Piano Solo & Ensemble Archives
District
Standard of Ratings
Exemplary
An exemplary performance that consistently demonstrates true musical expression and few technical errors. The performance is worthy of the distinction of being recognized as among the very best.
Outstanding
An outstanding performance of distinctive quality yet has minor defects in musical expressions and fundamental techniques.
Satisfactory
A satisfactory performance showing accomplishment and marked promise, but lacking consistency of musical expression and fundamental technique.
Developing
A developing performance indicating room for improvement in consistent musical expression and fundamental technique. Such a performance would include many technical errors, poor musical expression and ineffective use of existing instrumental or choral voicing.
Ineffective
An ineffective performance indicating obvious lack of overall preparation.
State
Standard of Ratings
Gold
This rating is the highest level of musical achievement performance in the MSHSAA sponsored music festivals. This performance is musically artistic and exemplary in all aspects. It is worthy of the distinction of being recognized as among the very best. The performance is “thorough”, nearly flawless, and “always consistent” in maturity of tone, pitch center, technical facility and musical expression. The performer(s) demonstrate the highest level of preparation, poise and confidence. The adjudicator comments are positive and complimentary in all areas of the performance. There may be suggestions for continued growth and development.
Silver
This rating is a highly commendable level of musical achievement. This performance is artistic and outstanding in many aspects. There are “minor” inconsistencies and the performance is not completely “thorough” and “consistent” in
maturity of tone, pitch center, technical facility and musical expression. The performer(s) demonstrate an outstanding level of preparation, poise and confidence. The adjudicator comments are mostly positive and complimentary. There will be suggestions and techniques for continued growth and development regarding the minor inconsistencies in the performance.
Bronze
This rating is a commendable level of musical achievement. This performance has some musically artistic aspects and shows accomplishment and potential but needs more polish and refinement. There are several inconsistencies in maturity of tone, pitch center, technical facility and musical expression. The performer(s) demonstrate an excellent level of preparation, poise and confidence. The adjudicator comments are somewhat positive and complimentary. There will be suggestions for continued growth and development regarding the several inconsistencies in the performance.