An Annual Festival of Music, Speech and Drama in Chelmsford

A full copy of all the rules can be found in the syllabus

The festival is for amateurs except for open classes.
All ages will be calculated as of 31st August 2020.
Open classes means there is no age limit.
Entries should be made online.
No competitor may enter more than four solo classes in any one section.
Entry fees should be made at the time of submitting your entry.
A copy of your piece should be given to the adjudicator.
You cannot enter the same piece in more than one class.
Time limits must be strictly observed.
Start times of classes will be adhered to as closely as possible. Please allow at least 10 mins before to arrive at the venue.

If your music requires it you should have an accompanist. It is YOUR responsibility to arrange and pay for one and a list of possible people is in the syllabus.
In SET PIECE classes any edition may be used EXCEPT simplified arrangements.
No repeats are necessary except Da Capo.
Music stands for solo performers are provided. For duets and larger groups please bring your own.
If you play a classical guitar as well as an orchestral string instrument you may enter FOUR solo classes for each.

All items presented should be suitable for a family audience.
No help, coaching or mouthing of words from audience members will be permitted.
No scripts are allowed in classes EXCEPT for prose reading classes.
Please keep props to a minimum. A table and chair will be provided if necessary.
Costume may be worn for drama classes but is not essential.
In verse and prose classes a minimum amount of gesture or movement may be used.
Please note that Musical Theatre classes with movement have been moved to our singing section.

The adjudicator's decision is final. Speaking to the adjudicator during the progress of the competition is not allowed.
A full mark scheme and assessment criteria can be found in the syllabus.
All competitors will be awarded a certificate. For groups of more than 2 just one certificate will be awarded.
If you are awarded 90 marks or more you will receive a medal.
Everyone will receive a mark sheet with comments and targets for future learning.

The use of audio or visual recorders, including still and video cameras and mobile phones is strictly forbidden during performances.

The committee will seek permission to use photographs they take during the festival.

No one will be named in any photograph used here or on social media.

We are very grateful for the many trophies which have been donated to our festival.

Trophies are awarded to those competitors who receive 85 or more marks and win their class.

Unfortunately there are not enough trophies for every class and therefore will be allocated to those classes with a good number of competitors.

The committee reserves the right to change a class trophy.

ALL TROPHIES ARE ON LOAN FOR A YEAR. DISPLAY THEM WITH PRIDE AND RETURN BY THE CLOSING DATE FOR ENTRIES OF THE NEXT FESTIVAL