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Singing

Welcome to the Singing Syllabus for the 2024 Hastings Musical Festival!

There have been a number of changes to the singing syllabus so please make sure you read it carefully.
We hope to be back in The White Rock Theatre again for 2024 but if not we have made arrangements to use a separate venue in Hastings for Singing. We will keep you informed as soon as we have any updates.

Timetable available here - https://www.playandperform.co.uk/view_document.php?pubid=95&pnp_token=hi

I look forward to seeing you all in 2024.
Donna Barton. Email: festivalads7@gmail.com

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Syllabus

Browse the Singing timetable

Any queries contact the Section Secretary, Donna Barton at festivalads7@gmail.com

Classes

SINGING - MUSICAL THEATRE/FILM - SOLOS
Please note the changes from age groups to school year groups. Performers must be in the relevant school year groups when performing.
Performers will be expected to show an understanding of their character through their singing, movement (not dance) and dramatic content.
2041 Musical Theatre/Film Solo (Year 1)
Own Choice: Solo song from any musical show or film. Suitability of choice must be considered which regards to age group. Performers will be expected to show an understanding of their character through their singing, movement (not dance) and dramatic content. One hand prop is allowed but no costumes.
Fee    ₤8.00
Up to 3 mins
2042 Musical Theatre/Film Solo (Year 2)
Own Choice: Solo song from any musical show or film. Suitability of choice must be considered which regards to age group. Performers will be expected to show an understanding of their character through their singing, movement (not dance) and dramatic content. One hand prop is allowed but no costumes.
Award: PHEEBS' JUNIOR MUSICAL THEATRE CUP presented by Pheebs' Sing School
Fee    ₤8.00
Up to 3 mins
2043 Musical Theatre/Film Solo (Year 3)
Own Choice: Solo song from any musical show or film. Suitability of choice must be considered which regards to age group. Performers will be expected to show an understanding of their character through their singing, movement (not dance) and dramatic content. One hand prop is allowed but no costumes.
Fee    ₤8.00
Up to 3 mins
2044 Musical Theatre/Film Solo (Year 4)
Own Choice: Solo song from any musical show or film. Suitability of choice must be considered which regards to age group. Performers will be expected to show an understanding of their character through their singing, movement (not dance) and dramatic content. One hand prop is allowed but no costumes.
Award: THE PRIMARY SHOW SONG CUP presented in memory of Mr. Peter Rickets.
Fee    ₤8.00
Up to 3 mins
2046 Musical Theatre/Film Solo (Year 5)
Own Choice: Solo song from any musical show or film. Suitability of choice must be considered which regards to age group. Performers will be expected to show an understanding of their character through their singing, movement (not dance) and dramatic content. One hand prop is allowed but no costumes.
Fee    ₤8.00
Up to 3.5 mins
2048 Musical Theatre/Film Solo (Year 6)
Own Choice: Solo song from any musical show or film. Suitability of choice must be considered which regards to age group. Performers will be expected to show an understanding of their character through their singing, movement (not dance) and dramatic content. One hand prop is allowed but no costumes.
Award: THE APS CUP presented by Advanced Plumbing Solutions.
Fee    ₤8.00
Up to 3.5 mins
2050 Musical Theatre/Film Solo (Year 7)
Own Choice: Solo song from any musical show or film. Suitability of choice must be considered which regards to age group. Performers will be expected to show an understanding of their character through their singing, movement (not dance) and dramatic content. One hand prop is allowed but no costumes.
Fee    ₤8.00
Up to 4 mins
2052 Musical Theatre/Film Solo (Year 8)
Own Choice: Solo song from any musical show or film. Suitability of choice must be considered which regards to age group. Performers will be expected to show an understanding of their character through their singing, movement (not dance) and dramatic content. One hand prop is allowed but no costumes.
Award: THE BATTLE ABBEY SCHOOL TROPHY presented by Battle Abbey
Fee    ₤8.00
Up to 4 mins
2054 Musical Theatre/Film Solo (Year 9)
Own Choice: Solo song from any musical show or film. Suitability of choice must be considered which regards to age group. Performers will be expected to show an understanding of their character through their singing, movement (not dance) and dramatic content. One hand prop is allowed but no costumes.
Fee    ₤8.00
Up to 4 mins
2055 Musical Theatre/Film Solo (Year 10)
Own Choice: Solo song from any musical show or film. Suitability of choice must be considered which regards to age group. Performers will be expected to show an understanding of their character through their singing, movement (not dance) and dramatic content. One hand prop is allowed but no costumes.
Fee    ₤8.00
Up to 4 mins
2056 Musical Theatre/Film Solo (Year 11)
Own Choice: Solo song from any musical show or film. Suitability of choice must be considered which regards to age group. Performers will be expected to show an understanding of their character through their singing, movement (not dance) and dramatic content. One hand prop is allowed but no costumes.
Award: THEATRE SENSE CUP
Fee    ₤8.00
Up to 4 mins
2057 Musical Theatre/Film Solo (Year 12)
Own Choice: Solo song from any musical show or film. Suitability of choice must be considered which regards to age group. Performers will be expected to show an understanding of their character through their singing, movement (not dance) and dramatic content. One hand prop is allowed but no costumes.
Fee    ₤8.00
Up to 4 mins
2058 Musical Theatre/Film Solo (Year 13)
Own Choice Solo song from any Musical show or film (not including Gilbert and Sullivan). Performers will be expected to show an understanding of their character through their singing, movement (not dance), and dramatic content. One hand prop is allowed, but no costumes.
Award: THE THEATRE SENSE CUP
Fee    ₤8.00
Up to 4 mins
2059 Musical Theatre/Film Solo (Age 18 and over) OPEN
Own Choice: Solo song from any musical show or film. Suitability of choice must be considered which regards to age group. Performers will be expected to show an understanding of their character through their singing, movement (not dance) and dramatic content. One hand prop is allowed but no costumes.
Award: THE LESLIE FELSTEAD MEMORIAL TROPHY presented by Miss Norma Redfern.
Fee    ₤11.00
Up to 5 mins
2060 Cabaret Standard Solo (Age 13 to under 18)
Solo Cabaret or Standard song; a song not written for or performed in a musical. Post 1940 to present day. Suitability of song must be considered with regard to the festival and age of class. No costume.
Fee    ₤8.00
Up to 4 mins
2062 Singing Solo Early 20th Century Music Theatre (Age 13 and under 18)
Own Choice: Any song written by Ivor Novello, Irving Berlin, Gershwin, Jerome Kern or similar, pre 1945. Performers will be expected to show an understanding of their character through their singing, movement (not dance) and dramatic content. One hand prop is allowed, but no costumes.
Award: THE IVORA REES TROPHY. Presented by Ivora Rees.
Fee    ₤8.00
Up to 4 mins
CHOIRS AND GROUPS
 
