Each tune is scored up to 100 points from each judge. These points are divided into 5 scoring categories. After the scores are calculated, the high and low scores will be discarded and the other three will be added together to arrive at the contestant’s scores.

Grand Master Open Preliminary Fiddler Championship

Qualifying round only, no scores will be carried over if selected to move to the Finals round. Any tunes played this round may be played again in the Open Finals and/or Championship round.

Grand Master Open and Youth Fiddler Championship

The scores from the Finals round WILL be added to the scores in the Championship round to arrive at the contestant’s total score. In the event of a tie, the dropped scores from the round will be added back in to break the tie.

Grand Master Accompanist

Determined by the greatest number of times on stage playing for a contestant and not scored.

SCORING CATEGORIES

The following point guidelines are considered in each category to help the judge determine their total score per tune.

1. Rhythm and Timing - 15 points - The judges will listen for even, consistent rhythm. Rushing, dragging, or unevenness in performance will result in lost points in this category.

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2. Creativity - 15 points - The judges will listen for variations, improvisations and "good licks". Repetitious performance (i.e., using the same "licks" over and over in the same tune) will result in lost points.

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3. Authenticity and Taste - 30 points - The judges will listen for selection of authentic performance styles in each category. Indiscriminate use of variations that make the base tune unclear (for example, use of "hokum" bowing or "double shuffle" where not a part of the traditional tune), and inappropriate modern licks will result in lost points. Recognized fiddle styles should be adhered to and use of classical, jazz, or other non-traditional improvisation will result in lost points. Remember - this is a FIDDLE contest, not a violin recital - fiddling ability as opposed to technical perfection is encouraged.

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4. Expression - 20 points - The judges will listen for the feeling that the contestants put into their performance. Flat, mechanical, unfeeling performances will result in lost points, as will excessive "showmanship".

5. Execution - 20 points - The judges will listen for tone quality, clarity, and general command of the instrument(s). Bad tone and muffled notes will result in lost points.

Last revised: NOV 3, 2025