Nerves are the result of uncertainty and excitement can be channeled into performance

How scoring works in Southern California (SCSBOA)

The total number of points possible is 100. The band is judged in three areas or captions: Music (450), General Effect (350), and Visual (200). Judging focuses on the what and how of what the performing group is doing with regard to program design, and how they demonstrate achievement of the high standard of excellence consistent with the best bands in Southern California. Points are assigned in five categories or boxes. Each box represents a range of points assigned using a criteria reference or scoring rubric. Box 1 represents a Superior performance, while Box 5 indicates some major work needed. For instance, a score reflecting the lowest Box 1 score possible in every caption, will result in a total band score of 90.4. A total scores reflecting a low Box 2 adds up to a 75.3.

The Music Performance caption carries the highest assignment of points. Musical performance is to be evaluated based on aural impression. What we hear, not what we want to hear. Even though the group is evaluated in total, comments about any facet of performance, including individual contribution, is completely appropriate and will affect the resultant score of the entire group.

The General Effect caption is an appraisal of the total product, including all areas of program design, coordination, and execution. The ensembleís presentation should generate a reaction to the expression of emotional, intellectual, and aesthetic efforts. Since judges reward achievement, it is important to remember that the construction, or content of a program, in combination with the level of performance, results in an overall impression.

The Visual caption assesses the depth and quality of visual performance technique, and the expression of excellence, while considering the composition and coordination of all elements of the visual performance. From overall movement ability, to control of the visual pulse, the visual caption looks specifically at individual skills, relative to the level of training received.

Judges arenít usually wrong!

For parents and students — what to look for concerning the “what” and the “how.”

Musically

Does it sound good?
Is it polished and does the music seem mastered by the performers?
Does anything stick out,  either individuals or unusual sounds?
Is it in tune?
Is it together?
Do the instruments sound characteristically like theyíre supposed to?
Does the music sound weak and unsupported?
Do we convey the message or intent of the tune?
Is it entertaining?
Is the ensemble providing any kind of dynamic contrast?
Do the percussion parts seem to enhance whatís happening in the wind group?
Does the group demonstrate the endurance to effectively perform the entire show?

Visually

Are the forms (drill moves) readable?
Does the performance appear visually confident?
Are the feet moving in time with the music?
Is your eye drawn to inconsistency or lack of uniformity?
Are the upper body orientations the same and uniform?
Is spacing between performers consistent and equal?
Are the flags moving in time?
Does the color guard choreography enhance what’s happening in the music?
Does the drill enhance whatís happening in the music?
Is there a confidence displayed by every performer?
Does the performance look even and polished?
Are the color choices reflective of the mood of the music?
Are the color choices effective against the band backdrop?

Things that don’t count

What kind of buses we go to the comp in
Whether they like us or not?
What color uniforms we have?
Anything to do with reputation.