. Four entries max per school.
7–16 students | 4–8 minutes
Two selections (secular or sacred) from any of the specified musical periods.* Teacher may not cue or direct ensemble during the performance. Please avoid repertoire from musical theatre or that is based on pop tunes or styled like show choir repertoire. Sacred selections, if used, should be in a traditional style. Memorization is not required. If a composition is written to include an accompaniment, it must be performed with one. The combined performance time must be within the stated time range. Two entries max per school.
17+ students | 4–8 minutes
Two selections (secular or sacred) from any of the specified musical periods.* Performance may be conducted. Please avoid repertoire from musical theatre or that is based on pop tunes or styled like show choir repertoire. Sacred selections, if used, should be in a traditional style. Memorization is not required. If a composition is written to include an accompaniment, it must be performed with one. The combined performance time must be within the stated time range. One entry max per school.
4+ students | 5–10 minutes
One long or two shorter selections (secular or sacred) from any of the specified musical periods.* Sacred selections, if used, should be in a traditional style. Ensemble must provide their own handbells and equipment (including pads). Table will be provided for rehearsals and performance. Teacher may conduct performance. Memorization is not required. With either one or two selections, the combined performance time must be within the stated time range.
2–9 students | 5–8 minutes
One long or two shorter selections (secular only) from any of the specified musical periods.* Standard orchestral instruments only. Memorization is not required. Teacher may not help cue or direct ensemble during the performance. Classical guitar may be included as part of a string ensemble. Keyboard accompaniment is optional; however, if a composition is written to include an accompaniment, it must be performed with one. With either one or two selections, the combined performance time must be within the stated time range.
3+ students | 5–8 minutes
One long or two shorter selections (secular only) from any of the specified musical periods.* Brass trio or larger with any combination of trumpet, horn, trombone, euphonium or tuba. One player per part. Memorization is not required. Teacher may not help cue or direct ensemble during the performance. Unaccompanied. Literature suggestion lists available upon request. With either one or two selections, the combined performance time must be within the stated time range.
2–9 students | 5–8 minutes
One long or two shorter selections (secular or sacred) from any of the specified musical periods.* Sacred selections, if used, should be in a traditional style. Standard band instruments only. Memorization is not required. Teacher may not help cue or direct ensemble during the performance. Keyboard accompaniment is optional; however, if a composition is written to include an accompaniment, it must be performed with one. With either one or two selections, the combined performance time must be within the stated time range.
4–12 students | 5–8 minutes
One long or two shorter solos or concert etudes (secular or sacred) from standard concert literature from one of the following categories: snare drum, timpani, mallet, keyboard percussion (including but not limited to orchestra bells/glockenspiel, xylophone, marimba or vibraphone) or multiple percussion (multiple percussion has no standard set of instruments but may comprise a combination of snare drums, keyboard percussion, pedal bass drum, concert toms and/or small instruments such as triangle, wood blocks or cymbals).
Drum sets, electronic devices and handbells are not permitted. Sacred selections, if used, should be in a traditional style. Memorization is not required. Keyboard accompaniment is optional; however, if a composition is written to include an accompaniment, it must be performed with one. With either one or two selections, the combined performance time must be within the stated time range.
2 or 4 students | 5–10 minutes
One long or two shorter selections (secular or sacred) from any of the specified musical periods.⁴ One piano with two performers, two pianos with two performers, or two pianos with four performers. No piano concertos or other works originally for piano and orchestra may be used. Sacred selections, if used, should be in a traditional style. Performers must turn their own pages and may not switch parts within a selection. Memorization is not required. With either one or two selections, the combined performance time must be within the stated time range.
*Musical periods are Renaissance, Baroque, Classical (including Beethoven), Romantic, Impressionistic and music since 1900.
If you are using digital sheet music (or something similar printed from an online download), please provide proof of purchase indicating the number of allowable copies, the source of the download (e.g., IMSLP) or a “permission-to-use letter” with your music.