Choirs may be accompanied by Piano, Keyboard or pre-recorded Backing Track (may contain instruments but no vocals)
Please note that accurate numbers of Choir size (and number of helpers) must be provided for all Choir classes. Please send an estimate when entering and send accurate numbers the week before performance.
Audience space for these classes will be limited. Audience tickets for the School Choirs will be available in advance, details will be shown on the Festival website.
Please provide copies of music for the Adjudicator.
2184 Beaver Scouts and Rainbows (Age under 9)
Own Choice: Action song or songs. Costume optional. At least 5 performers. Extra marks will be awarded for dongs of real merit with bona-fide action.
Award: THE MRS BETTY LUNN TROPHY presented by Mrs. Jenny Barton-Hibbs.
Fee   ₤21.50 per group
Group of a minimum of 5 people
Up to 7 mins
2186 Cub Scouts, Brownies or Guides (Age under 11)
Action Songs and Camp Fires
Own Choice: Action song or songs. Costume optional. Musical instruments permitted. At least 5 performers. Extra marks will be awarded for songs of real merit with bona-fide action.
Award: THE DOROTHY HALLET CHALLENGE CUP presented by Mrs. Dorothy Hallet.
Fee   ₤21.50 per group
Group of a minimum of 5 people
Up to 7 mins
2188 Singing Action & Campfire Songs - Scouts or Guides (Any age)
Own Choice: Campfire programme. Costume optional. At least 7 performers. Musical instruments permitted. Extra marks will be awarded for songs of real merit with bona-fide action.
Fee   ₤21.50 per group
Group of a minimum of 7 people
Up to 7 mins
2190 Choirs (Schools): 40 Voices or fewer (Up to and including year 6)
Own Choice: Programme of at least two contrasting songs. Choirs may be accompanied by piano, keyboard or backing tracks. Backing tracks must not contain any vocals.
Award: THE DEREK NORCROSS MEMORIAL TROPHY
Fee   ₤21.50 per group
Group of 2 to 40 people
Up to 7 mins
2192 Choirs (Schools): More than 40 voices (Up to and including year 6)
Own Choice: Programme of at least two contrasting songs. Choirs can be accompanied by piano, keyboard or backing tracks. The backing tracks must not contain any vocals.
Award: THE JOHN LOCKEY BANNER
Fee   ₤21.50 per group
Group of a minimum of 40 people
Up to 7 mins
2194 Choirs (Schools): Any number of voices (Up to and including year 4)
Own Choice: Programme of at least two contrasting songs. Any number of voices. Choirs can be accompanied by piano, keyboard or backing tracks. Backing tracks must not contain any vocals.
Award: THE SIR HENRY COWARD SHIELD
Fee   ₤21.50 per group
Group of any size
Up to 7 mins
2196 Choirs (Schools): Any number of voices (Up to and including year 8)
Own Choice: Programme of at least two contrasting songs. Any number of voices. Choirs can be accompanied by piano, keyboard or backing tracks. The backing tracks must not contain any vocals.
Award: THE MABEL E. JEPSON SILVER CHALLENGE SHIELD presented by Miss Mabel Elizabeth Jepson
Fee   ₤21.50 per group
Group of any size
Up to 7 mins
2197 Primary School Choirs Showcase: Fifteen or more voices
Hastings and Rother non fee paying primary schools only. A choir consisting of 15 or more pupils taken from any year groups. Funding available for a choir advocate to visit the school and support a non specialist teacher. Travel to the festival will also be supported. An opportunity to perform two songs in a showcase, non competitive setting. May be accompanied by live instruments or backing tracks. For more information contact: info@hastingsmf.org.uk
Fee   ₤0.00 per group
Group of 15 to 35 people
Up to 7 mins
2200 Youth Choirs: Seven or more voices (Age under 26)
Own Choice: Programme of at least two contrasting songs. Any combination of voices. Choirs can be accompanied by piano, keyboard or backing tracks. The backing tracks must not contain any vocals.
Award: THE READ BROWN SILVER CHALLENGE CUP
Fee   ₤21.50 per group
Group of a minimum of 7 people
Up to 7 mins
2202 Youth Show Choirs: Any number of voices (Age 18 and under)
A programme, lasting no more than 10 minutes, of two contrasting songs. The songs must not be by the same composer nor from the same show. The use of movement is optional. Choreography, if used, must be original and not be copied from any show. The performance is to be accompanied by piano or backing track which must not contain any backing vocals.
Award: PHEEBS' CHOIR AWARD presented by Pheebs' Sing School
Fee   ₤27.00 per group
Group of any size
Up to 10 mins
2203 Adult Show Choirs: Any number of voices (Age over 18)
A programme, lasting no more than 10 minutes, of two contrasting songs. The songs must not be by the same composer nor from the same show. The use of movement is optional. Choreography, if used, must be original and not be copied from any show. The performance is to be accompanied by piano or backing track which must not contain any backing vocals.
Fee   ₤27.00 per group
Group of any size
Up to 10 mins
2204 Adult Community Choirs: Any number of voices (Age 18 and over only)
Own Choice: ACCOMPANIED BY PIANO. Programme of at least two contrasting songs. Any combination of voices. Copies may be used if necessary.
PLEASE NOTE: Choreographed movement is not allowed.
Award: THE ST CECILIA SILVER CHALLENGE SHIELD
Fee   ₤27.00 per group
Group of any size
Up to 10 mins
2206 W.I. and Townswomen's Choirs: Seven or more voices (Any age)
Own Choice: Programme of at least two contrasting Songs. Copies may be used if necessary.
Award: THE MORTON CUP
Fee   ₤27.00 per group
Group of a minimum of 7 people
Up to 7 mins
2208 Church Choirs: Any number of voices (Any age)
Own choice: Programme of at least two contrasting songs. Copies may be used if necessary.
Award: THE H C BURGESS CUP
Fee   ₤27.00 per group
Group of any size
Up to 7 mins
2210 'A Capella' Group: Any number of voices (Any age)
Own Choice: Programme of at least two contrasting songs. For any unaccompanied choir or group, including madrigals, barbershop or other. Any number of voices. Copies may be used, if necessary.
Award: THE MRS. F. TYLER SILVER CHALLENGE CUP presented by The Round Table of Bexhill
Fee   ₤27.00 per group
Group of any size
Up to 7 mins
2212 Community Choirs: Any number of voices (Age under 13)
Own Choice: Programme of at least two contrasting songs. Choirs can be accompanied by piano, keyboard or backing tracks. The backing tracks must not contain any vocals. Any size group
Award: PHEEBS' COMMUNITY CHOIR AWARD presented by Pheebs' Sing School
Fee   ₤21.50 per group
Group of any size
Up to 7 mins
SINGING - DUETS AND ENSEMBLES
 
