for the Cheltenham Festival of Performing Arts
3rd May to 13th May – we look forward to seeing you!
The Festival is an opportunity for performers to try out their skills in the wonderful setting of Cheltenham Town Hall. There are classes for all ages and abilities. Please browse through the syllabus and enter online. The on-line entry system will be operational in December.
Teachers who have a number of performers to enter can use the Multiple Entries Form – please email info@cfpa.org.uk to ask for the Form to be sent to you.
Festival Contacts
| Music |
Secretary – David Terry, tel: 07921 549191
music@cheltenhamfestivalofperformingarts.co.uk
Additional Music Contacts
Strings and Wind – David Terry, tel: 07921 549191
Choirs and Vocals – Vicki Beauregard, tel: 07939 579350
Piano – Sally-Anne Davies, Pippa Harrison, and Penny Liddiard, tel: 01242 252388
| Dance |
Secretary – Carol McDowall, tel: 01242 514582
dance@cheltenhamfestivalofperformingarts.co.uk
| Speech & Drama |
Secretary – Rebecca Vines, tel: 07891 795586
speechdrama@cheltenhamfestivalofperformingarts.co.uk
Entries
Entry fees for each class are shown in the Syllabus. Spectators should note that the class entry fee is for the performer only. Tickets for admission for those who wish to watch performances are £4 and will be available from the Town Hall Box Office beforehand and at any time during the Festival.
Friends of the Festival are entitled to free entry on any day. (click here for details of how to become a Friend).
The on-line entry system will be operating from 1st December, 2022 and the Closing Date for all entries, including Own Composition, is 1st February 2023. Own Compositions (Poems and Stories, see Devised and Improvised Work) must then be uploaded onto the website on or before 1st April 2023.
Entries received after the closing date will only be accepted at the discretion of the Section Secretary.
Conditions of Entry – see here
Festival Timetable
This timetable is for provisional informational only and cannot be finalised until all the entries have been received and the classes planned in detail. The final version of the timetable will be published on the website in March 2023.
Syllabus Contents:
| Music |
| Music Rules | Recorders | Strings | |
| Choral | Music Making | Chamber Music & Ensembles | |
| Vocal | Junior Ensemble | Woodwind & Brass | |
| School Choirs | Piano | Nutland Memorial Award Class |
| Dance |
| Dance Rules | Dance Classes |
| Speech & Drama |
General Information
| Valerie Walsh Award | Child Protection Policy | Accessibility | |
| Copyright Rules | Creating a Safe Festival | Friends of the Festival | |
| General Rules | Equal Opportunities | Donations | |
| Accompanists | Privacy Statement |
Mark Schemes for 2023
for Dance, Speech & Drama, and Music, with the exception of Open Piano
| 90 and over | Outstanding | |
| 85 – 89 | Honours | |
| 80 – 84 | Distinction | |
| 75 – 79 | Merit |
for Open Piano
| 90 and over | An exceptional performance, both technically and artistically | |
| 87 – 89 | An excellent performance technically and artistically | |
| 84 – 86 | A convincing performance technically and artistically | |
| 81 – 83 | A capable performance showing some artistic appreciation and/or technical ability | |
| 78 – 80 | A performance showing development of technique and/or communication | |
| 75 – 77 | A performance limited in its communication |
| MUSIC |
Rules for Music Classes
| M1 | The performer’s age is reckoned as on 31st August in the year prior to the Festival and will be strictly observed |
| M2 | The Adjudicator’s decision is final. |
| M3 | Time limits must be strictly adhered to. Performers who over-run will be penalised by the loss of one mark per minute or part of a minute. |
| M4 | ‘Own Choice’ titles do not need to be notified on the entry form. ‘Own Choice’ pieces must conform to the standard of tests set at the Festival and the Committee reserves the right to refuse a piece, in the class, that is not of the required standard. Titles of ‘Own Choice’ music must be announced. |
| M5 | An original score of music, not a photocopy, of an own choice piece must be in the room. A copy of own choice music must be handed to the adjudicator at the beginning of the class and, in the “Set Piece” classes, the prescribed edition and key, where specified, must be used. Failure to do either of these will mean that the performer will receive an adjudication but no mark. See also copyright rules. |
| M6 | Performers may not enter more than once in a class unless specified. |
| M7 | Entrants are advised that the Festival no longer engages official accompanists. |
| M8 | Performers in ‘Own Choice’ Classes may not offer items with which they have already won prizes in Cheltenham Festivals in the past 3 years, nor may they enter the same piece in more than one Class. |
| M9 | Backing Tracks – whether CD, Tape or other media – are not permitted except where specified. |
| M10 | Songs From The Shows: Performers are reminded that, due to Performing Rights, no costume or scenery may be used. Movement is, however, allowed. |
| M11 | For Music classes split into ‘a’ and ‘b’ sets: Each set will be adjudicated with 1st, 2nd, 3rd places and medals. Only one cup will be awarded overall. |
| M12 | Coaching: No instructions, mouthing of words or gestures by a teacher, tutor, or parent is allowed during a performance. This, and/or any other off-stage direction, may result in a loss of marks. |
| Choral |
Adjudicator – Suzzie Vango
Passionate about the arts and choral education, Suzzie’s high-energy vocal workshops have gained her an international reputation as a vocal leader, working with singers of all ages around the world. In demand as a chorus master, choral director and voice coach, she directs and sings with the critically acclaimed female a cappella quintet Papagena, conducts the National Children’s Choir, Orchestra of the Swan Chamber Choir and Ex Cathedra Vocal Academy. Collaborations have seen her leading workshops for: the London Symphony Orchestra, Stagecoach, The Stay at Home Choir, Sing for Pleasure, ABCD and the National Youth Choirs of Great Britain.
Suzzie is Associate Artist at the University of Warwick, Vocal Coach for the CBSO Youth Chorus, Singing Teacher at the University of Birmingham, Schools Programme Leader for Music of Life Foundation working with children with disabilities, and a vocal tutor for Ex Cathedra Education, regularly contributing her own compositions to their set of music education resources, “SingMaker”.
Her career as a soprano has taken her around the world, performing and recording with some of the top UK vocal ensembles, and her warm-up book ‘How to Make Your Choir Sound Awesome’, written with Lucy Hollins, was published by Banks Music Publications in 2022.
Adjudicator – Lucy Hollins
Lucy Hollins is one of the most respected conductor-animateurs of her generation. Having studied and won several prestigious prizes in the UK and Canada, her leadership experience ranges across vocal and instrumental music-making with professional, amateur, youth and adult ensembles at the very highest level of each. She has appeared on TV and radio, premiered new works, adjudicated competitions, toured extensively throughout the UK and internationally, and worked alongside some of the world’s finest musicians and directors.
Lucy is Acting Director of Music at the University of Warwick, Conductor of the London Symphony Orchestra’s Junior Choir and Associate Conductor of the London Symphony Chorus. She is a leading expert in the field of music education and engagement, specialising in vocal outreach. As a conducting teacher, Lucy enjoys working with musicians of all ages and stages to enable them to be their most confident and effective. She is also a passionate concert designer and presenter, creating exciting performances for young people with many organisations, including the London Philharmonic Orchestra, Warwick Arts Centre and London Symphony Orchestra.
| C01 | Choral Societies or Mixed Voice Choirs – minimum 20 voices – adult choirs. The Programme must contain at least one unaccompanied item. Minimum of three pieces. The choice of programme will be considered in the adjudication. (12 mins). Please note the new time limit and see rule M3 as time limits must be adhered to or marks deducted which may affect placings. | £25.00 |
| C02 | Male Voice Choirs – minimum 20 voices – adult choirs. As C01. | £25.00 |
| C03 | Female Voice Choirs – minimum 20 voices – adult choirs. As C01. | £25.00 |
| C04 | Sacred Music – Any combination of voices. Two contrasting items with a minimum of two parts and containing at least one unaccompanied item. Choice of programme will be considered in adjudication. (8 mins) | £25.00 |
| C05 | Folk Song – Any combination of voices. A programme of two contrasting folk song arrangements, not necessarily British, with a minimum of two parts and containing at least one unaccompanied item. Choice of programme will be considered in adjudication. (8 mins) | £25.00 |
| C06 | Youth Choirs – Any combination of voices. Own choice. Two contrasting songs, one in at least three parts. (8 mins) | £25.00 |
| C07 | Youth Choirs – Any combination of voices. Own choice. Two contrasting songs, one in at least two parts. Non-competitive class with adjudication comments. (8 mins) | £25.00 |
| C08 | Community Choirs or Rock Choirs – Any combination of voices. Own choice. Two contrasting pieces. Non-competitive class with adjudication comments. (8 mins) | £25.00 |
| C09 | Songs from the Shows – Any combination of voices. Own choice. Can be separate items or a medley. (10 mins) | £25.00 |
THE GOLD CUP (Classes C01, C02, C03), originally donated by the late Mr A N Price, will be awarded to the choir from the Adult Choir Classes which, in the opinion of the adjudicator, gave the most memorable performance.
THE SILVER PLATE will be awarded to the Youth Choir which, in the opinion of the adjudicator, gave the most memorable performance.
| Vocal |
Junior Vocal
Adjudicator – Suzzie Vango
Please note: all set pieces must use the prescribed edition and key. Failure to do either of these will mean that the performer will receive an adjudication but no mark.
