Welcome to the 15th annual Black Swamp showcase competition!
Greetings to all percussionists in the United States, and a warm welcome to the 2024 Black Swamp Solo & Ensemble Showcase – an online celebration of percussion and musical excellence! We are thrilled to invite high school and college students from across the nation to join us in this online percussion competition.
This year, the event has undergone a name change to the Black Swamp Solo & Ensemble Showcase, reflecting our commitment to excellence and the evolving landscape of percussion performance.
Here's everything you need to know:
Divisions and Categories
Ensemble Division
Open to high schools within the United States, the Ensemble Division welcomes small ensembles (2-7 performers) and large ensembles (8+ performers). Directors can conduct, but not perform, and entries are limited to one ensemble per school.
The deadline for ensemble submissions is April 29th, 2024.
Multi-Percussion Solo Division
For college students in the United States, the Multi-Percussion Solo Division requires a selected piece performed without accompaniment. The work may include non-pitched instruments and keyboard instruments. Only one entry per Division is eligible. (Multi-Percussion or Snare Drum for College participants). The performance video needs to reflect a complete (and unedited) performance of the selected piece and should be performed between February 5th and May 13th, 2024.
The deadline for solo submissions is May 13th, 2024.
Snare Drum Solo Division
Open to both high school and college students, the Snare Drum Solo Division features solo performances without accompaniment. Tape electronics are allowed. Only one entry per Division is eligible. (Multi-Percussion or Snare Drum for College participants). The performance video needs to reflect a complete (and unedited) performance of the selected piece and should be performed between February 5th and May 13th, 2024.
The deadline for solo submissions is May 13th, 2024.
2024 Guest Judges
This year's showcase will feature guest judges who are highly respected in the percussion community. The guest judges will bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the showcase.
Ensemble Division
Multi-Percussion Solo Division
Snare Drum Solo Division
Rules and Guidelines
To ensure a smooth and fair competition, participants must adhere to the entry requirements. Submissions, whether for ensemble or solo performances, must be uploaded to YouTube as public or unlisted videos. The entry form must be completed, including the link to the video, and entry fees must be submitted by check or credit card by the specified deadline.
How the Percussion Competition is Graded
Our adjudication grading system, similar to Rubric Evaluation, ensures fairness and transparency. Judges' scores will be averaged for a final score, and feedback will be provided to all participants after the results are calculated. While video creativity won't influence placements, audio/video quality certainly will, so ensure clear and audible recordings for fair judgment.
Prizes and Recognition
Participants in the Black Swamp Solo & Ensemble Showcase have the opportunity to win exciting prizes, including Black Swamp snare drums, tambourines, triangles, and accessories. Each division will have a 1st and 2nd place winner, and Black Swamp is proud to donate over $4000 in prizes to this event.
How to Participate in the Showcase
1. Choose a division: Select from various divisions, including large and small high school ensembles, high school snare drum solo, college multi-percussion, and college snare drum solo.
2. Fill out the ensemble entry form: Complete the form on our website to officially enter the Black Swamp Solo & Ensemble Showcase.
3. Meet the deadline: Ensure your ensemble entry form is submitted by April 29th for the ensemble division and May 13th for solo divisions to guarantee your participation.
Why Participate in a Percussion Competition?
Show And Tell: Showcase your passion for percussion through a live performance, providing a significant addition to your performance portfolio. This platform is an ideal opportunity to elevate your musical prowess and share your dedication to percussion.
Receive Feedback: Every division entry receives a score and feedback from a panel of renowned guest judges. This valuable insight helps you and your ensemble grow, highlighting strengths and offering inspiration for future performances.
Win Prizes: With over $4000 in Black Swamp percussion instrument prizes, the opportunity to secure 1st or 2nd place in your division is an exciting incentive.
Need Some Inspiration?
View previous showcase winners at the links below:
The 2024 Black Swamp Solo & Ensemble Showcase promises to be an unforgettable event, uniting talented percussionists from coast to coast. From high school ensembles to solo snare drum performances, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Our distinguished lineup of guest judges is eager to provide insightful feedback and bring a unique perspective to the showcase.
At Black Swamp Percussion, we are committed to promoting and supporting the percussion community. This showcase stands as a testament to the hard work and dedication of all involved.
Stay up to date on the latest news and developments by following us on social media. We look forward to receiving your submissions for the 2024 Black Swamp Solo & Ensemble Showcase!