I entered a contest last week and lost(big surprise) and it got me thinking about what do judges look for in a performance, and if I’m not a singer what are some ways to make my breaks longer?
Any suggestions on how to have a better chance at winning contests?
Thanks,
Juan Solo
That’s a pretty general topic (but a fun discussion). Was it a fiddlers convention or what kind of contest?
I haven’t read the book but Allen has been both a contest player and a judge and has written a book based off his experiences. Probably lots of useful information for a first time contestant.
@Flatpickin_Libby
it was a bluegrass/gospel contest just play anything in those genres and they judge it.
@Timothy_L
I have seen the book but it is expensive that is why I asked the question, I thought maybe someone here might have some ideas
Juan Solo
Strategy 1: Bribe the judges.
Strategies 2-infinity:
It honestly depends. Some judges look more for creativity, and others (like at some fiddlers’ conventions) won’t like it if you stray from the melody or play things that aren’t very traditional.
However, I imagine that every judge looks for a cleanly executed performance. So cleanliness, good timing, and good tone are key things to focus on, no matter your style.
Usually in a contest you play the tune through multiple times. The first time, you usually state the melody pretty clearly. The second and third times are the places for your fancier licks, and you can bring back more melody at the very end to close it out.
One of the best things you can do is listen to a bunch of contest arrangements and see how they are structured. You can watch the Winfield banjo competition, find videos from Galax and other fiddlers’ conventions, or just watch videos of @Timothy_L.
What did you play in this last contest? We’d love to hear it if you got recording as well!
Cody Kilby and Kenny Smith talk about contests a bit in this lesson. Around 10 minutes and 30 seconds into the video.
https://banjobenclark.com/lessons/inside-cabin-camp-with-cody-kilby-guitar-intermediate
Might be something helpful in there.
I guess you’ve gotta be pretty good to win a contest 
