Question 1

Performance Rules/Guidelines Overview

Accepted Answer

Novice Divisions:

Novice competitors should play three tunes: either [1] an air, followed by a pause, then a strathspey and a reel, or [2] a march, strathspey, and a reel played without pausing between tunes. If you wish to play an air and a march/strathspey/reel set, you may, but only three of the four tunes will contribute to your final score.

Novice competitors may have sheet music on stage with them if so desired. Those who choose to use music should bring their own stand and clips/pins.

Open Divisions:

Open competitors should play four tunes: an air, followed by a pause, then a march, strathspey, and reel played without pausing between tunes. Open competitors may NOT use sheet music whilst on stage.

All Divisions:

All competitors must perform as solo fiddlers - accompanists/backing tracks of any kind are not permitted. All competitors must compete on a standard four-string violin. Cross-tuning/scordatura is permissible.

Highland dress (kilts for men, kilted skirt and/or tartan sash for women) is highly encouraged and strongly preferred.

For complete rules and performance standards, click Here.

Question 2

Is there a time constraint on my set?

Accepted Answer

There are no time limits placed on tunes/sets.

Question 3

What are the judging standards?

Accepted Answer

Competitors will be judged on the following categories: Interpretation/expression; time; and execution. Please view the Guidelines and Rubric for detailed information on scoring.

Frequently asked questions

Performance Rules/Guidelines Overview

Is there a time constraint on my set?

What are the judging standards?