All classes are non-gender specific.
| V01 | Set Solo – Any Voice – 10 years and under. ‘Pirates’ by Lin Marsh from Junior Songscape: Earth Sea and Sky or the ABRSM Songbook Plus Book 1 | £6.00 |
| V02 | Songs from the Shows – Any Voice – 10 years and under. Any song from ‘Kids’ Musical Theatre Collection – Volume 1, published by Hal Leonard. No costume or scenery may be used but movement is allowed. (4 mins) | £6.00 |
| V03 | Set Solo – Any Voice – 11 and 12 years. ‘The Wizard’ by Peter Jenkyns (Novello NOV160068) | £6.00 |
| V04 | Songs from the Shows – Any Voice – 11 to 12 years. Solo song from any Musical Show or Musical Film. Suitability of text and subject matter for the age group will be considered in the adjudication. No costume or scenery may be used but movement is allowed. (4 mins) | £6.00 |
| V05 | Vocal Duet or Trio – 13 years and under. One song, own choice (predominance of harmony singing required). No Performer may enter this class more than once unless it is with a different partner performing a different work. (4 mins) | £9.00 |
| V06 | Set Solo – Any Voice – 13 and 14 years. ‘The Little Spanish Town’ by Peter Jenkyns (Novello NOV160071) |
£6.00 |
| V07 | Songs from the Shows – Any Voice – 13 to 14 years. Solo song from any Musical Show or Musical Film. Suitability of text and subject matter for the age group will be considered in the adjudication. No costume or scenery may be used but movement is allowed. (4 mins) | £6.00 |
| V08 | Folk Song from around the World – Any Voice – 10 to 14 years. Own choice. With or without accompaniment. (4 mins) | £6.00 |
| V10 | Solo – 16 years and under (Changing Voices). Own choice. No pop, songs from shows or films. (4 mins) | £6.00 |
| V11 | Vocal Duet or Trio – 15 years and under. One song, own choice (predominance of harmony singing required). No performer may enter this class more than once unless it is with a different partner performing a different work. (4 mins) | £9.00 |
| V12 | Set Solo – 15 and 16 years. ‘Spring Sorrow’ by John Ireland (The Boosey and Hawkes Song Collection Vol. 2) | £6.00 |
| V13 | Songs from the Shows – Any Voice – 15 to 18 years. Solo song from any Musical Show or Musical Film. Suitability of text and subject matter for the age group will be considered in the adjudication. No costume or scenery may be used but movement is allowed. (4 mins) | £6.00 |
| V14 | Folk Song from around the World – Any Voice – 15 to 18 years. Own choice. With or without accompaniment. (4 mins) | £6.00 |
| V15 | Solo – Any Voice – 17 to 19 years. Own choice. No pop, songs from shows or films. (4 mins) | £6.00 |
| V16 | Vocal Duet or Trio – 19 years and under. One song, own choice (predominance of harmony singing required). No performer may enter this class more than once unless it is with a different partner performing a different work. (4 mins) | £9.00 |
| V17 | Recital Class Grade 6+ – Any voice – 19 years and under. Three contrasting songs from different genres of Gr 6+ standard (ABRSM or equivalent). No rock or pop. Programme choice will be taken into consideration in the adjudication. (10 mins) | £10.00 |
Adult Vocal – NEW format – a Masterclass with David Crown
David has established himself as one of the leading choral conductors in the UK. His abilities as a vocal technician as well as his outstanding gifts as a conductor have placed him in a unique position in his field. He is currently Musical Director of Cheltenham Bach Choir, Opus 48 and Vox Chamber Choir. David’s concerts and recordings have received plaudits around the UK and abroad. As a guest conductor he is increasingly in demand for choirs and orchestras. David’s other work includes choral masterclasses and workshops. His background as a professional singer, professional viola player and sought-after singing teacher have all contributed to the depth he brings to his work.
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We are delighted to be able to offer the chance to take part in a Masterclass, led by David Crown, on Thursday 11th May, 2023, to improve your performance through tips on technique, interpretation and presentation followed by the opportunity to compete in the Festival Vocal Championships. Each participant will be allocated 30 minutes where they will work with David on one (or two pieces) to gain expert advice on how they could improve their singing. Everyone is invited to sing for one or both of the awards, selecting one qualifying piece that fits into the categories below. There will only be a certain number of slots available and will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis taken from the entry system.
The Masterclass will be open to all (age 17 and over) and the following options will hopefully offer something for everyone.
| MCB | Masterclass with entry into both Championships | £60.00 |
| MCGM | Masterclass with entry into the Gertrude Mace Championship | £50.00 |
| MCCV | Masterclass with entry into the Cleeve Vale Championship | £50.00 |
| MSB | Spectator with entry into both Championships | £30.00 |
| MSGM | Spectator with entry into the Gertrude Mace Championship | £20.00 |
| MSCV | Spectator with entry into the Cleeve Vale Championship | £20.00 |
The Awards
The Gertrude Mace Memorial Shield
To compete for this award your choice of music must be from one of the following genres:
Oratorio, Operatic or Dramatic Aria, Lieder, Chanson, 20th/21st Century English or American Art Song
Cleeve Vale Rotary Club Trophy
To compete for this award your choice of music must be from one of the following genres:
Operetta, Gilbert and Sullivan, Spiritual, Folk (with or without accompaniment), Songs from the Shows
Accompanists
For all singers taking part in the Masterclass, the Festival will provide a professional accompanist who will accompany the singer and work with David, and this is included in the entry fee. For the Championships you are welcome to perform with your own accompanist or you can choose to use the official one. We will be able to offer the chance to rehearse with the official accompanist before the Championships start. However, if you choose to be a Spectator and only enter the Championships you will be expected to provide your own accompanist and cover the cost.
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| School Choirs |
All School Choirs must be composed of members from one school. For own choice, contrasting songs, a copy must be provided for the adjudicator. Please note: parents and friends must pay the usual spectator entry fee.
Adjudicator – tba
| X10 | Infants – 7 years and under. ‘The Body Song’ by Mark and Helen Johnson from Songs for Every Occasion by Out of the Ark AND one piece of similar difficulty. (6 mins) | £15.00 |
| X20 | Girls, Boys or Mixed – 11 years and under – Novice entries. ‘Learn to Swim’ by Alan Simmons from We’re the Wellies You Wear AND one contrasting piece, own choice. Any School which has won X20 or X25 in the last 3 years may not enter this class. (7 mins) |
£15.00 |
| X25 | Girls, Boys or Mixed – 11 years and under – Open entries. ‘The Bare Necessities’ – 2 Part Arr. Greg Gilpin (Hal Leonard) AND one contrasting piece, own choice. (7 mins) | £15.00 |
| X26 | Local Authority School, with under 100 pupils on roll – 11 years and under. Own choice. Two contrasting songs. The Festival may be able to help with transport costs. If help is needed, the headteacher should write to the Music Secretary giving details. | £15.00 |
| X27 | Any Village Primary School with under 100 pupils on roll – 11 years and under. Own choice. Two contrasting songs. The Festival may be able to help with transport costs. If help is needed, the headteacher should write to the Music Secretary giving details. | £15.00 |
| X30 | Girls, Boys or Mixed – 13 years and under. ‘Sim Shalom (Prayer for Peace)’ – by Will Lopes for Children’s Choir (Hal Leonard) AND one contrasting piece, own choice. (7 mins) | £15.00 |
| X40 | Girls, Boys or Mixed – 16 years and under. Own choice. Two contrasting songs. | £15.00 |
| X50 | Girls, Boys or Mixed – 19 years and under. Own choice. Two contrasting songs. | £15.00 |
| Music Making, Recorders and Junior Ensembles |
Music stands will be available.
| X60 | Infant School Music Making – 7 years and under. Own choice. Any form of music making except choirs. | £15.00 |
| X61 | Recorder Solo – 7 years and under. Own choice. Piano accompaniment optional. Any recorder. (1 min) |
£6.00 |
| X90 | Junior Ensemble – 12 years and under. Own choice. Any number and combination of instruments. Piano optional but pianist must be within class age range. (7 mins) | £15.00 |
| X91 | Junior Ensemble – 12 years and under – Novice entries. Own choice. Any number and combination of instruments. Any school which has won X90 in the last 3 years may not enter this class. Piano optional but pianist must be within class age range. Non-competitive class with adjudication comments. (7 mins) |
£15.00 |
| Piano |
Adjudicator – Timothy Barratt ARAM, GRSM, LRAM, ARCM, LMusTCL.
Timothy studied on a Scholarship at the Royal Academy of Music, winning many major awards, and completed his studies with Vlado Perlemuter in Paris and Geoffrey Parsons. He has toured and broadcast extensively in the UK and abroad as soloist, accompanist and chamber music player. Whilst still a student he developed a special interest in song accompaniment through playing for masterclasses at Aldeburgh, subsequently partnering such artists as Dame Felicity Lott and Robert White. Teaching forms a major part of his musical life and he works with pupils of all ages and levels from beginner to post-graduate. He was Head of Keyboard at Dulwich College for almost 25 years whilst also teaching at the RAM and TCM and now pursues a busy freelance career.
An ABRSM examiner since 1991, he is also a trainer, moderator and mentor. Other work for the AB includes selecting the graded piano pieces and presenting seminars. He frequently directs masterclasses for performers and teachers’ workshops in the UK and Far East and is in demand as a competition and festival adjudicator.
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Please Note: No repeats in Set Pieces. For own choice classes, pieces should be the standard of the grade but not necessarily from a current existing syllabus. No candidate may enter more than one grade class in the same age group. The adjudicator reserves the right to award adjudication with no mark. Performers must bring an original copy of the music to the class. Failure to do this will mean that the performer will receive adjudication but no mark. See also copyright rules.