An Ensemble (as opposed to a Choir) is defined as one voice per part. Any minimum age limit will apply only to the eldest performer. Performers may only appear once in each class (unless otherwise stated). Appropriate arrangements allowable.
2170  Singing Duet (Age under 13)
Own Choice: Duet, any style (not musical theatre or pop vocals) any combination of voices.
Award: THE HITCHMAN CUP IN MEMORY OF DOROTHY AND ALFRED HITCHMAN presented by their family
Fee   ₤13.00 per group
Group of 2 people
Up to 4 mins
2172 Singing Duet (Age 13 and under 18)
Own Choice: Duet, any style (not musical theatre or pop vocals). Any combination of voices.
Award: THE ROBERT PATTENDEN CHALLENGE CUP
Fee   ₤13.00 per group
Group of 2 people
Up to 4 mins
2174 Singing Classical Duet (Non-operatic) (Age 18 and over)
Own Choice: must be pre 1960. Any combination of voices.
Award: THE PHILOMEL SILVER CHALLENGE CUP.
Fee   ₤16.00 per group
Group of 2 people
Up to 5 mins
2176 Singing Operatic Duet (Age 18 and over)
Own Choice: Any combination of voices. To be sung in original key.
Award: THE JULIE GEORGE CUP
Fee   ₤16.00 per group
Group of 2 people
Up to 6 mins
2178 Singing Ensemble (Age Under 18)
Own Choice: Not Show Song. ( If a song was written for a musical, it is not allowable). Any combination of voices.
Appropriate Ensemble arrangements allowable.
Award: THE HOPE CUP presented by Ms.Judith Coleman.
Fee   ₤13.00 per group
Group of any size
Up to 5 mins
2180 Singing Trio (Age 18 and over)
Own Choice: any combination of voices.
Fee   ₤16.00 per group
Group of 3 people
Up to 5 mins
2182 Singing Quartet (Age 18 and over)
Own Choice: Any combination of voices.
Award: THE EIRENE TICEHURST CHALLENGE CUP presented by The Tenterden Choral Society.
Fee   ₤16.00 per group
Group of 4 people
Up to 7 mins
SINGING - FOLK SONG - SOLOS AND ENSEMBLES
 
2088 Unaccompanied Folk Song Solo (Age under 11)
Own Choice: Solo song. Any traditional folk song from the British Isles.
Award: THE LILIAN CORDELL SILVER CHALLENGE CUP 'A'
Fee    ₤8.00
Up to 3.5 mins
2090 Unaccompanied Folk Song Solo (Age 11 and under 14)
Own Choice: Solo song. Any traditional folk song from the British Isles.
Award: LILIAN CORDELL SILVER CHALLENGE CUP 'B'
Fee    ₤8.00
Up to 4 mins
2092 Unaccompanied Folk Song Solo (Age 14 and under 18)
Own Choice: Solo song. Any traditional folk song from the British Isles.
Award: THE SELLENS FOLK AWARD presented by Mr. And Mrs. Sellens.
Fee    ₤8.00
Up to 4 mins
2094 Unaccompanied Folk Song Solo (Age 18 and over)
Own choice.
Up to 5 minutes
Award: THE LUCY METSON CUP.
Fee    ₤11.00
Up to 4.5 mins
2096 Unaccompanied Folk Song Group (Any age)
A group of a minimum of 2 people. Own choice.
Up to 8 minutes.
Fee   ₤16.00 per group
Group of any size
Up to 8 mins
2098  Folk Group with Instrumentalists and Optional Singers (Any age)
2 or more instrumentalists with optional singers
Own choice.
Up to 8 minutes
Fee   ₤16.00 per group
Group of any size
Up to 8 mins
SINGING - MASTER CLASSES
 
2166 Singing Master Class (Age 18 and under 30) NEW
Singers are invited to prepare one song or aria from the classical or musical theatre repertoire. It could be something that they are preparing for an exam, concert, competition or audition. The adjudicator will then work with them on language, interpretation, vocal technique and presentation. Each performer will have up to 15 minutes to work with the adjudicator. Performers must provide their own accompanist. Marks will not be awarded, but performers will receive a comment sheet.
Fee    ₤16.00
Up to 15 mins
2168 Singing Master Class (Age 30 and over) NEW
Singers are invited to prepare one song or aria from the classical or musical theatre repertoire. It could be something that they are preparing for an exam, concert, competition or audition. The adjudicator will then work with them on language, interpretation, vocal technique and presentation. Each performer will have up to 15 minutes to work with the adjudicator. Performers must provide their own accompanist. Marks will not be awarded, but performers will receive a comment sheet.
Fee    ₤16.00
Up to 15 mins
SINGING - POPULAR MUSIC VOCAL - SOLOS AND ENSEMBLES
 
