Instrumental Music Solo "Guitar" 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
-
Separate competition for each age group.
-
No supporting background music or audio is allowed. Pre-recorded background tracks are not permitted. The music should be played live by the participant.
-
Both Acoustic and Electric guitars are permitted. However, for Electric guitars, the participant must bring their own small amplifier and necessary cables.
-
Participants must bring their own instruments. We will provide only a table, chair (if needed), and extension cords for connecting the instrument.
-
We will not permit any form of prompting during the performance.
-
Performing from memory is encouraged, though a music stand for sheet music or notations is permitted.
-
The performance, including the time for setup/tuning, should be limited to a maximum time limit of 6 minutes.
-
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).
-
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/group/team.
Judging Guidelines
Total Score: 100
-
Technical Proficiency & Fingerwork (30 Points):
-
Clarity of notes, accuracy of chords, and fluidity of movement across the fretboard.
-
Rhythmic Accuracy (25 Points):
-
Stability of the tempo.
-
How well does the player maintain the "groove" or beat?
-
Tone & Technique (15 Points):
-
Quality of the sound produced. For acoustic, the resonance; for electric, the appropriate use of settings/patches.
-
Interpretation & Musicality (20 Points):
-
Ability to bring out the melody and "feel" of the piece rather than playing mechanically.
-
Stage Presence & Confidence (10 Points):
-
Posture, hand placement, and the "completeness" of the performance.
PENALTY APPLIED:
- a) 10 Points - if performance exceeds the maximum allowed time of 6 minutes.
- b) 10 Points - if not ready when the name/chest number is called for performance.
- c) 10 Points - if pre-recorded background tracks are used.
- 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 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![]()