| P07 | Solo 7 years and under. Own choice. (2 mins) | £6.00 |
| P08 | Solo 8 years and under, Grade 1 and under. Own choice. (2 mins) | £6.00 |
| P09 | Solo 8 years and under, Grade 1 and over. Own choice. (2 mins) | £6.00 |
| P10 | Solo 9 years and under. Own choice on the Theme of ‘Animals’ (2 mins) | £6.00 |
| P12 | Solo 9 years and under, Grade 1 & under. Own choice. No Jazz, Blues, Ragtime, Pop, Musical Theatre, Film. (3 mins) | £6.00 |
| P13 | Solo 9 years and under, Grade 2 & under. Own choice. No Jazz, Blues, Ragtime, Pop, Musical Theatre, Film. (3 mins) | £6.00 |
| P14 | Solo 9 years and under, Grade 3 & over. Own choice. No Jazz, Blues, Ragtime, Pop, Musical Theatre, Film. (3 mins) | £6.00 |
| P15 | Solo Jazz, Popular Music, Musical Theatre & Film, 9 years and under. Own choice. (3 mins) | £6.00 |
| P17 | Duet 10 years and under. Own choice. (3 mins) | £10.00 |
| P21 | Solo Jazz, Popular Music, Musical Theatre & Film, 11 years and under. Own choice. (3 mins) | £6.00 |
| P22 | Solo 11 years and under, Grade 1 & under. Own choice. No Jazz, Blues, Ragtime, Pop, Musical Theatre, Film. (3 mins) | £6.00 |
| P23 | Solo 11 years and under, Grade 2 & under. Own choice. No Jazz, Blues, Ragtime, Pop, Musical Theatre, Film. (3 mins) | £6.00 |
| P24 | Solo 11 years and under, Grade 3 & 4. Own choice. No Jazz, Blues, Ragtime, Pop, Musical Theatre, Film. (3 mins) | £6.00 |
| P25 | Solo 11 years and under, Grade 5 & over. Own choice. No Jazz, Blues, Ragtime, Pop, Musical Theatre, Film. (3 mins) | £6.00 |
| P37 | Duet or Trio 12 years and under. Own choice. (3 mins) | £10.00 |
| P41 | Solo from Memory 13 years and under, EITHER ‘L’Orage’ by Bergmuller Op 109, No 13, OR, ‘Waterfront Jazz’ by Martha Miers: Jazz, Rags & Blues: Book 3, OR, 1st Movement (Allegretto) from Sonatina in G major, Op 36, No 2 by Clementi. | £6.00 |
| P42 | Solo Jazz, Popular Music, Musical Theatre & Film, 13 years and under. Own choice. (4 mins) | £6.00 |
| P43 | Solo 13 years and under, Grade 3 and under. Own choice. No Jazz, Ragtime, Blues, Pop, Musical Theatre, Film. (3 mins) | £6.00 |
| P44 | Solo 13 years and under, Grade 4 & 5. Own choice. No Jazz, Ragtime, Blues, Pop, Musical Theatre, Film. (4 mins) | £6.00 |
| P45 | Solo 13 years and under, Grade 6 & over. Own choice. No Jazz, Ragtime, Blues, Pop, Musical Theatre, Film. (5 mins) | £6.00 |
| P47 | Duet or Trio 13 years and under. Own choice. (4 mins) | £10.00 |
| P52 | Solo Jazz, Popular Music, Musical Theatre & Film, 15 years and under. Own choice. (5 mins) | £6.00 |
| P53 | Solo 15 years and under, Grade 5 and under. Own choice. No Jazz, Ragtime, Blues, Pop, Musical Theatre, Film. (5 mins) | £6.00 |
| P54 | Solo 15 years and under, Grade 6 & 7. Own choice. No Jazz, Ragtime, Blues, Pop, Musical Theatre, Film. (5 mins) | £6.00 |
| P55 | Solo 15 years and under, Grade 8 and above. Own choice. No Jazz, Ragtime, Blues, Pop, Musical Theatre, Film. (5 mins) | £6.00 |
| P56 | Duet Adult and Child. This is a non-competitive class with adjudication and certificate. Own choice. (3 mins) | £10.00 |
| P57 | Duet or Trio 15 years and under. Own choice. (4 mins) | £10.00 |
| P73 | Solo 18 years and under, Grade 5 & under. Own choice. No Jazz, Ragtime, Blues, Pop, Musical Theatre, Film. (4 mins) | £6.00 |
| P74 | Solo 18 years and under, Grade 6, 7 & 8. Own choice. No Jazz, Ragtime, Blues, Pop, Musical Theatre, Film. (6 mins) | £6.00 |
| P80 | Piano Solo, Romantic, Open. One piece by a recognised Romantic composer. Own choice. (10 mins) | £12.00 |
| P81 | Piano Solo, Open. Own choice. Excluding P82 & P83. (10 mins) | £12.00 |
| P83 | Piano Solo, Sonata, Open. First movement of any Sonata. (10 mins). Longer pieces may be played but the Piano Secretary must be notified at the time of entry. | £12.00 |
| P84 | Duet, Open. Own choice. (7 mins) | £12.00 |
| P85 | Trio, 6 hands one piano, Open. Own choice. (10 mins) | £12.00 |
| P86 | Piano Recital, Open. Own choice. Two or more contrasting pieces by different composers. (15 mins) | £15.00 |
| P87 | Piano Solo, Baroque, Open. Own choice. (10 mins) | £12.00 |
| P88 | Open Jazz, Popular Music, Musical Theatre & Film. Own choice. (10 mins) | £12.00 |
| P90 | Piano Solo, 35 years and over. Own choice. (10 mins) | £12.00 |
| Strings (including plucked instruments – eg – classical GUITAR, HARP etc.) |
Adjudicator – Roy Robinson MA, Dip Perf RCM, ARCM (P), ARCM (T), LRAM (T), LTCL (P)
Roy trained as a performer at the Royal College of Music and was a major prize winner in his 4th year of study. He was a dual first study viola pupil of Frederick Riddle and piano pupil of Angus Morrison and holds a complete suite of performing and teaching diplomas on those instruments. He also gained a performing diploma on violin, won the Leslie Alexander Viola competition (the highest award at the RCM) and was awarded an MA in music through later study at Trinity College; he also has a background as an organist.
Roy has spent most of his career combining teaching, performing, examining and adjudicating. He has taught academic music to A Level, his instruments to diploma level and the violin to RAM Exhibitioners. He has coached numerous orchestral and singing courses and festivals for children and has particularly enjoyed conducting adult choral societies. He has a passion for arranging and composing and has several of his works published. He is now enjoying a return to freelance life having recently moved away from the full-time post of Director of Music at Alton School.
He has performed in orchestras and ensembles, as an accompanist and recitalist. He is a busy ABRSM grade, diploma and jazz examiner and has worked extensively overseas, including tours to Malaysia, Hong Kong, Qatar, Jordan, South Africa, Namibia, USA, Bermuda, China and Germany. He is the viola consultant for ABRSM, selector for the present viola syllabus, and has presented teacher meetings abroad.
As an adjudicator member of the British Federation of Music Festivals, Roy is on demand at some of the U.K.’s largest music festivals. He not only enjoys adjudicating his specialist areas but also the complete range of classes as a generalist.
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Performers may not enter a class more than once unless playing different instruments. If there is a sufficient number of entries, classes will be split into separate classes for different instruments.
| S01 | Any Stringed Instrument – 9 years and under. Own choice. (3 mins) | £6.00 |
| S02 | Any Stringed Instrument – Grades 2 and 3. Own choice from any of the major examining boards’ set pieces or publications appropriate to the grade set for the class. | £6.00 |
| S03 | Any Stringed Instrument – Grades 4 and 5. As S02. | £6.00 |
| S04 | Any Stringed Instrument – Grades 6 and 7. As S02. | £6.00 |
| S05 | Any Stringed Instrument – Grade 8 and over. Own choice. (8 mins) | £6.00 |
| S06 | The Barbara Roberts Memorial Prize – Viola under 18 years. Own choice. (7 mins) | £6.00 |
| S07 | Recital – 19 years and under. Any stringed or wind instrument. Own choice of programme. (12 mins) | £6.00 |
| S08 | Any Stringed Instrument – 11 years and under. Own choice. (3 mins) | £6.00 |
| S09 | Any Stringed Instrument – 14 years and under. Own choice. (4 mins) | £6.00 |
| S10 | Any Stringed Instrument – 16 years and under. Own choice. (4 mins) | £6.00 |
| S11 | Any Stringed Instrument – 18 years and under. Own choice. (5 mins) | £6.00 |
| Chamber Music & Ensembles |
Performers may not enter a class more than once, unless playing different instruments. Music stands will be available for groups and ensembles.
| S27 | Group – 11 years and under. Any combination of instruments from 3 to 9 players. Own choice. (6 mins) | £10.00 |
| S28 | Group – 14 years and under. Any combination of instruments from 3 to 9 players. Own choice. (10 mins) | £10.00 |
| S29 | Group – 18 years and under. Any combination of instruments from 3 to 9 players. Own choice. (10 mins) | £10.00 |
| S30 | Duo – 14 years and under. Any 2 solo instruments other than piano, piano accompaniment optional. Own choice. (5 mins) | £10.00 |
| S31 | Duo – 18 years and under. Any 2 solo instruments other than piano, piano accompaniment optional. Own choice. (8 mins) | £10.00 |
| S32 | Duo – Open. Piano and any Wind or String instrument. Own choice. (8 mins) | £10.00 |
| Woodwind & Brass |
Adjudicator – Fiona Berry
Fiona is a freelance music teacher, creative artist and tutor based in Lancashire. She is a graduate of Huddersfield University where she studied Saxophone with Richard Ingham and Flute with Nichola Hunter. She is also the author of the book Play Music Better.
As a saxophonist in her early years, she studied with Tim Redpath, founder member of the Apollo Saxophone Quartet and gained her ATCL diploma on Flute before leaving school.
Fiona is an examiner for Trinity College London and currently teaches both privately and through her online academy, Learn Music Together. Her online program helps adults grow and develop their musical skills in an environment that nurtures confidence.
In her previous role at Bolton School Fiona established the saxophone as one of the most popular instruments to study. She has also directed numerous prize-winning ensembles including the Jazz Berries and Saxberries.
As an ensemble director, she has both conducted and performed at events such as Montreux Jazz Festival and the World Saxophone Congress. Fiona specialises in both classical and Jazz and is adept at teaching both contemporary techniques and improvisation.
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Performers may not enter a class more than once, unless playing different instruments. Accompanist optional.
| W03 | Solo Wind Instrument – Grades 2 and 3. Own choice from any of the major examining boards’ set pieces or publications appropriate to the grade. | £6.00 |
| W04 | Solo Wind Instrument – Grades 4 and 5. As W3. | £6.00 |
| W05 | Solo Wind Instrument – Grades 6 and 7. As W3. | £6.00 |
| W06 | Solo Wind Instrument – Grades 8 and over. Own choice. (8 mins) | £6.00 |
| W07 | Any Wind Instrument – 11 years and under. Own choice. (3 mins) | £6.00 |
| W08 | Any Wind Instrument – 14 years and under. Own choice. (4 mins) | £6.00 |
| W09 | Any Wind Instrument – 16 years and under. Own choice. (4 mins) | £6.00 |
| W10 | Any Wind Instrument – 18 years and under. Own choice. (5 mins) | £6.00 |
| W11 | Ensemble – Open age. Own choice of pieces. (10 mins) | £10.00 |
| S07 | Recital – 19 years and under (any stringed or wind instrument). Own choice of programme. (12 mins) | £10.00 |
| W20 | Any Wind Instrument, Jazz – 14 years and under. Own choice of any Jazz piece (4 mins). Improvisation in the performance is acceptable but the time limit must be adhered to. If a backing track is required, the performer must provide the playback equipment and ensure copyright law is observed. A piano will be available. |
£6.00 |
| W21 | Any Wind Instrument, Jazz – 16 years and under. Own choice. As W20 (4 mins) | £6.00 |
| W22 | Any Wind Instrument, Jazz – 18 years and under. Own choice. As W20 (5 mins) | £6.00 |
| KEITH NUTLAND AWARD FOR FESTIVAL YOUNG MUSICIAN |
NEW RULES TO WIDEN OPPORTUNITY FOR ENTRY
Founded in 1995, this award is in memory of Keith Nutland, a former President of the Festival. The aim is to recognise the skills and talents of the student and the hope is that the prize will be used to help with any future musical training. Young musicians (the ‘students’) are invited to give a recital in front of a panel of judges and an audience.
Award:
The winner will receive a Trophy and a cheque for £1000 and may be invited to give a recital at the Cheltenham Music Festival in the following year. Recital students may be given free admission to the Cheltenham Music Festival, of which Keith Nutland was Treasurer for many years.
PERFORMANCE DATE: Saturday 18th March, 2023.
