Large Group Festival Classification Information

*PLEASE READ ALL materials contained within this page.*

The information contained within this page is to aid in Large Group Classification in the Senior Division Ensemble Categories.

Those categories are as follows:

Choral: SATB, SA, SSA, TB, TTB, & Show Choir

Instrumental: Band, Wind Ensemble, String Orchestra, Full Orchestra

Before we get into the how and why of our classification system lets first start by quoting the Senior Division guidelines. These guidelines can be found on pages 6-7 of the Festival Commission For Performance Assessment Events Manual and reads as follows:

"Senior Division. The classification of bands, choirs, and orchestras in the senior division is determined by the selection of one composition from the appropriate list, which will be performed by the ensemble as part of the assessment event. The required selection must be performed in its entirety or as listed.

The director must provide the name of the composition, the grade level, and composer to the district assessment event manager. Other compositions performed as part of the assessment event appearance do not affect the required list. Ensembles not performing a selection from the KMEA required list will not receive ratings and will participate for 'comments only'".

Okay now that have you have the official guidelines, let's go through the two main processes for your classification. You will find three major steps. 1. Selecting literature from the "KMEA Required List" and 2. Filling out the Correct Classification Forms 3. Deadline!

1. Selecting Literature. "KMEA Required List".....WHAT LIST?

As you read above there is a " KMEA required list" to be used for each division for its classification purposes. You must perform a selection from this list in order to receive KMEA ratings. Here's the where and how to obtain "the list".

Listings to be used for classification purposes: Before you click on the links below please continue reading this page thoroughly

Band: KMEA Dixie Classic List

Choir: KMEA Required Choral List (Adobe .PDF Format. Simply Click the Link)

Orchestra: KMEA Dixie Classic List

How Do I Use the Dixie Classic List?
(This list is for Band and Orchestra)

Here are some easy to follow steps that will take you through the registration process to use the Dixie Classic. Click on this link to open http://www.dixieclassic.com in a new browser window. Thus you will be able to go between browser screens and follow these simple steps.

1. Go to http://www.dixieclassic.com

2. On the Menu Bar(far right side) Click on "Selected Music"

3. You should now be at Registration Screen.

4. Fill in the information Dixie Classic is requesting. Do not worry, this website is free of charge.

5. Your User ID and Password can be anything you wish. You do not need KMEA or MENC information to access this web site.

6. After you have submitted your registration with Dixie Class you can now log onto their web site at any time.

7. Once logged into their system, you will be able to choose your classification and can search their extensive database for the Grade Classification of your desired literature.

2. The Classification Form

There is one form for Vocal Classification and One Form for Instrumental Classification.

The form is designed for both Junior and Senior Divisions(both middle and high school).

These forms are usually sent out by Festival Managers, however, we are all aware that between human error and standard mail, many things can go wrong. Thus, for your convenience, we have placed these forms on the web in two separate formats. One is in Adobe .PDF format(requires Acrobat Reader) and the other is in Microsoft Word.

Choose from the table below your appropriate Ensemble Category and Format of your choice.

3. Other Forms You May Need for Festival Participation

Schedule Request Form

Set-Up Form

4. Deadline!

To be early is to be on time. To be on time is to be late. That saying most definitely applies here. Although deadlines are not set as a whole, many will find that their Festival Managers will create a deadline. As a general courtesy, please send your form to your Festival Manager as soon as you can, and most definitely prior to the event.

We hope this tutorial has helped in the Classification Process. If you have further questions or concerns, please contact your Festival Manager or the KMEA Office at [859]-626-5635

Home | Solo & Ensemble Dates