All auditioning bands and percussion ensembles receive taped and written critiques from the evaluation committee. Evaluators then recommend to the Executive Director up to 18 bands and 8 percussion ensembles who demonstrated an exemplary level of excellence to perform at the Festival. Application consists of the completed Application Form submitted with the audition tape and application fee. Specific requirements for application, and audition tape requirements, are included on the Requirements for Application page in the application packet. The non-competitive atmosphere provides a place for growth, cooperative encouragement and mutual respect among band programs, band students, parents, boosters and administrators.
Directors select their own programs.
There are no required pieces. And since their are no ratings or rankings, directors and their bands are free to stretch themselves, reaching for new heights, striving for innovation, growth and excellence, instead of a score or placement. Participating students experience an atmosphere of mutual respect for their peers while enjoying concerts from other outstanding ensembles. Participants adhere to a dress code and code of conduct that enhances the world-class atmosphere of the Festival. The National Concert Band Festival and the auditioning process offers a unique opportunity for a wealth of input into your concert program from a world-class panel of music educators.