All performers and accompanists who use music for their performances must use an original copy of the music. In addition, one original copy of each selection of music performed must be supplied for use as a judge’s copy, with the measures numbered beginning with the first full measure. Possible exceptions to these policies are listed below in the copyright section. Recorded accompaniments will not be permitted.
Printable Guidelines for all categories | Music Contest FAQ
If you have any questions about music guidelines or copyright, email the music competition director .
Please remember that you will need 1 original copy of each selection of music you perform for a judge’s copy. If you or your accompanist will be using music for any of your performances, those copies will also need to be original copies.
Photocopies of music may be used only under the following circumstances (handwritten copies fall under the same guidelines):
- The music is in the public domain—it is not copyrighted, the copyright date is before 1928 or the copyright date is between 1928–1963 and has not been renewed.
- The copyrighted music has been ordered but not yet received, and you have a note from a music store stating that you have ordered and paid for the music.
- You present a letter from the publisher or the copyright holder giving permission to copy the music.
- You or your accompanist may reproduce single pages to facilitate page turns. The original published score must also be present on the music stand and/or music rack.
- An emergency copy may be made to replace previously purchased copies which for any reason are not available for an imminent performance. The purchased replacement copies must be substituted at the earliest opportunity.
- If you are using digital sheet music or something similar printed from an online download, you will need to provide proof of purchase or a “permission to use” letter with your music.
Please note further the following copyright considerations.
- Copyrighted music may be edited or simplified provided that the fundamental character—melodically and harmonically—of the work is not distorted.
- Copyrighted lyrics may never be changed without permission of the copyright holder.
- Personal arrangements of a copyrighted work must have the written permission of the copyright holder.
- Please direct any questions on copyright to Mr. Daniel Leedy, (864) 414-7955.
You may bring your own or inquire ahead to hire a BJU student accompanist. Accompanists are $45 per contest and should be paid in person when you meet them. You can request an accompanist in your registration. The deadline to request an accompanist is October 18.
A limited number of rentals are available. Rentals are $25 except for lever harps ($35) and pedal harps ($50). Specify your rentals in your registration.
- Participants may enter a maximum of 3 individual/solo contests. Contestants may not compete against themselves in any group competition; therefore, they may not be a member of more than 1 group within any particular contest area (e.g., competing in 2 different small vocal ensembles).
- Contestants (both individual and group) may win first place more than once in successive years performing different literature.
- Any student who does not fulfill all of the contest requirements will forfeit their right to win but will receive judges’ written critiques.
1st Place Individual
- Trophy
- Paid program fee for the 1st semester of freshman year at BJU ($800–$1475)
- $400 Scholarship for BJU EDUcamp
2nd Place Individual
- Plaque
- $200 Scholarship for BJU EDUcamp
3rd Place Individual
- Plaque
- $200 Scholarship for BJU EDUcamp
1st, 2nd and 3rd Place Group
- Trophy
Side-by-Side Music Experience
Students are strongly encouraged to rehearse and perform in one of the following side-by-side experiences hosted by members and directors of BJU performing groups.
Wind Band
- Open to 9–12th grade students in brass, woodwind, and percussion. Students will rehearse and perform side-by-side with members of the BJU Symphonic Wind Band under the direction of Bruce Cox.
Orchestra
- Open to 9–12th grade students who play violin, viola, cello or bass. Students will rehearse and perform side-by-side with members of the BJU Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Michael Moore.
- Violin I must be able to play with confidence and ease in fifth position, Violin II and Viola in third position, Cello and Bass in fourth position.
Concert Chorus
- Open to SATB singers recommended by their director.
- Each school or homeschool group may select up to 3 balanced quartets of SATB for a total of 12 singers maximum. These singers will rehearse and perform concert choral literature side-by-side with the University Chorale under the direction of Andrew Huish.
Festival Singers
- Open to SATB singers participating in any area of the Festival. This chorus will rehearse and perform side-by-side with the University Singers under the direction of Pattye Casarow.