Duet Singing "Non-Classical" Competition Rules
Duration: 3 to 5 Minutes
Genres: Bollywood, Pop, Folk, Semi-Classical, Light Music, Fusion music (Any Indian Language), film/album songs
Before you register, please read the sections below.
Rules & Regulations
-
There is no age-based categorization for this event.
-
Performance should be in one of the above mentioned music genres.
-
The performer may use a high-quality backing track (Karaoke) or a single acoustic instrument (e.g., Guitar, Keyboard) to enhance their performance (both not mandatory). There will be no instrumental support from KANE.
-
The karaoke for the performance must be sent to
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. at least 10 days prior to the event date. -
The track must not contain any lead vocals, guide vocals, or pre-recorded singing that carries the main melody or lyrics. Subtle background harmonies, chorus effects, or vocal textures that do not assist or replace the participant’s live singing are permitted, at the discretion of the judges. The instrument, if being used has to be played by the participant itself.
-
The performers must know the lyrics and may not use any aids (paper, digital devices, external audio, etc.) on stage.
-
The performance should be limited to the maximum allotted time of 5 minutes.
-
We will not permit any form of prompting during the performance.
-
The participant must register online prior to the registration deadline and receive an email confirmation number from KANE. KANE maintains the right to seek a participant's birth certificate for age verification (if required).
-
KANE reserves the right to photograph and/or video record the performances. We may publish such photos/videos post-event.
-
The Judges' decision will be final.
-
Any violation of the aforementioned rules may result in disqualification of the contestant.
Judging Guidelines
Total Score: 100
1. Vocal Harmony and Blend (30 Points)l
-
Synchronization - Are the two voices hitting the notes exactly together during unison parts?
-
Harmony - If the singers are performing different parts (eg. soprano/alto), is the harmony accurate and pleasing?
-
Balance - Is one singer overpowering the other, or is there a balanced volume between the two voices?
2. Pitch and Vocal Control (20 Points):
-
Sur (Pitch) - Accuracy of notes for both singers.
-
Maintaining a steady tone and breath control throughout the performance.
3. Rhythm and Timing (20 Points):
-
Tempo - Staying in sync with the backing track and with each other.
4. Expression and Chemistry (20 Points):
-
Diction: Clarity of lyrics for both singers.
-
Bhaava (Emotion): How well the duo conveys the mood of the song together.
-
Partner Interaction: Do they acknowledge each other? Is there eye contact and a sense of "singing together" rather than just "singing at the same time"?
-
Style and Versatility - Inclusion of nuances like vibrato, murki, or stylistic "twists" that make the performance unique without over-singing.
5. Stage Presence and Presentation (10 Points):
-
Confidence - Overall comfort on stage and interaction with the audience.
-
Appearance - Visual presentation and attire (appropriate for the genre chosen).
PENALTY APPLIED:
-
a) 10 Points - if the duo is not ready when the name/chest number is called for performance
-
b) 10 Points - if time limit exceeds the maximum allotted time of 5 minutes.
-
c) 10 Points: If the backing track contains lead vocals of the singers or original artists.
- d) 10 - Points - if the participants use lyric sheets, mobile devices, cue cards, or any other visual aids during the performance.
All participants must register before the registration ends. It is important to obtain a registration confirmation email back from KANE. Click the "REGISTER NOW" button on the top. Once you register, you will get an auto-reply from KANE. However, we will review your registration and will confirm it by replying to you via email. This confirmation is mandatory to participate in the event.
Prizes
Winners are chosen as follows:
-
If only one participant is registered for this event, a participation certificate/award will be given.
-
If more than one participant, then first, second and third prize winners are declared based on scoring and the total number of participants.
-
Prizes, certificates, trophies/medals will be awarded to all the winners on the same day/Finale.
Note:
Official judges feedback and comments shall not be publicly disclosed or distributed by the organization. Participants may approach the judges for personal feedback following the event; however, providing such feedback is entirely at the judges’ discretion.
Anytime, for any questions, please e-mail:
We wish you good luck and look forward to meet you and to witness your skills!
Team Malhar![]()

