This contest celebrates the continuing use of Latin in classical and contemporary vocal music, and it also provides a venue for TJCL delegates to showcase their musical talents.
There will be four categories of competition (without regard to grade level or level of Latin):
1. Individual – Traditional
2. Individual – Non-Traditional
3. Group – Traditional
4. Group – Non-Traditional
Traditional songs would be classical pieces such as “Ave Maria” and Renaissance madrigals, whereas non-traditional songs would be contemporary songs with Latin lyrics or modern pop songs whose lyrics have been translated into Latin (e.g., a Latin rendition of “Like a Rolling Stone”). If participation is low, some categories and levels may be combined for judging and awards.
All songs should be entirely in Latin.
Each school may enter a maximum of three individuals and one group.
Students may not perform in both categories, as judging will occur at the same time.
No more than five students may participate in the same group.
Three copies of the musical piece (both lyrics and music, if possible) must be brought to the competition for the judges. The musical piece must be introduced by a brief, spoken explanation of the song (in English).
There is no memorization requirement or expectation, but the contestants should carry their music in a black three-ring binder. Musical selections may be performed a capella, with live musical accompaniment (e.g., guitar, violin, banjo, etc.), or with recorded musical accompaniment (i.e., a CD). A CD player will be available in each room. Pianos will NOT be available. There is a time limit of 5 minutes per performance.
Delegates who bring their own instruments must be responsible for them. Instruments may NOT be stored in the TJCL office, and TJCL will take no responsibility for instruments that are lost or stolen.
Performances will be judged based on tone, diction, pitch, rhythm, technical accuracy, and musicality.