Venue: Bethesda Church, Great Norwood Street, Cheltenham
RULES FOR ENTRY:
- The student must be living in a family home in Gloucestershire OR be at school in Gloucestershire.
- The student must be post Grade 8 standard (ABRSM or equivalent) in their chosen instrument or voice. They must give a recital of at least two contrasting works and demonstrate skills appropriate to a recital.
- The student must be in Year 13 or Gap year. Not in first year at University/Music College.
- Students must provide their own accompanist if one is needed.
- Students are allowed only one entry into this competition.
Entries:
For Nutland Award Entry forms and any queries, contact
David Terry: 07921 549191 or email Nutland@cheltenhamfestivalofperformingarts.co.uk
Entries must come through the School’s Head of Music or a Music Teacher. Closing date for entries is 1st Feb. 2023. There is an entry fee of £20 per competitor.
In the event of a large number of entries, a preliminary round may be held earlier on the same day as the competition.
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| DANCE |
Rules for Dance Classes
| D1 | Age limit is reckoned as on 31st August in the year prior to the Festival and will be strictly observed |
| D2 | Please ensure that you have applied for a child performance licence, if one is required by law, as no licence will negate your ability to perform. (See the CFPA website for full details on Child Performance Licences). |
| D3 | The Festival is not liable for any copyright infringement caused by CD recordings supplied by the performer. |
| D4 | The Festival requires music on CD. There should be a single recording on the media. Music to be played by officials only. The quality of recording will be taken into account. It is advisable to have a backup CD. |
| D5 | A Performer may not perform the same dance in more than one class. |
| D6 | The time allowed must be strictly adhered to. |
| D7 | In the Group classes, all performers must be on the stage and active during the major portion of the dance. |
| D8 | Performers may not dance more than once in any Solo class. In Duet classes, a performer may only enter one Classical class and one Cabaret class, and likewise in Trio classes. |
| D9 | No school may enter more than 3 groups in the Group classes, and a group must consist of at least 5 persons. |
| D10 | Performers may not transfer to another class without prior permission from the Festival Office. |
| D11 | Cabaret Duets, Trios and Group classes may include song but should not include vocal on the backing track. |
| D12 | In Tap classes ‘standard’ taps (single sound) only must be used. |
| D13 | Tape recording, video filming and photographing of classes are not allowed. |
| D14 | Pointe work is not permitted for any performer under 13 years of age. |
| D15 | Performers will be allowed to re-dance but will not be eligible for first, second or third place. |
| D16 | Individuals shall not be eligible to perform at the Festival if they have changed dancing schools since 1st September in the year prior to the Festival. Note: This rule is in place to allow sufficient time, after an individual has moved to a new dance school, for the dancer’s performance to be appropriately developed by the new teacher, thereby safeguarding the dancer’s physical and psychological wellbeing. |
| D17 | Individuals attending full time vocational dance schools are not eligible to enter. |
| D18 | A Novice is a performer who has not gained 1st, 2nd or 3rd place in any solo section at a comparable Festival. Song is not allowed in the Novice Section. |
| D19 | Please note: classes may be split or combined based on the number of entries received. |
| D20 | The Festival reserves the right to run up to 15 minutes early for any class. |
| D21 | Titles for National and Character dances must be brief and succinct. |
| D22 | Competitors will not be allowed to dance out of section under any circumstances. |
| D23 | In the interest of safeguarding no watching of performances from the Town Hall balconies will be allowed. |
| D24 | In the event that a trophy is awarded to more than one performer, each shall hold the trophy for a proportionate time in alphabetical order of surname. |
| Dance Classes |
Adjudicator – Miss Sharon Wood FIDTA
Sharon has led a highly reputable and respected career as a performer, adjudicator, choreographer and lecturer. She has achieved Fellowship status in all Theatre disciplines and worked professionally in Musical Theatre and Pantomimes across the country
Although Sharon enjoyed performing professionally, her real passion lay in teaching and, on becoming a qualified teacher with the IDTA in 1981, she opened her own school. She also taught in state schools and trained students from year 6 through to GCSE and A level in all aspects of performing arts.
Sharon is the organiser of the Shepshed Spring and Summer festivals and Director/Principal of a thriving performing arts school in the East Midlands, training students for Musical Theatre, Television and film work.
Her students have won IDTA scholarships in Ballet and Modern Jazz and places in the finals of Miss Dance and Dance Master and are now achieving success in the Stage, TV and Film industries. She is committed to developing and encouraging our next generation of performers in all aspects of the entertainment industry alongside her role as an IDTA Examiner, and Adjudicator for Miss Dance, TDCI Championships and for the British and International Federation of Festivals
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| PM | Raymond Wood & Patricia Mace Memorial & Prize PAS de DEUX Class – 18 years and under. (3 mins) The duet can be a classical, contemporary or modern based boy/girl partnership but must include Pas De Deux work. The winners will receive the trophy and a £100 cash prize. Performers who enter the Pas De Deux may still enter Classical and Cabaret sections. |
£9.00 |
| D01 | Solo – 4 years and under. (1 min 30) | £6.00 |
| D02 | Ballet Solo 5 and 6 years. (1 min 30) | £6.00 |
| D03 | Ballet Solo 7 and 8 years. (1 min 30) | £6.00 |
| D04 | Ballet Solo 9 and 10 years. (1 min 30) | £6.00 |
| D05 | Ballet Solo 11 and 12 years. (2 mins) | £6.00 |
| D06 | Ballet Solo 13 and 14 years. (2 mins) | £6.00 |
| D07 | Ballet Solo 15 – 18 years. (2 mins) | £6.00 |
| D08 | Classical Solo 5 and 6 years. (To include Character or National) (2 mins) | £6.00 |
| D09 | Character Solo 7 and 8 years. (2 mins) | £6.00 |
| D10 | Character Solo 9 and 10 years. (2 mins) | £6.00 |
| D11 | Character Solo 11 and 12 years. (2 mins) | £6.00 |
| D12 | Character Solo 13 and 14 years. (2 mins) | £6.00 |
| D13 | Character Solo 15 – 18 years. (2 mins) | £6.00 |
| D15 | National Solo 7 and 8 years. (1 min 30) | £6.00 |
| D16 | National Solo 9 and 10 years. (1 min 30) | £6.00 |
| D17 | National Solo 11 and 12 years. (2 mins) | £6.00 |
| D18 | National Solo 13 and 14 years. (2 mins) | £6.00 |
| D19 | National Solo 15 – 18 years. (2 mins) | £6.00 |
| D20 | Classical Duet under 9 years. (2 mins 30) | £9.00 |
| D21 | Classical Duet 9 and 10 years. (2 mins 30) | £9.00 |
| D22 | Classical Duet 11 and 12 years. (2 mins 30) | £9.00 |
| D23 | Classical Duet 13 and 14 years. (2 mins 30) | £9.00 |
| D24 | Classical Duet 15 – 18 years. (2 mins 30) | £9.00 |
| D25 | Cabaret Duet under 9 years. (2 mins 30) | £9.00 |
| D26 | Cabaret Duet 9 and 10 years. (2 mins 30) | £9.00 |
| D27 | Cabaret Duet 11 and 12 years. (2 mins 30) | £9.00 |
| D28 | Cabaret Duet 13 and 14 years. (2 mins 30) | £9.00 |
| D29 | Cabaret Duet 15 – 18 years. (2 mins 30) | £9.00 |
| D30 | Classical Group 10 years and under. (4 mins) | £15.00 |
| D31 | Classical Group 14 years and under. (4 mins) | £15.00 |
| D32 | Classical Group 18 years and under. (4 mins) | £15.00 |
| D33 | Cabaret Group 10 years and under. (4 mins) | £15.00 |
| D34 | Cabaret Group 14 years and under. (4 mins) | £15.00 |
| D35 | Cabaret Group 18 years and under. (4 mins) | £15.00 |
| D36 | Cabaret Solo 5 and 6 years. (To include Tap, Modern or Lyrical. Song not allowed). (1 min 30) |
£6.00 |
| D37 | Tap Solo 7 and 8 years. (1 min 30) | £6.00 |
| D38 | Tap Solo 9 and 10 years. (1 min 30) | £6.00 |
| D39 | Tap Solo 11 and 12 years. (2 mins) | £6.00 |
| D40 | Tap Solo 13 and 14 years. (2 mins) | £6.00 |
| D41 | Tap Solo 15 – 18 years. (2 mins) | £6.00 |
| D42 | Ballet Group 10 years and under. (4 mins) | £15.00 |
| D43 | Ballet Group 14 years and under. (4 mins) | £15.00 |
| D44 | Ballet Group 18 years and under.(4 mins) | £15.00 |
| D46 | Modern Solo 7 and 8 years. (1 min 30) | £6.00 |
| D47 | Modern Solo 9 and 10 years. (1 min 30) | £6.00 |
| D48 | Modern Solo 11 and 12 years. (2 mins) | £6.00 |
| D49 | Modern Solo 13 and 14 years. (2 mins) | £6.00 |
| D50 | Modern Solo 15 – 18 years. (2 mins) | £6.00 |
| D51 | Lyrical Modern Solo 9 and 10 years. (1 min 30) | £6.00 |
| D52 | Lyrical Modern Solo under 9 years. (1 min 30) | £6.00 |
| D53 | Lyrical Modern Solo 11 and 12 years. (2 mins) | £6.00 |
| D54 | Lyrical Modern Solo 13 and 14 years. (2 mins) | £6.00 |
| D55 | Lyrical Modern Solo 15 – 18 years. (2 mins) | £6.00 |
| D56 | Song and Dance Solo 10 years and under (2 mins 30) | £6.00 |
| D57 | Song and Dance Solo 11 and 12 years. (2 mins 30) | £6.00 |
| D58 | Song and Dance Solo 13 and 14 years. (2 mins 30) | £6.00 |
| D59 | Song and Dance Solo 15 – 18 years. (2 mins 30) | £6.00 |
| D60 | Improvisation 11 – 13 years. Music for the Improvisation classes will be set by the adjudicator and each performer will hear the music twice before dancing. |
£6.00 |
| D61 | Improvisation 14 – 18 years. As D60 | £6.00 |
| D62 | Classical Trio 10 years and under. (3 mins) | £12.00 |
| D63 | Classical Trio 14 years and under. (3 mins) | £12.00 |
| D64 | Classical Trio 18 years and under. (3 mins) | £12.00 |
| D65 | Cabaret Trio 10 years and under. (3 mins) | £12.00 |
| D66 | Cabaret Trio 14 years and under. (3 mins) | £12.00 |
| D67 | Cabaret Trio 18 years and under. (3 mins) | £12.00 |
| D68 | Street Dance Group 10 years and under. (4 mins) | £15.00 |
| D69 | Street Dance Group 14 years and under. (4 mins) | £15.00 |
| D70 | Street Dance Group 18 years and under. (4 mins) | £15.00 |
| D71 | Own Choreography solo 10 years and under. (2 mins) | £6.00 |
| D72 | Own Choreography solo 11 to 14 years. (2 mins) | £6.00 |
| D73 | Own Choreography solo 15 to 18 years. (2 mins) | £6.00 |
| D74 | Own Choreography Duet/Trio 10 years and under – performers may only dance once in this section. (2 mins 30) | £12.00 |
| D75 | Own Choreography Duet/Trio 14 years and under – performers may only dance once in this section. (2 mins 30) | £12.00 |
| D76 | Own Choreography Duet/Trio 18 years and under – performers may only dance once in this section. (2½ mins) | £12.00 |
| D77 | Novice Solo 10 years and under – performers may only dance once in this section. (2 mins) | £6.00 |
| D78 | Primary School Group – any style or theme. Maximum number of performers per group, 35. A school can enter more than one group, but children can only take part in one group. No adult participation allowed on stage during performance. (5 mins). Teachers are asked to indicate whether the group is infants or juniors or mixed, as two trophies will be awarded i.e. juniors and infants. This class will be timetabled for the afternoon of Friday 5th May. |
£15.00 |
| SPEECH & DRAMA |
Rules for Speech & Drama
| SD1 | The Age Limit is reckoned as on 31st August in the year prior to the Festival and will be strictly observed. |
| SD2 | The adjudicator’s decision is final. |
| SD3 | Time limits must be strictly adhered to but do not include an introduction to scenes. Performers who over-run will be penalised with the loss of one mark per minute or part of a minute and may not receive a mark. |
| SD4 | Coaching. No instruction, mouthing of words or gestures by a teacher, tutor or parent is allowed during a performance. This, and/or any other off-stage direction, may result in a loss of marks. |
| SD5 | Prompting. The adjudicator and steward must not be expected to prompt if words are forgotten; performers are advised to provide their own prompter who must not be their teacher; in case of difficulty, performers may ask for help from the office. |
| SD6 | Performers entering ‘Own choice’ classes must ensure that the selected pieces are of a suitable standard for the age group. Teachers and students are requested to be aware of the sensitivity of the audience regarding the content of the scenes. Language likely to cause offence must not be included. |
| SD7 | None but hand properties (eg – a fan, handkerchief, scarf etc.) are permitted. |
| SD8 | In ‘Own Choice’ classes, a script must be given to the adjudicator before performing in the class. |
| SD9 | Full stage costume must not be used, but limited items to suggest character are permitted. See Rule G8. |
| SD10 | Alterations. Performers wishing to request an alteration to their published performance time must contact the Speech and Drama Secretary a minimum of one week before the Speech and Drama classes begin. Requests may not be accepted after this time. |
| Adjudicators |
Adjudicator – Cally Foster LLAM, FSTSD
Since her first appearance in a festival at the age of five Cally has been committed to the festival movement and has pursued a career as a speech and drama specialist.