Performers may choose from a wide range of genres, such as jazz, blues, rock etc. All songs must be suitable for performance at the festival - offensive lyrics will not be allowed, and the adjudicator will have the power to stop any performance deemed unsuitable.
A professional PA system and sound engineer will be available, together with a piano. Performers may be accompanied by a guitar.
If performers are using backing tracks, these should be uploaded onto Play and Perform before the entries close.
2074 Popular Music Vocal Solo (Years 2 and 3)
Own choice: any popular song. Not Show Song (if a song was originally written for a musical it is not allowable).
Performers may choose from a wide variety of genres such as jazz, blues, rock etc. All songs must be suitable for performance at the festival - offensive lyrics will not be allowed and the adjudicator will have the power to stop any performances deemed unsuitable. A professional PA system and sound engineer will be available, together with a piano. Performer may be accompanied by a guitar. If performers are using backing tracks, they need to be uploaded onto Play and Perform before the entries close.
Fee    ₤8.00
Up to 4 mins
2075 Popular Music Vocal Solo (Year 4)
Own choice: any popular song. Not Show Song (if a song was originally written for a musical it is not allowable).
Performers may choose from a wide variety of genres such as jazz, blues, rock etc. All songs must be suitable for performance at the festival - offensive lyrics will not be allowed and the adjudicator will have the power to stop any performances deemed unsuitable. A professional PA system and sound engineer will be available, together with a piano. Performer may be accompanied by a guitar. If performers are using backing tracks, they need to be uploaded onto Play and Perform before the entries close.
Fee    ₤8.00
Up to 4 mins
2076 Popular Music Vocal Solo (Year 5)
Own choice: any popular song. Not Show Song (if a song was originally written for a musical it is not allowable).
Performers may choose from a wide variety of genres such as jazz, blues, rock etc. All songs must be suitable for performance at the festival - offensive lyrics will not be allowed and the adjudicator will have the power to stop any performances deemed unsuitable. A professional PA system and sound engineer will be available, together with a piano. Performer may be accompanied by a guitar. If performers are using backing tracks, they need to be uploaded onto Play and Perform before the entries close.
Fee    ₤8.00
Up to 4 mins
2077  Popular Music Vocal Solo (Year 6)
Own choice: any popular song. Not Show Song (if a song was originally written for a musical it is not allowable).
Performers may choose from a wide variety of genres such as jazz, blues, rock etc. All songs must be suitable for performance at the festival - offensive lyrics will not be allowed and the adjudicator will have the power to stop any performances deemed unsuitable. A professional PA system and sound engineer will be available, together with a piano. Performer may be accompanied by a guitar. If performers are using backing tracks, they need to be uploaded onto Play and Perform before the entries close.
Fee    ₤8.00
Up to 4 mins
2078 Popular Music Vocal Solo (Year 7)
Own choice: any popular song. Not Show Song (if a song was originally written for a musical it is not allowable).
Performers may choose from a wide variety of genres such as jazz, blues, rock etc. All songs must be suitable for performance at the festival - offensive lyrics will not be allowed and the adjudicator will have the power to stop any performances deemed unsuitable. A professional PA system and sound engineer will be available, together with a piano. Performer may be accompanied by a guitar. If performers are using backing tracks, they need to be uploaded onto Play and Perform before the entries close.
Award:
Fee    ₤8.00
Up to 4 mins
2079 Popular Music Vocal Solo (Year 8)
Own choice: any popular song. Not Show Song (if a song was originally written for a musical it is not allowable).
Performers may choose from a wide variety of genres such as jazz, blues, rock etc. All songs must be suitable for performance at the festival - offensive lyrics will not be allowed and the adjudicator will have the power to stop any performances deemed unsuitable. A professional PA system and sound engineer will be available, together with a piano. Performer may be accompanied by a guitar. If performers are using backing tracks, they need to be uploaded onto Play and Perform before the entries close.
Fee    ₤8.00
Up to 4 mins
2080 Popular Music Vocal Solo (Year 9)
Own choice: any popular song. Not Show Song (if a song was originally written for a musical it is not allowable).
Performers may choose from a wide variety of genres such as jazz, blues, rock etc. All songs must be suitable for performance at the festival - offensive lyrics will not be allowed and the adjudicator will have the power to stop any performances deemed unsuitable. A professional PA system and sound engineer will be available, together with a piano. Performer may be accompanied by a guitar. If performers are using backing tracks, they need to be uploaded onto Play and Perform before the entries close.
Fee    ₤8.00
Up to 4 mins
2081 Popular Music Vocal Solo (Years 10 and 11)
Own choice: any popular song. Not Show Song (if a song was originally written for a musical it is not allowable).
Performers may choose from a wide variety of genres such as jazz, blues, rock etc. All songs must be suitable for performance at the festival - offensive lyrics will not be allowed and the adjudicator will have the power to stop any performances deemed unsuitable. A professional PA system and sound engineer will be available, together with a piano. Performer may be accompanied by a guitar. If performers are using backing tracks, they need to be uploaded onto Play and Perform before the entries close.
Fee    ₤8.00
Up to 4 mins
2082 Popular Music Vocal Solo (Years 12 and 13)
Own choice: any popular song. Not Show Song (if a song was originally written for a musical it is not allowable).
Performers may choose from a wide variety of genres such as jazz, blues, rock etc. All songs must be suitable for performance at the festival - offensive lyrics will not be allowed and the adjudicator will have the power to stop any performances deemed unsuitable. A professional PA system and sound engineer will be available, together with a piano. Performer may be accompanied by a guitar. If performers are using backing tracks, they need to be uploaded onto Play and Perform before the entries close.
Fee    ₤8.00
Up to 4 mins
2083 Popular Music Vocal Solo (Age 18 and over) OPEN
Own choice: any popular song. Not Show Song (if a song was originally written for a musical it is not allowable).
Performers may choose from a wide variety of genres such as jazz, blues, rock etc. All songs must be suitable for performance at the festival - offensive lyrics will not be allowed and the adjudicator will have the power to stop any performances deemed unsuitable. A professional PA system and sound engineer will be available, together with a piano. Performer may be accompanied by a guitar. If performers are using backing tracks, they need to be uploaded onto Play and Perform before the entries close.
Fee    ₤11.00
Up to 5 mins
2084 Popular Music Vocal Duet or Ensemble (Age 9 and under 14)
At least two singers. Singers may enter class twice - once in a duet and once more in a larger group. Own choice: any popular song. Not Show Song (if a song was originally written for a musical it is not allowable). Performers may choose from a wide variety of genres such as jazz, blues, rock etc. All songs must be suitable for performance at the festival - offensive lyrics will not be allowed and the adjudicator will have the power to stop any performances deemed unsuitable. A professional PA system and sound engineer will be available, together with a piano. Performer may be accompanied by a guitar. If performers are using backing tracks, they need to be uploaded onto Play and Perform before the entries close.
Up to 5 minutes.
Fee   ₤13.00 per group
Group of any size
Up to 5 mins
2086 Popular Music Vocal Duet or Ensemble (Age 14 and under 18)
At least two singers. Singers may enter the class twice, once in a duet and once more in a larger group. Own choice: any popular song. Not Show Song (if a song was originally written for a musical it is not allowable).
Performers may choose from a wide variety of genres such as jazz, blues, rock etc. All songs must be suitable for performance at the festival - offensive lyrics will not be allowed and the adjudicator will have the power to stop any performances deemed unsuitable. A professional PA system and sound engineer will be available, together with a piano. Performer may be accompanied by a guitar. If performers are using backing tracks, they need to be uploaded onto Play and Perform before the entries close.
Fee   ₤13.00 per group
Group of any size
Up to 4 mins
SINGING RECITAL
2122 Recital Solo Junior (Age 13 and under 18)
Own Choice contrasting programme of two, three or four songs. Credit will be given for choice of programme, presentation, dress, deportment and personality. Time limit includes introduction and pauses between songs. Programme may include one song performed in another class during current festival. The programme may include Musical Theatre but Pop Songs are not acceptable. A standard of at least ABRSM Grade V is expected.
Award: THE BATTLE ABBEY SCHOOL SHIELD
Fee    ₤11.00
Up to 15 mins
2124 Recital Solo Adult (Age 18 and over) OPEN
Own Programme. Time limit includes introduction and pauses between songs. Credit will be given for choice of programme, presentation, dress, deportment and personality. It is suggested that dress should be such as would be suitable for a lunch-hour concert.
Award: THE W.H.DYER ROSE BOWL
Fee    ₤21.50
Up to 15 mins
SINGING ME                 
SINGING - SELF ACCOMPANIED
 
