Judges are instructed to make constructive comments - positive and negative. In fact, if a student receives less than a superior mark the judge must explain why. If the judges give a student different ratings, the student will be awarded the higher rating if the ratings are adjacent or the average if the ratings differ by two levels. Students receive points for the ratings they receive, and their records are kept on file by the local festival chair. As the students accumulate points each year, they can receive gold cups for each event in which they have participated if their teacher is enrolled in the gold cup program.
Memorization is required for the solo events.
Also, students must belong to a junior club which is registered with the state federation. The junior club can be sponsored by a senior club, or simply be a group of students that belong to an individual teacher. I have participated actively in the Federation Festival for seven years, and I have found it to be of great value on several levels. It is very motivational for the student. For most musicians, an upcoming performance provides great incentive for increased practice.