Cally was the principal of her Buckinghamshire-based drama studio for more than 20 years, combining that role with travelling extensively in the UK, Europe and internationally as an examiner for LAMDA and as an adjudicator. Cally also delivers workshops on all aspects of communication and performance.
She is an adjudicator member of the British and International Federation of Festivals, a Speech and Drama Representative on the Adjudicators Council, and is a former Chairman of the Society of Teachers of Speech and Drama.
Cally believes performing in festivals not only encourages an appreciation of the Arts but also develops the communication and presentations skills so important in today’s world. Everyone should have an enjoyable as well as a positive experience.
Adjudicator – Marcia Carr MPhil(Lon),BA(Hons),ALAM,LLCM,ALCM,FRSA
Marcia trained at Royal Holloway University of London. She trained in music, dance and drama, and currently facilitates workshops and directs shows for universities, drama schools and theatre departments internationally. She is a qualified Feldenkrais Practitioner, a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts and a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy.
She has toured internationally, winning Best Performer, Manchester Evening News and Buxton Festival and a Time Out Critics Choice.
Marcia is Co-Artistic Director of Impetuous Kinship and Co-Director of the Creative Blast Company, delivering educational packages, training young people, developing choirs, Community Companies and producing shows touring nationally and internationally in both theatrical and non-theatrical environments.
She is an Associate Artist with the National Youth Theatre of Great Britain, directing shows, developing workshops, on audition panels and leading training, an Adjudicator for The British and International Federation of Festivals, and Deputy Chief Examiner for the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art.
Adjudicator – Vivienne Redwood LLAM, MSTSD (Adj)
Vivienne has studied Speech and Drama since the age of four and has been teaching the subject since 1980. She is Head of Speech and Drama at a large independent girl’s school in Bedford. She is also the Principal of the Redford School of Speech and Drama, established in 1982, training children and adults of all ages in all aspects of the performing arts and communication. Many of her former students perform in TV, film and theatre around the world and in major West End productions, the Globe, the RSC and the National Theatre. Others are pursuing careers as teachers of Speech and Drama, Theatre Directors and Technicians.
Vivienne has produced and directed a diverse range of musical and theatrical productions and particularly enjoys writing and devising original and creative theatre with her senior students. For the past nineteen years, she has organised and directed a widely-acclaimed summer school for students aged 7 to 21, which culminates in a commissioned play written for, and performed by, the students who attend.
Vivienne is an examiner for the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art, a member of the Society of Teachers of Speech and Drama and an adjudicator of the British and International Federation of Festivals travelling extensively throughout the UK, Ireland and the Channel Islands. She is a former secretary and now a Vice-President of the Bedfordshire Festival of Music, Speech and Drama which has given her a clear understanding and insight into the work, energy and commitment that festival organisers, teachers and pupils put into making their Festivals a success.
| Verse & Poetry |
The set poems for classes SD01-SD11 can be downloaded by clicking here.
| SD00 | A ‘Welcome’ class for performers of School Year Reception and under. Performers will receive feedback but this is a non-competitive class, designed to build skills and confidence. Performers should prepare a short poem or rhyme for performance. Performers should prepare to perform alone, but if parental (or similar) presence onstage is needed, this is permitted. If guidance is required on material, please contact the Speech & Drama Secretary. | £6.00 |
| SD01 | Verse Speaking – School Year 1. Performers are invited to perform the set text: ‘I WISH I HAD A WOOKIEE’ by Ian Doescher, or any other poem on the theme of ‘FRIENDS’. Performances should be memorised. Time limit: 1 min. | £6.00 |
| SD02 | Verse Speaking – School Year 2. Performers are invited to perform the set text ‘SUNFLAKES’ by Frank Asch, or any other poem on the theme of ‘WEATHER’. Performances should be memorised. Time limit: 1 min. | £6.00 |
| SD03 | Verse Speaking – School Year 3. Performers are invited to perform the set text ‘GEOGRAPHY’ by John Kitching, or any other poem on the theme of ‘OUR WORLD’. Performances should be memorised. Time limit: 2 mins. | £6.00 |
| SD04 | Verse Speaking – School Year 4. Performers are invited to perform the set text ‘LIFE DOESN’T FRIGHTEN ME’ by Maya Angelou, or any other poem on the theme of ‘BEING ME’. Performances should be memorised. Time limit: 2 mins. | £6.00 |
| SD05 | Verse Speaking – School Year 5. Performers are invited to perform the set text ‘THE GHOST TEACHER’ by Allan Ahlberg, or any other poem on the theme of ‘SPOOKY SHENANIGANS’. Performances should be memorised. Time limit: 2 mins. | £6.00 |
| SD06 | Verse Speaking – School Year 6. Performers are invited to perform the set text ‘CHRISTMAS THANK-YOUS’ by Mick Gowar, or any other poem on the theme of ‘FAMILIES’. Performances should be memorised. Time limit: 2 mins. | £6.00 |
| SD07 | Verse Speaking – School Year 7. Performers are invited to perform the set text ‘THOSE WINTER SUNDAYS’ by Robert Hayden, or any other poem on the theme of ‘LOVE’. Performances should be memorised. Time limit: 3 mins. | £6.00 |
| SD08 | Verse Speaking – School Year 8. Performers are invited to perform the set text IN ‘MEMORY OF ANYONE UNKNOWN TO ME’ by Elizabeth Jennings, or any other poem on the theme of ‘LOSS’. Performances should be memorised. Time limit: 3 mins. | £6.00 |
| SD09 | Verse Speaking – School Years 9 and 10. Performers are invited to perform the set text WAR PHOTOGRAPHER by Carol Ann Duffy, or any other poem on the theme of CONFLICT. Performances should be memorised. Time limit: 3 mins. | £6.00 |
| SD10 | Verse Speaking – School Years 11 to 13. Performers are invited to perform the set text ‘ADULT FICTION’ by Ian McMillan, or any other poem on the theme of ‘MEMORIES’. Performances should be memorised. Time limit: 3 mins. | £6.00 |
| SD11 | Verse Speaking – Open – 18 years and over. Performers are invited to perform the set text ‘WILD GEES’E by Mary Oliver, or any other poem on the theme of ‘BEING’. Performances should be memorised. Time limit: 3 mins. | £12.00 |
| JC | The Junior Lyric Championship – for all medal winners from each of the parallel classes for Years 5 and 6 Verse Speaking. Competitors are invited to recite their medal-winning poem in this class | |
| LC | The Lyric Championship – the top four placings in each of Classes SD07, SD08 and SD09 and SD10 will be invited to perform a lyric poem or sonnet in this prestigious ‘final’ class. Competitors are to recite a poem of lyrical merit in this class. This can be the poem that they qualified with, or a new poem of their own choice. | |
| SD12 | Share a Poem – School Years 3 and 4 – a poem for 2 to 4 voices. Movement is permitted. Own choice. It is recommended that performers explore the techniques of unison as well as solo speaking in this class. Entrants will receive one group certificate per entry. Medals will be awarded to the winners of the class. Time limit: 3 mins. | £12.00 |
| SD13 | Share a Poem – School Years 5 and 6. As SD12. | £12.00 |
| SD14 | Share a Poem – School Years 7 and 8. As SD12. Time limit: 4 mins. | £12.00 |
| SD15 | Share a Poem – School Years 9 to 13. As SD12. | £12.00 |
| SD16 | Sonnet Class – School Years 10 to 13. Any sonnet of the performer’s choice. | £6.00 |
| SD17 | Sonnet Class – Open – 18 years and over. As SD16. | £12.00 |
| SD18 | Verse Speaking to a Musical Backing – School Years 6 and under. Any Own Choice poem or extract from a poem spoken with a recorded musical backing. Performers will be required to provide their own playback equipment and are advised to ensure copyright laws are observed with regard to the musical backing. Competitors should be aware that the Festival cannot supply a keyboard or piano in situ. Minimal movement and gesture permitted. Time limit: 3 mins. | £6.00 |
| SD19 | Verse Speaking to a Musical Backing – School Years 7 to 9. As SD18 | £6.00 |
| SD20 | Verse Speaking to a Musical Backing – School Years 10 to 13. As SD18 | £6.00 |
| SD21 | Slam Poetry – School Years 7 – 9. Poems can be about any subject but must be the original work of the performer. No props may be used when performing the poem. No musical accompaniment or musical instruments may be used when performing, but the poet is allowed to sing. clap, hum, or make noise with the mouth or other body parts. Poets may perform on their own or in groups but the entry is classified as one performance. Composition and performance are considered holistically by the adjudicator: poems need not be submitted in advance of the class. Time limit 3 mins. | £6.00 |
| SD22 | Slam Poetry – School Years 10 – 13. As SD21 | £6.00 |
| SD23 | Slam Poetry – Open. As SD21 | £12.00 |
| Reading at Sight |
| SD24 | Reading at Sight – School Year 4 and under. The performer will be given time to read through the passage, set by the adjudicator, before his/her performance. | £6.00 |
| SD25 | Reading at Sight – School Year 5. As SD24 | £6.00 |
| SD26 | Reading at Sight – School Year 6. As SD24 | £6.00 |
| SD27 | Reading at Sight – School Years 7 and 8. As SD24 | £6.00 |
| SD28 | Reading at Sight – School Years 9 and 10. As SD24 | £6.00 |
| SD29 | Reading at Sight – School Years 11 to 13. As SD24 | £6.00 |
| SD30 | Dramatic Sight Reading – School Years 7 to 9. As SD24 | £6.00 |
| SD31 | Dramatic Sight Reading – School Years 10 to 13. As SD24 | £6.00 |
| Prose Speaking |
| SD32 | Prose Speaking – School Years 4 and under – a memorised extract from any book of the performer’s own choice. Performers must provide a copy of the extract for the adjudicator. Time limit: 2 mins | £6.00 |
| SD33 | Prose Speaking – School Years 5 and 6. As SD32 | £6.00 |
| SD34 | Prose Speaking – School Years 7 and 8. As SD32 | £6.00 |
| SD35 | Prose Speaking – School Years 9 to 13. As SD32 | £6.00 |
| Prose Reading |
In all prepared Prose Reading classes performers must provide a copy of the selected reading for the adjudicator. *Performers are reminded that these are reading classes, not a memorised test. Extracts should include both narrative and dialogue.