2100 Self Accompanied Solo (Age 11 and under 16)
Own Choice: Song with Piano, Acoustic Guitar or Harp. Not pop song. Copies of the music must be provided for the Adjudicator.
Credit will be given for presentation and musical standard of the Song.
Fee    ₤8.00
Up to 4 mins
2102 Self Accompanied Solo (Age 16 and under 18)
Own Choice: Song with Piano, Accoustic Guitar or Harp.
Not a Pop Song. Copies of music must be provided for the adjudicator.
Credit will be given for presentation and musical standard of the Song.
Up to 4 minutes.
Fee    ₤8.00
Up to 4 mins
2104 Self Accompanied Solo (Age 18 and over)
Own Choice: Song with Piano, acoustic Guitar or Harp. Not pop song. Copies of the music must be provided for the Adjudicator.
Credit will be given for presentation and Musical standard of the Song.
Up to 4 minutes.
Fee    ₤11.00
Up to 4 mins
SINGER AND ACCOMPANIST
 
Will be adjudicated on combined performance of competitors. In the Singer and Accompanist classes a performer may appear a second time in the other capacity. No electronic keyboards are permitted.
2118 Singer and Accompanist (Both performers age under 15)
Own Choice. This class will be adjudicated on the combined performance of both competitors. A performer can appear for a second time in the other capacity. Accompanying will be on the piano.
Fee   ₤13.00 per group
Group of 2 people
Up to 4 mins
2120 Singer and Accompanist (Both performers age 15 and under 18)
Own Choice. This class will be adjudicated on the combined performance of both competitors. A performer can appear for a second time in the other capacity. Accompanying will be on the piano.
Fee   ₤13.00 per group
Group of 2 people
Up to 4 mins
SINGER/SONGWRITER
 
2114 Singer/Songwriter Solo (Age 11 to under 15)
Can be self accompanied or accompanied by piano or guitar. A professional PA system and sound engineer will be available. Performer must have written the tune, lyrics and accompaniment. Lyrics and music or chords to be provided for the adjudicator. Note: the same song cannot also be used in a solo pop-vocal class.
Award: THE MATTHEW JAMES MEMORIAL CUP presented by Emma Burnett.
Fee    ₤8.00
Up to 4 mins
2116 Singer/Songwriter Solo (Age 15 and under 18)
Can be self accompanied or accompanied by piano or guitar. A professional PA system and sound engineer will be available. Performer must have written the tune, lyrics and accompaniment. Lyrics and music or chords to be provided for the adjudicator. Note: the same song cannot be performed in the solo pop vocal class.
Award: THE MICHAEL JAMES MEMORIAL CUP presented by Emma Burnett)
Fee    ₤8.00
Up to 4 mins
SINGING MEDALS
 
