Description
A musical composition entry may be for voice, instruments, or a combination of voice and instruments. Lyrics may or may not be included in vocal compositions. The composition is not to exceed five minutes. The entry must relate to the current Reflections Program theme.
The use of composition software is permitted. Students are strongly discouraged from submitting highly edited Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI) sequences or audio files. The recording submitted must capture performers in real-time. The entry may not include imported MIDI or other source files, or use algorithmic composition software.
Use of notation software for the purpose of creating scores and printed parts is permitted. Whether the score is handwritten or computer-generated, appropriate instrumentation and voicing are required for the performance.
Musical composition entrants are not to borrow from copyrighted material.
Whether an entry uses a variety of techniques or a simple approach, it will be judged primarily on how well the student uses his or her artistic vision to portray the theme. A well-developed concept is more important than technique.
Musical Notation
Whether a student must submit musical notation is determined by his or her grade division:
- Primary and Intermediate: No notation is required. Iconic notation may be submitted. Iconic notation is “made-up” notation.
- Middle/Junior and Senior: Notation, either traditional, tablature, or electronic, is required. The notation should aid the listener and serve as a guide through the piece.
Adults may not assist. Physically challenged students may dictate to another person who may write the notation. The quality or accuracy of the notation and performance support the musical idea, but they are not considered judging criteria.
Presentation
- Entries may not exceed five minutes.
- Submit a CD recording of a performance of the composition.
- Students are not required to perform their own compositions.
- A student’s composed work may be performed by a group.
- Score size:
- Entries should be no larger than 11 inches by 14 inches.
- Band and orchestra compositions may be 11 inches by 16 inches.
- Do not mount or bind the scores.
Recommendations for Quality Recordings
- Make the room you record in as quiet as possible. Close windows and turn off all noise-making devices in the room (air conditioners, fans, telephones, etc.). Do not place the recording device on top of an instrument or speakers.
- Don’t record at too loud (in the red zone on the meter) or too soft (meter barely moving) a level.
- Record a short test and listen to it while watching the meter. If needed, improve recording quality by changing the record volume or microphone location.
- Return to the beginning of the CD and record two seconds of silence; then start performing your composition. Finish with another two seconds of silence.
Review the complete Musical Composition Rules in the PDF below. Students must adhere to the Musical Composition Rules as well as the General Student Participation Rules.