| SD36 | Prose Reading – School Year 4 and under. A prepared reading from any book of fiction of the performer’s own choice on the theme of ‘SCARY, SILLY OR SNUGGLY’. Time limit: 2 mins. | £6.00 |
| SD37 | Prose Reading – School Years 5 and 6. A prepared reading from any book of fiction of the performer’s own choice on the theme of ‘HOPES, DREAMS AND NIGHTMARES’. Time limit: 2 mins. | £6.00 |
| SD38 | Prose Reading – School Years 7 and 8. A prepared reading from any book of fiction of the performer’s own choice on the theme of ‘IDENTITY’. Time limit: 2 mins. | £6.00 |
| SD39 | Prose Reading – School Years 9 to 13. A prepared reading from any book of the performers own choice on the theme of ‘TIME PASSING’, preceded by a recommendation and personal appreciation which must be spoken freely and without notes. See asterisk above. Time limit: 3 mins. | £6.00 |
| SD40 | Prose Reading – Open – 18 years and over. A prepared reading from any book of the performers own choice, preceded by a recommendation and personal appreciation which must be spoken freely and without notes. See asterisk above. Time limit: 3 mins. | £12.00 |
| SD41 | Reading to an Audience – Open. Open to novice speakers of any age for whom English is an acquired language to give an opportunity to gain confidence and experience at speaking in public. Performers are asked to announce the title and author of their selection and to bring a copy for the adjudicator. Test piece: Any poem or prose extract of the speaker’s own choice. Time limit: 2 mins. | Free of charge |
| SD42 | Prepared Reading from the Bible – School Years 7 to 13 – Own choice. Authorised Version only because of the challenge of the vivid and historical language. Performers are reminded that this is a reading class, not an acting class, and are asked to perform accordingly. Time limit: 2 mins. | £6.00 |
| SD43 | Prepared Reading from the Bible – Open – 18 years and over. As SD42. Time limit: 3 mins. | £12.00 |
| SD44 | Prepared Reading from a Holy Book – School Year 6 and under. The reading may be from a Holy Book from any faith, to be read in English. This can include modern versions of the English Bible. Performers are reminded that this is a reading and not an acting class and are asked to perform accordingly. Time limit: 2 mins. | £6.00 |
| SD45 | Prepared Reading from a Holy Book – School Years 7 to 13. AS SD44. Time limit: 3 mins. | £6.00 |
| SD46 | Recital on a Theme – School Years 6 and under. The performer will present at least one prose selection and one verse reading supported by an introduction to the theme, linking of the selections and a conclusion. Dramatic extracts will be accepted if time allows. Introduction, links and conclusion must be spoken freely and without notes. Time limit: 5 mins. | £6.00 |
| SD47 | Recital on a Theme – School Years 7 to 13. As SD46. Time limit: 5 mins. | £6.00 |
| SD48 | Duet Recital – School Years 7 to 13. The performers will present at least one prose selection and one verse reading supported by an introduction to the theme, linking of the selections and a conclusion. Dramatic extracts will be accepted if time allows. Introduction, links and conclusion must be spoken freely and without notes. Time limit: 5 mins. | £9.00 |
| Acting |
Attention is drawn to the revised time limits which must be strictly adhered to. Performers who overrun may be penalised. See rules G6 and SD3. In Duologue classes a younger performer may partner an older one provided he/she does not enter any other age group. Performers may enter in only one duologue class. Multiple entries including one performer will not be processed. Performers are requested to be aware of the sensitivity of the audience regarding the content of the scenes. Language likely to cause offence must not be included. Please refer to Rule SD6.
| SD49 | Duologue – School Years 4 and under. A scene taken from a published play or novel, or an Examination Board syllabus. Shakespeare scenes are acceptable. Television sketches and improvised scripts are not allowed. Own choice. Time limit: 5 mins. | £9.00 |
| SD50 | Duologue – School Years 5 and 6. As SD41. Time limit: 5 mins. | £9.00 |
| SD51 | Duologue – School Years 7 and 8. As SD41. Time limit: 6 mins. | £9.00 |
| SD52 | Duologue – School Years 9 and 10. As SD41. Time limit: 6 mins. | £9.00 |
| SD53 | Duologue – School Years 11 to 13. As SD41. Time limit: 7 mins. | £9.00 |
| SD54 | Solo Acting – School Year 4 and under. A scene taken from a published play or novel, or an Examination Board syllabus. Shakespeare scenes are acceptable. Television sketches, monologues and improvised scripts are not allowed. Own choice. Time limit: 4 mins. | £6.00 |
| SD55 | Solo Acting – School Years 5 and 6. As SD54. | £6.00 |
| SD56 | Solo Acting – School Years 7 and 8. As SD54. Time limit: 5 mins. | £6.00 |
| SD57 | Solo Acting – School Years 9 and 10. As SD54 but Shakespeare scenes are not permitted. Time limit: 5 mins. | £6.00 |
| SD58 | Solo Acting – School Years 11 to 13. As SD54 but Shakespeare scenes are not permitted. Time limit: 6 mins. | £6.00 |
| SD59 | Solo Acting – Open – 19 years and over. As SD47 but Shakespeare scenes are not permitted. Time limit: 6 mins. | £12.00 |
| SD60 | Masterclass – School Years 6 to 9. Performers should be prepared to share a short audition speech in this session. | £6.00 |
| SD61 | Masterclass – School Years 10 to 13. As SD60 | |
| SD62 | Shakespeare Scene by one person – School Years 6 and under. Own choice. Time limit: 3 mins. | £6.00 |
| SD63 | Shakespeare Scene by one person – School Years 7 to 10. Own choice. Time limit: 4 mins. | £6.00 |
| SD64 | Shakespeare Scene by one person – School Years 11 to 13. Own choice. Time limit: 5 mins. | £6.00 |
| SD65 | Shakespeare Scene by one person – Open – 18 years and over. Own choice. Time limit: 6 mins. | £12.00 |
| Musical Theatre |
| SD66 | Scene from Musical Theatre played by one person – School Years 5 and under. Own choice. An improvised scene of the performer’s own devising creating a situation and character which will reflect the original mood and intention of the song. There should be a balance between time given to improvised dialogue and time given to acting through song. For copyright reasons the use of the original storyline and character is strictly prohibited. Performers must provide their own accompaniment and playback and should be aware that the Festival cannot supply a keyboard or piano in situ. It is the responsibility of the performer to ensure that copyright laws are observed. Time limit: 4 mins. | £6.00 |
| SD67 | Scene from Musical Theatre played by one person – School Years 6, 7 and 8. As SD66 | £6.00 |
| SD68 | Scene from Musical Theatre played by one person – School Years 9 to 13. As SD66. Time limit: 5mins. | £6.00 |
| SD69 | Scene from Musical Theatre played by one person – Open – 18 years and over. As SD68 | £12.00 |
| SD70 | Share-a-Scene from Musical Theatre – School Years 5 and under. A scene for 2 – 4 performers. Own choice. An improvised scene of the performer’s own devising creating a situation and character which will reflect the original mood and intention of the song. There should be a balance between time given to improvised dialogue and time given to acting through song. For copyright reasons the use of the original storyline and character is strictly prohibited. Performers must provide their own accompaniment and playback and should be aware that the Festival cannot supply a keyboard or piano in situ. It is the responsibility of the performers to ensure that copyright laws are observed. Entrants will receive one group certificate per entry. Medals will be awarded to the winners of the class. Time limit: 5 mins. | £9.00 |
| SD71 | Share-a-Scene from Musical Theatre – School Years 6, 7 and 8. As SD70. | £6.00 |
| SD72 | Share-a-Scene from Musical Theatre – School Years 9 to 13. As SD70. Time limit: 7 mins. | £6.00 |
| SD73 | Share-a-Scene from Musical Theatre – Open – 18 years and over. As SD70. Time limit: 8 mins. | £12.00 |
| Mime |
| SD74 | Solo Mime – School Year 6 and under. Own choice. Title to be chosen and announced by the performer. The use of music is permitted. The use of stage or hand properties is not allowed. Time limit: 4 mins. | £6.00 |
| SD75 | Solo Mime – School Years 7 to 13. As SD74 | £6.00 |
| SD76 | Duo Mime – School Years 6 and under. As SD74 | £9.00 |
| SD77 | Duo Mime – School Years 7 to 13. As SD74 | £9.00 |
| Communications |
| SD78 | Informative Speech – School Years 6 and under. A talk about an object of special significance. The performer must engage with his/her object during the talk. Time limit: 4 mins. | £6.00 |
| SD79 | Public Speaking – Individual – School Years 7, 8 and 9. A prepared speech on any subject of the speaker’s own choice. Performers should be aware that the Festival does not provide technological elements or support. Any technical requirements must be supplied and operated by the performer and should not take a disproportionate amount of time to set up. Time limit: 5 mins. | £6.00 |
| SD80 | Public Speaking – Individual – School Years 10 to 13. As SD79 | £6.00 |
| SD81 | Business Pitch – School Year 6 and under. Performers should prepare and deliver a short business pitch centre based on a toy of their choice. Credit will be given for use of facts and figures, basic business language, interaction with the chosen object, and charismatic delivery. Time limit: 2 mins. | £6.00 |
| SD82 | Business Pitch – School Years 7 to 9. As SD81, but centring on a domestic product of their choice. Time limit: 3 mins. |
£6.00 |
| SD83 | Business Pitch – School Years 10 to 13. As SD81 | £6.00 |
