Here are a few reminders about CMEA Bay Section Band Festivals

• Are you aware of whether you are choosing to sight-read or taking a clinic from an adjudicator? Last minute changes (on the day of the festival, for example) can cause havoc with the adjudicator rotation process for both clinics and sight-reading. Make sure that you are satisfied with what you've chosen to do before going to the festival.

• There is no restriction on which piece you may select in the sight-reading clinic, this includes schools with multiple groups entered. However, it is strongly suggested that you select from the side of the conductor's folder that represents your school (middle school or high school). For more information, read the section on Sight-reading in the Bay Section Handbook.
• Remember that only high school bands need to sight-read to qualify for a Unanimous Superior Rating. Junior high schools, intermediate schools, middle schools, and elementary schools do not need to sight-read to receive a Unanimous Superior Rating. However, in the very humble opinion of this educator, I feel that ALL groups should sight-read for the educational experience.
• Don't over-program for the band festival. Remember that you only have 25 minutes to set-up, perform, and get off the stage. That amounts to no more than approximately 17 minutes of music (including the breaks between pieces). Three (3) or less selections are recommended not exceeding 17 minutes.
• Is the music you are selecting appropriate for the band festival? The Bay Section Handbook requires art music as opposed to pop music (sometimes there's a very fine line there). If you have a question, contact at least two (2) active adjudicators or your Area Representative for opinions.
• Don't forget to bring three (3) scores for each selection. Remember, sometimes an adjudicator "hears" more when he/she is free of a score. Also, if possible, try to select contrasting selections to demonstrate your groups versatility.
• Go up and say "Hi!" to the adjudicators before you play. They are hard working music educators just like you and I.
• The Bay Section Handbook states that NO AUDIENCE is allowed in any sight-reading or clinic event. Hey, I didn't write it, it's in the handbook.
• Fill out those adjudicator evaluations and festival evaluation sheets. This may be the very last thing on you mind, but if you have a definite opinion on ANY aspect of that particular festival you have just attended, you had better say it.
• Remind your students that this is an EDUCATIONAL FESTIVAL, not a contest. There are no winners or losers here. Sometimes we lose sight of that.

If you think it's appropriate, let me know what you think of the band sight-reading music selected for this year's CMEA Bay Section Band Festivals. Much thought and effort goes into the sight-reading music every year. Drop me a line by mail or e-mail. Your knowledgeable feedback is always appreciated.