2126 Singing Bronze Medal (Age under 18)
OWN CHOICE of 2 contrasting pieces from a current Grade 5 singing syllabus, not Music Theatre, Film or Pop Music.
Competitors may only enter for one singing medal class.
Award: BRONZE MEDAL
Fee    ₤12.00
2128 Singing Silver Medal (Age under 18)
OWN CHOICE of 2 contrasting pieces from a current grade 7 singing syllabus, not Music Theatre, Film or Pop Music.
Competitors may only enter for one singing medal class.
Award: SILVER MEDAL
Fee    ₤16.00
2130 Singing Silver Medal (Age 18 and over)
Own Choice: Classical Song. Credit will be given for presentation and Musical standard of Song.A winning mark of 87 must be achieved before the medal can be awarded.
Award: SILVER MEDAL
Fee    ₤16.00
Up to 5 mins
2132 Singing Gold Medal (Age 18 and over) OPEN
The Gold Medal will be awarded to the winner with a mark of 90 and above and only to a singer who is not already a Hastings Musical Festival Gold Medallist. However former Gold Medallists entering the class will be eligible to win the cash prize of £150.

A Cash prize of £150 for the winner of this Class if a mark of 87 and over is awarded.

Own choice. To perform two contrasting songs of at least Grade 8 standard. One piece is to be an English Art Song. The other choice can be any style but not Pop Vocals.
Credit will be given for presentation, dress and musical standard of the songs. Please note: this class will not take place if fewer than three entries are received.
Award: GOLD MEDAL. A cash prize of £150 if a mark of 87 and over is awarded.
Fee    ₤20.00
SINGING - SOLOS
 
2000 Singing Solo (Age under 8)
OWN CHOICE
Solo Song. Not Musical Theatre, Film or Pop Song.
Award: THE MAUREEN AUMONIER MEMORIAL CUP presented by A Friend
Fee    ₤8.00
Up to 2 mins
2001 Singing Solo (Age 8 and 9)
OWN CHOICE: not Musical Theatre, Film or Pop Song
Fee    ₤8.00
Up to 2 mins
2002 Singing Solo (Age 10 and 11)
OWN CHOICE: not Musical Theatre, Film or Pop Song.
Award:
Fee    ₤8.00
Up to 2.5 mins
2003 Singing Solo (Age 12 to 14)
OWN CHOICE: not Musical Theatre, Film or Pop Song
Award: THE ERIC THIMAN SILVER CHALLENGE CUP
Fee    ₤8.00
Up to 3 mins
2004 Singing Solo (Age 15 and under 18)
OWN CHOICE
Not Musical Theatre , Film or Pop Song
Award: THE CLIFFORD GLAZIER SILVER CHALLENGE CUP presented by Mr & Mrs A J Glazier.
Fee    ₤8.00
Up to 4 mins
2006 English Song Solo (Age 14 and under 18)
Own choice. Vaughan Williams, Quilter, Britten, M. Dring, C. Liddell, R.R. Bennett or similar.
Award: THE BRENDA BENTALL CUP presented by The Bentall Family
Fee    ₤8.00
Up to 4 mins
2008 Verse and Song Solo (Age under 12)
Own Choice: English Art Song.
Words to be recited first as a poem and then sung.
Time limit to include introduction, poem and song.
Award: THE HILDEN GRANGE CUP presented by Hilden Grange School.
Fee    ₤8.00
Up to 5 mins
2010 Verse and Song Solo (Age 12 and under 18 )
Own Choice: English Art Song
Words to be recited first as a poem then sung.
Time limit to include introduction, poem and song.
Award: THE KEN JOHNSON TROPHY presented by Ken Johnson
Fee    ₤8.00
Up to 5 mins
2012 Verse and Song Solo (Age 18 and over)
Own Choice: English Art Song
Words to be recited first as a poem, then sung. Time limit to include introduction, poem and song.
Award: THE ATKINSON CUP presented by Judy Atkinson.
Fee    ₤11.00
Up to 5 mins
2014 Sacred Song Solo (Age 12 and under 18)
Own Choice: One Song (can be from Oratorio). Note: to be sung from memory.
Award: THE GEORGE SAUNDERS MEMORIAL ROSE BOWL presented by Miss Beryl Saunders.
Fee    ₤8.00
Up to 4 mins
2016 Gilbert & Sullivan Solo, Duet or Ensemble (Age under 18)
Any Solo, Duet, Trio or Quartet from an Opera by Gilbert & Sullivan.
Soloists may also enter this class in a duet, trio or quartet as a separate entry.
Up to 4 minutes.
Award: THE JUNIOR GILBERT & SULLIVAN TROPHY presented by Supporters Anonymous.
Fee   Solo: ₤8.00     Group: ₤13.00 per group
Solo or Group of 2 to 4 people
Up to 4 mins
2018 Foreign Language Song Solo (Age 12 and under 18)
Own Choice: Any classical solo song in a foreign language. Not Mother Tongue.
Award: THE GERTRUDE ROSSA SHIELD presented by Mrs. Karen McInally
Fee    ₤8.00
Up to 4 mins
2020 Humorous Song Solo (Age under 9)
Own Choice: Not Show Song. Costume and hand-held props acceptable. Accompaniment can be by any solo instrument.
Award: THE PAULINE BARTON CUP presented by Her Family.
Fee    ₤8.00
Up to 3 mins
2022 Humorous Song Solo (Age 9 and under 12)
Own choice, not Show Song. Costume and hand-held props are acceptable. Accompaniment can be by any solo instrument.
Fee    ₤8.00
Up to 4 mins
2024 Humorous Song Solo (Age 12 and under 15)
Own choice, not Show Song. Costume and hand-held props acceptable. Accompaniment can be by any solo instrument.
Fee    ₤8.00
Up to 4 mins
2026 Humorous Song Solo (Age 15 and under 18)
Own choice, not Show Song. Costume and hand-held props acceptable. Accompaniment can be by any solo instrument.
Fee    ₤8.00
Up to 4 mins
2028 Humorous Song Solo (Age 18 and over)
Own Choice: Not Show Song. Costume and hand-held props acceptable. Accompaniment can be by any solo instrument.
Up to 5 minutes.
Award: THE COLIN BARTON CUP presented by His Family.
Fee    ₤11.00
Up to 5 mins
2030 English Art Song Solo 20th and 21st Century (Age 18 and over) OPEN
Own choice: Vaughan Williams, Quilter, Britten, M. Dring, C. Liddell, R.R. Bennett or similar. (See also Class 2056 Verse and Song class for Age 16 and over)
Anyone who gains a mark of 87 and over in this class is eligible to enter the Gold Medal Class .
Award: THE MOLLY TOWNSON CUP
Fee    ₤11.00
Up to 4 mins
2032 Sacred Song Solo (Not Oratorio) (Age 18 and over)
Own Choice.
Award: THE PERCY WILLIAM MACEY CHALLENGE CUP
Fee    ₤11.00
Up to 5 mins
2034 International Art Song Solo 20th and 21st Century (Age 18 and over) OPEN
Own Choice: Any solo Art song not from the British Isles: Grieg, Sibelius, John Duke, Barber, Granados, De Falla, Respighi, or similar. (Excluding French and Lieder.) May be sung in original language or in translation.
Award: THE PAUL HAMBURGER CUP presented by Miss Jane Metcalfe.
Fee    ₤11.00
Up to 4 mins
2036 Vintage Song Solo (Age under 18)
Own Choice. Popular song from 1870-1945, including Music Hall, Drawing Room Ballad, wartime standards and jazz standards from that era. . No costume.
Fee    ₤8.00
Up to 4 mins
2037 Vintage Song Solo (Age 18 and over)
Own Choice. Popular song from 1870-1945, including Music Hall, Drawing Room Ballad, wartime standards and jazz standards from that era. Period costume optional but encouraged. Performers may invite audience participation where appropriate.
Fee    ₤11.00
Up to 5 mins
2038 Singing Senior Solo (Age 60 and under 70) OPEN
Own Choice. Copies may be used.
Up to 4 minutes.
Award: THE HELEN HENSCHEL CHALLENGE CUP
Fee    ₤11.00
Up to 4 mins
2040 Singing Senior Solo (Age 70 and over)
Own Choice. Copies may be used.
Up to 4 minutes.
Award: THE ANN DALTON ROSE BOWL
Fee    ₤11.00
Up to 4 mins
SINGING - SOLOS OR ENSEMBLES - OPTIONAL
 