| SD84 | Public Speaking – Team of three, School Years 7, 8 and 9. A team of three: a Chairman to introduce the Speaker, a Speaker to give a prepared speech on any subject of the Team’s own choice, and a Proposer of a vote of thanks. Overall time limit: 10 mins. | £12.00 |
| SD85 | Public Speaking – Team of three, School Years 10 to 13. As SD84 | £12.00 |
| Devised & Improvised Work |
| SD86 | Solo Devised Scene – School Years 6 and under. Performers can devise the scene based on any stimulus of their choice. Time limit: 2 mins. | £6.00 |
| SD87 | Solo Devised Scene – School Years 7 to 9. As SD86 Time limit: 3 mins. | £6.00 |
| SD88 | Solo Devised Scene – School Years 10 to 13. As SD86 Time limit: 4 mins. | £6.00 |
| SD89 | Duo Devised Scene – School Years 6 and under. As SD86 Time limit: 3 mins. | £9.00 |
| SD90 | Duo Devised Scene -School Years 7 to 9. As SD86 Time limit: 4 mins. | £9.00 |
| SD91 | Duo Devised Scene -School Years 10 to 13. As SD86 Time limit: 5 mins. | £9.00 |
| SD92 | Solo Improvisation – School Years 6 and under. Performers will be given a stimulus 5 minutes ahead of their performance. Time limit: 2 mins. | £6.00 |
| SD93 | Solo Improvisation – School Years 7 to 9. As SD92 Time limit: 3 mins. | £6.00 |
| SD94 | Solo Improvisation – School Years 10 to 13. As SD92 Time limit: 4 mins. | £6.00 |
| Group Work |
| SD95 | Choral Speaking – Novice – School years 3 and under. Own choice. Group size between 5 and 35 performers. Credit will be given for the exploration of varying dynamics within the delivery. Time limit: 4 mins. | £15.00 |
| SD96 | Choral Speaking – Junior – School years 6 and under. As SD 95 | £15.00 |
| SD97 | Choral Speaking – Senior – School years 7 to 13. As SD 95 | £15.00 |
| SD98 | Junior Devised Drama – School Year 6 and under. A performance by a group of between 5 and 35 performers and based on a stimulus of their own choice. Please note this is not just an improvisation class. The programme should be linked together smoothly and should include at least 3 of the following skills Solo Verse, Prose, Choral Speaking, Live Music using instruments, Recorded Music, Mime, Dance and Movement. Time limit: 10 mins. | £15.00 |
| SD99 | Intermediate Devised Drama – School Years 7, 8 and 9. As SD98. Time limit: 12 mins. | £15.00 |
| SD100 | Senior Devised Drama – School Years 10 to 13. As SD98. Time limit: 15 mins. | £15.00 |
| SD101 | Junior Dramatic Drama – School Year 6 and under. Own choice of text. Group size between 3 and 35 performers. Time limit 10 mins. | £15.00 |
| SD102 | Intermediate Dramatic Drama -School Years 7, 8 and 9. As SD101. Time limit: 12 mins. | £15.00 |
| SD103 | Senior Dramatic Drama -School Years 10 to 13. As SD101. Time limit: 15 mins. | £15.00 |
| SD104 | Junior Group Mime – School Years 6 and under. Own choice of story / plot. Group size between 5 and 35 performers. Recorded or live music / sound effects can be used. Time limit: 5 mins. | £15.00 |
| Accessible Classes |
| SD105 | Theme – Open Age Group – 3 to 35 performers. This class is restricted to children and adults with Special Educational Needs. The group consisting of between 3 and 35 performers – and including support assistants – will present a programme based on a stimulus of their own choice and which includes a variety of skills linked together smoothly. Time limit: 15 mins. | £15.00 |
| SD106 | Individual or Duo Performance of Performer’s Own Choice. This class is restricted to children and adults with Special Educational Needs. A dramatic performance piece of the performer’s own choice. In the case of a large number of entries, the Festival reserves the right to split classes according to age or dramatic discipline. Time limit: 3 mins. | £6.00 |
| Original Work Classes – Own Composition |
Own Composition classes will be adjudicated digitally and attendance at the Festival is not required. Competitors will each receive a digital feedback sheet to their registered email address and the results will be posted on the CFPA social media channels during the Festival. Medals will not be awarded as standard for these classes: but if a placed competitor wishes to purchase the relevant medal at the Festival Office, they may do so on presentation of the appropriate feedback sheet.
Own Composition entries must be received on-line by 1st February 2023 and uploaded either as a Word or pdf file to CFPA’s website, typed, but must not include the writer’s name, by 1st April 2023. Trophies will be awarded at the Lyric Championship event.
POETRY: Not to exceed 3 minutes reading time each. Limit: 3 poems per person. The fee per poem is shown here.
| SD107 | Poetry Own Composition – School Year 6 and under. | £6.00 |
| SD108 | Poetry Own Composition – School Years 7 to 11. | £6.00 |
| SD109 | Poetry Own Composition – Open. | £12.00 |
STORYWRITING: Limit: 3 stories per person. The fee per story is shown here.
| SD110 | Original Storywriting – School Year 6 and under. Maximum 500 words | £6.00 |
| SD111 | Original Storywriting – School Years 7 to 11. Maximum 750 words. | £6.00 |
| SD112 | Original Storywriting – Open. Maximum 1000 words. | £12.00 |
| Digital Classes |
Film and TikTok classes: as Own Composition (see above).
Entries must be received on-line by 1st February 2023 and submitted to CFPA by 1st April 2023.
| SD113 | Short Film – School Year 3 and under. To be based on a Nursery Rhyme & Fairytale. The film will be adjudicated based on all the composite elements of storytelling, filming and editing inherent in the film. Acting, performing, costume, lighting, sound will be credited on their appropriateness for the subject. The film can be live action, stop motion, cartoon… absolutely anything the film maker chooses. It can adhere to or deviate from the original – your decision. There are no limits, other than the time limit of 1 minute – let your imagination fly. The entry fee is per film and can be created by any number of people within the age range. | £6.00 |
| SD114 | Short Film – School Years 4 to 6. To be based on a scene from a book, poem or piece of art. As SD113. Time limit: 1 min 30 secs. | £6.00 |
| SD115 | Short Film – School Years 7 to 9. An original advert for a product of your choice. As SD113. Time limit: 2 mins. | £6.00 |
| SD116 | Short Film – School Years 10 to 13. A movie trailer for an existing or imaginary film. As SD113. Time limit: 2 mins 30 secs. | £6.00 |
| SD117 | TikTok – Years 6 to 8. Solo, Duo or Group. Create a TikTok routine from a poem or section of a poem of your choice. Credit will be given from the way in which moves reflect the meaning of the words. Time limit: 1 min. | £9.00 |
| SD118 | TikTok – Years 9 to 13. As SD117, time limit: 2 mins | £9.00 |
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THE VALERIE WALSH AWARD
Any performer who completes classes in all three disciplines will automatically be entered for the Valerie Walsh Award. The winner will be chosen from those performers who achieve the highest marks across the three disciplines. Only solo and duet classes will qualify. The Award of £100 will be presented by Valerie to the winner at the Festival’s next AGM.
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COPYRIGHT RULES
Music Publishers Association (MPA)
We are pleased to announce that we are now a signatory to the MPA Code of Fair Practice (revised for 2012) agreed between composers, publishers and users of printed music. As such, a specific permission has been granted regarding photocopying as follows:
Important: This permission only applies to the adjudicator’s copy and all other copies used for the performance (e.g. by the performer and/or accompanist), including any copy made by electronic means, must be legally purchased originals.
Adjudicator’s copy: a person performing a work at the Festival in front of an adjudicator may make one copy for the adjudicator provided that the performer has an original copy and that the copy made is retained and destroyed by the adjudicator immediately after the performance. The copy must be marked with the following ‘Adjudicator’s copy – destroy after use’.
This only applies to the music publishers who have agreed to adhere to the standards set out in the MPA’s Code of Fair Practice – see full list: http//.mpaonline.org.uk/associated_companies)
Author’s Licensing and Collecting Society (ALCS)
Our group licence agreement with ALCS allows for permission for:
Poetry, Prose and Solo Monologue Performances as follows:
- Speech and Drama Festivals to include spoken performances of poetry and prose to a limit of 10 minutes duration.
- Solo Dramatic items may also qualify for copyright indemnity provided that the item is announced with title and author at the time of the performance and the performer must not change the words or gender of the character.
Important: For duologues and all other group dramatic works (including Musical Theatre), in the absence of any other licensing arrangement, the onus on gaining copyright permission, and paying any royalty fees due, rests with the performer.
Performing Rights Society (PRS)
Our group licence agreement with PRS allows permission for Instrument and Vocal classes to:
- Perform music compositions
- Play recorded music as an accompaniment/backing track if required.
and for Songs from the Shows or Song and Dance classes to perform excerpts from musical plays provided that:
- the excerpt does not exceed 25 minutes duration,
- it is not a complete act of the musical play,
- it does not constitute a” potted version” of the musical play,
- it is performed without any change to either music or lyrics and using only the published or authorised musical arrangements,
- there is no use made of any form of scenery, costume, choreography, staging, character representation or special lighting which gives a visual impression or other portrayal of the writer’s original conception of the work from which the excerpt is taken.
