Instrumental Music Solo "Keyboard" Competition Rules

 

Age Groups

  • Sub-Juniors: Age 5- 7 Years

  • Juniors: Age 8- 10 Years

  • Seniors: Age 11 - 13 Years

  • Youth: Age 14 - 17 Years

  • Adults: Age 18 and above

Duration: 6 Minutes

Genre: Any

Before you register, please read the sections below.


Rules & Regulations

  1. Separate competition for each age group.

  2. No supporting background music or audio is allowed. Pre-recorded background tracks are not permitted. The music should be played live by the participant. 

  3. Participants must bring their own instruments. We will provide only a table, chair (if needed), and extension cords for connecting the instrument.

  4. We will not permit any form of prompting during the performance.

  5. The use of built-in rhythms (styles) and auto-chords is allowed, but the main melody must be played live.

  6.  Use of pre-recorded MIDI sequences or "background tracks" created by others is prohibited. All sounds must be triggered live.

  7. Performing from memory is encouraged, though a music stand for sheet music or notations is permitted.

  8. The performance, including the time for setup should be limited to a maximum time limit of 6 minutes.

  9. The contestant's age must fall within the specified age category as of January 1 of the current year. The participant must register online prior to the registration deadline and receive a confirmation number from KANE. KANE maintains the right to seek a participant's birth certificate for age verification (if required).

  10. KANE reserves the right to photograph and/or video record the performances. We may publish such photos/videos post-event.

  11. The Judges’ decision will be final.

  12. Any violation of the aforementioned rules may result in disqualification of the contestant/group/team.

Judging Guidelines

Total Score: 100

  •  Technical Proficiency & Fingerwork (30 Points):

  • Playing the correct notes and chords without slips.

  • Dexterity - Fluidity of movement across the keys, especially during fast passages or scales.

  • Articulation - Clarity of the notes; ensuring they aren't "muddled" or "cut off" unintentionally.

 

  • Rhythmic Accuracy (25 Points):

  • Accuracy of rhythmic patterns. 

  • How well is the tempo maintained? 

  • If using a built-in rhythm/metronome, how perfectly does the player stay in sync with the beat?

3. Tone and Patch Selection (15 Points):

  • Suitability - Does the chosen sound fit the genre of the song?

  • Dynamics - Use of touch sensitivity (playing soft vs. loud) to give the music "soul."

  1. Interpretation and Expression (20 Points):

  • Musicality - The "feel" of the piece. Does it sound mechanical, or does the performer bring out the emotion of the melody?

  • Does the playing reflect the specific style?

    5.   Stage Presence and Confidence (10 Points):

  • Posture - Proper sitting or standing position and hand placement.

  • Engagement - The performer's focus and the "completeness" of the performance.

PENALTY APPLIED:

  1. a) 10 Points - if performance exceeds the maximum allowed time of 6 minutes.
  2. b) 10 Points - if not ready when the name/chest number is called for performance.
  3. c) 10 Points - if pre-recorded background tracks are used.
  4. d) Disqualification: If it is determined that the performer is "ghost-playing" (pretending to play over a pre-recorded track).

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: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

We wish you good luck and look forward to meet you and to witness your skills!

Team Malhar