2106 Singing Novice Solo or Duet (Age 18 and over)
New Rule
This class is free to anyone who has never sung in Hastings Musical Festival.
Own Choice: Not Pop Music. Any voice, male or female. Open to performers who have not won a first place in any Festival affiliated to the Federation. Performers may enter twice in this class, once as a soloist and again as part of a duet as a separate entry
Fee   Solo: ₤11.00     Group: ₤16.00 per group
Solo or Group of 2 people
Up to 4 mins
2108 Gilbert & Sullivan Solo, Duet or Ensemble (Age 18 and over)
Any solo, duet, trio or quartet from an opera by Gilbert & Sullivan. Soloists may also enter this class in a duet, trio or quartet as a separate entry.
Up to 4 minutes.
Fee   Solo: ₤11.00     Group: ₤16.00 per group
Solo or Group of 2 to 4 people
Up to 4 mins
2110 Light Opera Solo or Duet (Age 18 and over)
Any solo or duet from light opera or similar, published before 1950. (Johann Strauss, Lehar, Monckton, Balfe, Novello, Coward, Vivian Ellis or similar). Not Gilbert & Sullivan. Soloists may also enter this class in a duet as a separate entry.
Up to 5 minutes.
Award: THE MOORE CUP presented by Richard and Lesley Moore
Fee   Solo: ₤11.00     Group: ₤16.00 per group
Solo or Group of 2 people
Up to 5 mins
2112 Musical Play Solo, Duet or Ensemble (Age 18 and over)
Own Choice. Any solo, duet, trio or quartet from any musical play (Gershwin, Berlin, Rodgers and Hammerstein, Kern, Bernstein, Lerner and Loewe, Sondheim or similar). Soloists may also enter this class in a duet, trio or quartet as a separate entry.
Up to 5 minutes.
Fee   Solo: ₤11.00     Group: ₤16.00 per group
Solo or Group of 2 to 4 people
Up to 5 mins
THE JOHN LOCKEY CHAMPIONSHIP
 
The John Lockey Championship is open only to the winners of classes 2134 to 2144 who qualify automatically, with a mark of 80, to compete.
If an entrant has qualified in two classes, he/she must choose one piece for the championship.
2134  Soprano Solo (Age 18 and over)
OWN CHOICE, Suitable for a soprano voice.
English Art Song : Vaughan Williams, Quilter, Britten, M.Dring, C.Liddell, R.R. Bennett or similar.
Fee    ₤11.00
Up to 5 mins
2136 Mezzo-Soprano Solo (Age 18 and over)
OWN CHOICE, Suitable for a Mezzo-soprano voice.
English Art Song : Vaughan Williams, Quilter, Britten, M.Dring, C.Liddell, R.R. Bennett or similar.