PPL – Music licensing for recorded music played in public
We have obtained the necessary licences from PPL to play recorded music at our Festival as an accompaniment / backing track if required.
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General Rules: Please read these carefully before entering
| G1. | The Competition shall be known as the ‘Cheltenham Festival of Performing Arts’. |
| G2. | There is no geographical restriction for any of the Performers. See special rules for Keith Nutland competition. |
| G3. | No persons gaining all or a principal part of their livelihood by music, speech, drama or dancing may compete, except in the classes marked ‘Open’ (This rule does not apply to conductors of choirs). The Committee reserves the right to refuse entry to an Open class where the performer’s experience may be insufficient. |
| G4. | The management of these competitions and all matters relating thereto shall be in the hands of a Chairman and a Committee with a Secretary and Treasurer, whose decision on any matter shall be final. |
| G5. | In the event of there not being a sufficient number of entries in any class, or in the opinion of the judges the performers do not show sufficient merit, the Committee reserves to itself the power to withdraw all or any of the awards. |
| G6. | Time limits must be strictly adhered to and performers who over-run will be penalised with the loss of one mark per minute or part of a minute. |
| G7. | In the event of there being fewer than 5 entries in a class, the committee reserves the right to cancel that class. In that event, a refund of the fees will be given. |
| G8. | Performers should ensure that they are dressed appropriately. The well-groomed personal appearance of performers will be taken into account when adjudicating performance and awarding marks. |
| G9. | Certificates with the Adjudicator’s comments will be available 30 minutes after each class. Certificates will not be given to any adult, group or open classes. For two months after the end of the Festival, certificates not collected during the Festival may be requested from the relevant Section Secretary and will be sent by post on receipt of a payment of £4.00. |
| G10 | (a) No trophy or challenge cup will be awarded under 85 marks (b) In the event of more than one person being awarded a Challenge Cup, they shall hold it for a proportionate time in alphabetical order of surname. (c) Medals will be awarded on the following basis: Where there are 5 or fewer in a class only a gold medal will be awarded. In a class of fewer than 10 participants a gold and silver medal will be awarded. In classes of 10 or more, a gold, a silver and a bronze medal will be awarded. No medals will be awarded in any ‘Open’ class. (d) Cup winners can purchase a gold medal from the Festival Office. |
| G11. | All entries must be entered online or be sent to the respective Section Secretary on or before 1st February. Entries received after the closing date will only be accepted at the discretion of the Section Secretary. |
| G12. | In the case of numerous entries the committee reserves the right to divide any class which may be considered too large for adjudication. |
| G13. | Age limit is reckoned as on 31st August in the year preceding the Festival and this will be strictly observed. All ages under 18 years must be on the entry form. Entries without the performer’s age (under 18 years) will not be accepted. |
| G14. | The Committee regrets that fees cannot be refunded under any circumstances other than rule G7. |
| G15. | Performers are urged to ensure they have entered the correct class on the entry form as transferring classes cannot be permitted after the commencement of the Festival. |
| G16. | The Festival is bound by copyright law and cannot allow any type of photography, sound or video recording during a performance or adjudication. |
| G17. | Performers in ‘Own Choice’ Classes may not offer items with which they have already won prizes in past years at the Cheltenham Festival of Performing Arts. |
| G18. | Performers may not enter more than once in the same class unless specified, nor may they enter the same piece in more than one class. |
| G19. | Performers should perform in the order given in the programme unless involved elsewhere, in which case they must notify the steward. Those not answering to their names when called will be recalled at the end of the class, however the adjudication will not be delayed. |
ACCOMPANISTS
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Entrants are advised that the Festival no longer offers official accompanists. It is the responsibility of performers who require an accompanist to make their own arrangements in good time before the Festival. Performers must expect to pay their accompanist a fee for both the Festival performance and any rehearsals. Accompanists’ rates are not set by the Festival.
The following accompanists have agreed to their names being published in this syllabus.
| Fiona Brown | 01242 576069 | fmbsoundmatters@gmail.com |
| Sara Harris | 07906 339835 | sejet@hotmail.co.uk (vocal, strings, wind) |
| Helen Marcus | 01452 855890 | helenmarcus@blueyonder.co.uk (wind) |
| Michael Castle | 07896 624715 | mccastlemusic@gmail.com |
| James Quinn | 07732 179221 | jamesquinnpiano@gmail.com |
CHILD PROTECTION POLICY STATEMENT
Cheltenham Festival of Performing Arts believes that no child or young person should ever experience abuse of any kind. We have a responsibility to promote the welfare of all children and young people and practise in a way that protects them.
CFPA recognises that the welfare of children is paramount and that, regardless of age, disability, gender, racial heritage, religious belief, sexual orientation or identity, they have the right to equal protection from all types of harm or abuse. Furthermore, CFPA believes that some children and young people are additionally vulnerable because of their level of dependency or their communication needs and that working in partnership with their parents, teachers and carers is essential in guaranteeing their welfare.
CFPA will seek to keep children and young people safe by practising a range of measures to ensure a safe environment at its Festivals for children and young people. These measures are fully set out in CFPA’s Child Protection Policy which can be seen in full on CFPA’s website.
CREATING A SAFE FESTIVAL
The Cheltenham Festival of Performing Arts implements the following procedures to create a safe Festival for everyone:
- A designated Festival Safeguarding Officer (FSO) is appointed to oversee all aspects of safeguarding.
The Safeguarding Officer is Brian Harding, tel: 07850 153183. - Best practice advice, support and training is given to all Festival staff and volunteers, including clear reporting procedures for anyone with a concern about a child.
- Appropriate recruitment and/or induction procedures are applied for all Festival staff and volunteers.
- All Festival stewards wear an official identification lanyard and teachers/parents/guardians/carers are asked to report all incidents of any nature to anyone wearing a lanyard. All reported incidents will be handled in accordance with child protection best practice advice and, if appropriate, in a quiet area/room where concerns can be expressed in private.
- For the duration of the Festival all teachers/parents/guardians/carers are responsible for the continuous care and supervision of their own children/pupils/vulnerable adults. If they are unable to attend personally, they must delegate their responsibilities to an identified adult and ensure that their children/pupils/vulnerable adults are aware of the identity and name of the person responsible for their care. This includes supervision throughout all Festival venues, performance, rehearsal and changing areas.
- No unauthorised photography or video, digital or tape recording of any performance is allowed. If parents/guardians/carers do not wish photos or video recording to be taken of any child in their care, then the responsible adult attending should ensure that their child/pupil is not included in officially authorised photos.
- If any child or vulnerable adult has a specific need in order to take part in the Festival, we ask the responsible teacher/parent/guardian/carer to contact the Festival prior to arrival. The Festival will seek, wherever possible, to meet the identified need, but must be informed beforehand in order to prepare support – or to advise that help cannot be provided on this occasion.
- By completing and submitting the entry form all parents / guardians / carers and teachers of entrants under 18 (or vulnerable adults of any age) confirm that they give (or have obtained, or will obtain) all necessary consents for the entrants to take part in the Festival.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES POLICY STATEMENT
The Cheltenham Festival of Performing Arts is committed to provide equal opportunity for everyone to participate in its affairs and contribute to its objectives. The Festival does not discriminate on the grounds of age, disability, gender, marital status, race, nationality, ethnicity, religion or belief, sexual orientation, or any other unlawful reason.
This commitment extends to every aspect of the Festival’s operation and applies to all performers, volunteers, sponsors, and suppliers.
The principles of non-discrimination and equal opportunities also apply to the way in which the Festival treats visitors and members of the public.
CPA’s Equal Opportunities Policy can be found on our website and a copy can be requested, either by email, or by sending a stamped and addressed envelope to the Hon. Secretary.
PRIVACY STATEMENT
The Cheltenham Festival of Performing Arts (CFPA) needs to collect and use certain information about individuals in order to run the Festival successfully. To protect individuals’ privacy CFPA ensures that personal information is treated lawfully and correctly. CFPA complies fully with current data protection legislation (General Data Protection Regulations – May 2018).
Data collected is processed fairly and lawfully; is used only for specific and lawful purposes; is accurate, adequate, relevant and not excessive; is kept for no longer than is necessary; is collected and processed in accordance with the rights of individuals; is kept secure, and is not transferred to countries that do not offer adequate data protection.
The only personal data that CFPA publishes in the Festival programme and on its website are the names of Festival performers (and the contact details of CFPA trustees and officers). All other personal data is kept secure. Personal data will not be given to any third party without the prior consent of the individual (or their parent, guardian, or teacher, in the case of a child), but will be disclosed to law enforcement agencies if requested. All Festival personnel are made aware of their duties and responsibilities in accordance with the General Data Protection Regulations.
CFPA’s Data Protection Policy can be found on our website and a copy can be requested, either by email, or by sending a stamped and addressed envelope to the Hon. Secretary.
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ACCESSIBILITY
The ground floor of the Town Hall is accessible from street level without encountering any steps by using the ramps. The entrance on the right-hand side has automatic doors. There is an induction loop system on the ground floor of the Town Hall and accessible toilets at the rear of the main hall. The Town Hall has a lift to assist performers on to the stage if required.
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Friends of the Festival
Become a Friend of the Festival for 2023 and get free spectator entry to all Festival classes and a free souvenir programme.
This year we are asking for a minimum donation of £30, which will cover the cost of your spectator’s ticket and a souvenir programme which you will be able to collect from the Festival desk at the Town Hall.
Please download and complete the Friends’ form.
Don’t Hesitate to Donate!
Your donations are part of keeping the Festival running from year to year. It is surprising how much it costs to stage this 12-day event, from professional adjudication to the certificates and medals and many more ‘behind the scenes’ expenses – and unfortunately we don’t always break even!
If you have a few minutes we would be extremely grateful for any donation you would like to give to help secure the future of the Festival.
There are several ways you can donate:
Internet Banking to Set up a Standing Order or for a Single Donation.
Give as much or as little as you want each month, or as a one-off donation.
Account Name: The Cheltenham Festival of Performing Arts
Account Number: 76919363
Sort Code: 30-98-97
Send a Cheque or Postal Order in the post.
If you would prefer to send a donation in the post, please send cheques or postal orders made out to Cheltenham Festival of Performing Arts to:
The Treasurer, 5, Charlecote Corner, Bishops Cleeve, Cheltenham, GL52 8HG (Do not send cash in the post.)
Leave us a legacy in your Will
Legacy gifts can provide important support to the Festival. We suggest that you discuss your intentions with your solicitor who can advise on the best way to leave a gift.