Rules

Please read the Competition Rules to see if you qualify to enter the contest.

1. The competition is open to all ages. Entries will be judged without regard to any competitor's age, nationality, or any other non-musical criteria..
2. The deadline for entries is 15th January 2009..
3. The competition fee is $25 per entry. A competitor may submit multiple entries, provided that a separate entry form and entry fee is provided for each entry. .
4. All submissions must be typeset using your choice of music notation software, and must be submitted electronically in pdf format with fonts embedded. .
5. IMPORTANT. All entries must NOT have the name of the composer/arranger anywhere on the music manuscript. Substitute a 6 character code of numerals and letters (eg. 2g7st0) and include the same code on your entry form. This ensures your anonymity with the judges.
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6. Entries must be written for a nylon or gut strung lever harp, between 22 and 36 strings. .
7. Entries should be appropriate for 'advanced beginner' or 'intermediate' players..
8. No person may win more than one prize..
9. Entries must fall into one of the following categories:
   A. An original arrangement of any melody in the public domain.
   B. An original composition..
10. Competition entries must not have been previously published by the entrant. Competitors are eligible even if they have previously published other music, unless they are ineligible as described in rule #9 below..
11. Competitors are INELIGIBLE if:
    A. They have published more than five individual pieces as sheet music and sold more than 200 total copies. - or
    B. They have published more than five individual pieces in compilation books with others arrangers or composers and sold more than 200 copies. - or
    C. They have self published a book or books of music and have sold more than 200 copies. - or
    D. They have had a book or books published by a publishing house and have sold more than 200 copies. - or
    E. They have twice won a place in the New Century Harp Competition winners book. .
12. The judges will consider the following criteria: -- suitability: Is the music appropriate for advanced beginner and intermediate levels.
    - playability: does the music flow well under the fingers
    - musicality: does it sound good
    - structure: is it compositionally satisfying
    - creativity: does it say something interesting
    - functionality: is this something people would like to play (and hear)
    - harpistic: does it make the instrument sound good
    - pleasure: is it enjoyable to play.
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13. The judges' decisions are final. 
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