2026 Festival Syllabus - Orchestras & String Ensembles
Ensemble Class Descriptions
Small Ensembles May include 4-15 ensemble members, may have multiple players per part, and can be either self-led or conductor led. Small Ensemble Options include Guitar/Ukulele Ensemble, Percussion Ensemble, Wind Ensemble, Strings Ensemble and Chamber Choir. Class Levels: Small Ensembles should enter the age group that represents the majority of the ensemble members. If there is an equal number of members in different age groups participants should enter the higher age level.
Large Ensembles Includes groups with 15 or more ensemble members, with multiple players per part and is conductor-led. Large Ensemble Options include Concert Band, Stage/Jazz Band, String Orchestra, Symphony Orchestra and Concert Choir. Class Levels: Large Ensembles should enter at the level the represents the majority of the ensemble members.
Ensemble Class Options
- 20 Minute Workshop Ensembles will have a total of 20 minutes on stage including both their performance time and the adjudicator's workshop. Ensembles may perform one (1) or two (2) selections with a recommended performance time limit of 6 minutes to allow time for the workshop. If an ensemble chooses to play two (2) selections the adjudicator will assign one mark which is the average for both pieces. No preference will be given based on how many pieces the participant plays.
- 30 Minute Workshop Ensembles will have a total of 30 minutes on stage including both their performance time and the adjudicator's workshop. Ensembles must play two (2) selections, with a recommended performance time limit of 10 minutes to allow time for the workshop.
Ensemble Rules & Regulations
Multi-movement Selections One (1) selection may consist of multiple movements. No more than two (2) contrasting movements are permitted to be played for a selection.
Scores & Sheet Music Participants must provide the adjudicator with a legally purchased copy of the music for all selections (a purchase receipt or IMSLP listing must be presented for digital copies), even when the piece is being performed by memory. Refer to the General Regulations & Guidelines for more information about Copyright.
Class Awards Participants in competitive ensemble classes will be awarded a Gold, Silver or Bronze Seal of Standard based on their marks: Gold for a mark of 90 and above, Silver for a mark of 85-89, and Bronze for a mark of 80-84. Marks will be recorded on comment sheets but will not be shared with the class, and no class placements (I.e., 1st, 2nd, 3rd) will be announced.
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.
- Small Ensembles: One (1) or Two (2) selections may be performed. Only one selection may have a brief solo passage that may not exceed 20% of the total length of the piece.
- School Bands: Two (2) contrasting selections must be performed.