Fee    ₤11.00
Up to 5 mins
2138 Contralto Solo (Age 18 and over)
OWN CHOICE, Suitable for a Contralto voice.
English Art Song : Vaughan Williams, Quilter, Britten, M.Dring, C.Liddell, R.R. Bennett or similar.
Fee    ₤11.00
Up to 5 mins
2140 Tenor Solo (Age 18 and over)
OWN CHOICE, Suitable for a Tenor voice.
English Art Song : Vaughan Williams, Quilter, Britten, M.Dring, C.Liddell, R.R. Bennett or similar.
Fee    ₤11.00
Up to 5 mins
2142 Baritone Solo (Age 18 and over)
OWN CHOICE, Suitable for a Baritone voice.
English Art Song : Vaughan Williams, Quilter, Britten, M.Dring, C.Liddell, R.R. Bennett or similar.
Fee    ₤11.00
Up to 5 mins
2144 Bass Solo (Age 18 and over)
OWN CHOICE, Suitable for a Bass voice.
English Art Song : Vaughan Williams, Quilter, Britten, M.Dring, C.Liddell, R.R. Bennett or similar.
Fee    ₤11.00
Up to 5 mins
2146 The John Lockey Championship (Age 18 and over)
Open only to the winners of classes 2134 to 2144 who qualify automatically, with a mark of 80, to compete. If an entrant has qualified in two classes, he/she must choose one piece for the championship.
Award: THE JOHN LOCKEY CHAMPIONSHIP ROSE BOWL
Fee    ₤0.00
THE JUNE ELGAR MEMORIAL CHAMPIONSHIP
 
The June Elgar Memorial Championship is open only to the winners of classes 2148 - 2162 who qualify with a mark of 80 to compete.
If an entrant has qualified in two classes, he/she must choose one piece for the Championship.
2148 Early Music Solo (Age 18 and over) OPEN
Own Choice: A song or aria composed before 1800. Any language.
The winner is eligible for The June Elgar Memorial Championship if a mark of at least 80 is awarded.
Award: THE EARLY MUSIC CUP presented by Miss Naomi Kilby
Fee    ₤11.00
Up to 6 mins
2150 French Solo (Age 18 and over) OPEN
Own choice from any French classical composer.
To be sung in French.
The winner will be eligible for the June Elgar Memorial Championship if a mark of at least 80 is awarded.
Award: THE YVES GOEAU CHALLENGE CUP
Fee    ₤11.00
Up to 5 mins
2152 Lieder Solo (Age 18 and over) OPEN
Own Choice: Any composer.
To be sung in German.
Winner eligible for June Elgar Memorial Championship if mark of at least 80 awarded.
Award: THE CECILIE ELSWORTH SILVER CHALLENGE CUP presented by Miss Cecilie Elsworth.
Fee    ₤11.00
Up to 5 mins
2154 Mozart Operatic or Concert Aria Solo (Not Oratorio) (Age 18 and over) OPEN
Own Choice: One aria only in original key.
Winner eligible for June Elgar Memorial Championship if mark of at least 80 awarded.
Award: THE VERITY ANN BATES CHALLENGE CUP presented by Miss Bates.
Fee    ₤11.00
Up to 6 mins
2156 Operatic Women Solo (Age 18 and over) OPEN
Own Choice: One aria only in the original key. Recit. optional.
Winner eligible for June Elgar Memorial Championship if mark of at least 80 awarded.
Award: CONCHITA SUPERVIA ROSE BOWL 'A' presented by Miss Dorothy Walker
Fee    ₤11.00
Up to 6 mins
2158 Operatic Men Solo (Age 18 and over) OPEN
Own Choice. One Aria only in original key. Recit. Optional.
Winner eligible for The June Elgar Memorial Championship if a mark of at least 80 is awarded.
Award: CONCHITA SUPERVIA ROSE BOWL 'B' presented by Miss Dorothy Walker.
Fee    ₤11.00
Up to 6 mins
2160 Oratorio Women Solo (Age 18 and over) OPEN
Own Choice: One aria in the original key. Copies may be used. NOW INCLUDING BACH ARIA .
Winner eligible for the June Elgar Memorial Championship if a mark of at least 80 awarded.
Award: THE WINIFRED DIXON CHALLENGE CUP.
Fee    ₤11.00
Up to 8 mins
2162 Oratorio Men Solo (Age 18 and over) OPEN
Including Bach Aria.
Own Choice. One aria in original key. Copies may be used.
Winner eligible for the June Elgar Memorial Championship if a mark of at least 80 is awarded.
Fee    ₤11.00
Up to 8 mins
2164 The June Elgar Memorial Championship (Age 18 and over) OPEN
Open only to the winners of classes 2148-2162 who qualify with a mark of 80 to compete. If an entrant has qualified in two classes, he/she must choose one piece for the championship.
Award: THE JUNE ELGAR MEMORIAL CHAMPIONSHIP TROPHY presented by John and Elaine Elgar.
Fee    ₤0.00

Adjudicators

Adjudicator

Neil Jenkins

Neil has been singing all his life, joining his first choir at the age of 6. He was a Chorister at Westminster Abbey, and then a Choral Scholar at King’s College Cambridge. Whilst there he was the first tenor in the vocal group ‘The Kings Singers’, and sang in the first concerts given by John Eliot Gardiner’s ‘Monteverdi Choir’. He has been singing professionally for more than 50 years, having made his debut at London’s South Bank centre in 1967.He is now an internationally renowned tenor, conductor and music editor and has recorded over 60 discs of opera, oratorio and song with many of the world’s leading conductors and musicians, including Benjamin Britten, Leonard Bernstein, Alfred Deller, Riccardo Chailly, Sir Charles Mackerras, Sir Andrew Davies, Sir Roger Norrington, Sir Neville Marriner, Richard Hickox, Andrew Parrott, Kent Nagano and Hans Werner Henze.

In the 1970s he was appointed as an RCM singing professor by Sir David Willcocks, for whom he became a regular soloist with the London Bach Choir, especially as the Evangelist in the Bach Passions, performed annually at the Royal Festival Hall.

Neil has carved out a unique career, being equally at home as an Operatic, Oratorio and Recital singer, combining this with an increasingly important role as a musicologist. He has translated and edited Bach’s major choral works for the New Novello Choral Edition, and has produced other editions for OUP, Kevin Mayhew and Barn End Press. For 12 years he ran his own international summer school for singers every August, and now gives a regular series of master classes, is a well-known Music Festival adjudicator, and sits on international singing juries. Neil has written the biography of the Handelian singer and first great English tenor, John Beard, and recently curated an exhibition about the singer at the Handel House Museum. His memoirs were published by Barn End Press in May 2021.