2026 Festival Syllabus - Composition
Composition Rules & Regulations
Failure to follow the Rules & Regulations below will disqualify participants from receiving a mark or class placement. Participants may still receive written and verbal evaluations from the adjudicator.
**Participants should consult the General Rules & Regulations.
Composition Guidelines A composition is considered an original piece of music written and notated by the participant. Any instrumentation is acceptable. The notation must be in standard notation or a type of notation that exists within the spirit of the varied idioms typical of composition. Charts are not considered a suitable form of notation for this class (see Singer-Songwriter classes in the Popular Voice division if you are composing original songs in a popular idiom).
Improvised Elements As a general guideline, no more than 10% of the composition should be improvised if the composition includes a portion of live improvisation.
Performance/Recordings Participants may choose to either perform their composition live or may provide an audio file in MP3 format (see below regarding Submission Requirements). A piano will be available for composition classes. Live performances may include up to 4 performers (to be arranged for and organized by the participant), and performers must bring their own instruments and music stands. Classes will not be evaluated based on the skill level of the performers and will be evaluated solely on the merits of the composition itself.
Multiple Registrations Participants may register multiple times for a composition class and must submit one (1) composition per registration. Those who register multiple times will receive a mark and written evaluation for each piece but will only be eligible for one class placement. For example, if a student submits two (2) compositions and receives the two (2) highest marks in the class, they will only be awarded 1st Place (2nd Place will be awarded to another participant with the next highest mark).
Submission Requirements Participants must submit a PDF of their composition (handwritten or computer-generated) as well as an audio file by March 31st of the year of the festival. Please mark this deadline on your calendars as soon as you have completed your registration. A reminder email with instructions will also be sent to registrants.
OMFA Provincial Requirements
Participants should consult the OMFA Syllabus guidelines (www.omfa.ca) if they are interested in participating in the OMFA Provincials, as the OMFA requirements may differ from the KW Kiwanis Music Festival Syllabus. At least one (1) selection must have received a mark of 85 at the local festival.
Composition Without Performance Video One (1) selection must be submitted (score only)
Composition With Performance Video One (1) selection must be submitted (score & video recording)