• Submission of an application indicates that both the member and participant fully understand and agree to the contents of the competition regulations, and will strictly adhere to them.

• All updates regarding regulations, rules, event details, requirements, and announcements will be published exclusively on the Association’s official website without separate notifications.

• All competition-related regulations, rules, and information provided in English are for reference only. In case of any discrepancies or interpretations, the Chinese version shall prevail.

• All information and announcements published on the Association’s website form part of the official competition regulations.

• To avoid administrative confusion or errors, participants are responsible for ensuring that the information provided is complete, truthful, and complies with the competition regulations and rules of each event.

• The Association does not bear responsibility for verifying whether participants meet the eligibility requirements.

• Any participant who fails to meet the eligibility requirements, does not comply with the Association’s regulations, or violates any rules may be disqualified at any time, before or after the competition, without prior notice. Registration fees will not be refunded in such cases.

1.

Eligibility

1.1

All full-time or part-time students currently enrolled in local kindergartens, primary, or secondary schools in Hong Kong are eligible to apply. Upon registration, they will automatically become members of the Association.

1.2

Participants must contact their school to confirm their student status after registration. Participants who are under 18 years of age on the registration deadline must obtain parental or guardian consent.

2.

Registration

2.1

This year’s competition accepts registration via in-person submission, postal mail, and online system. For registration procedures and details, please refer to the "Registration and Payment Overview" or visit our official website: http://www.jsma.org.hk

2.2

Upon successful registration, a competition registration number will be issued. Please keep this number until the competition ends.

2.3

Registration Period From 15 September 2024

Registration opens

Online Registration

From 15 September 2024 to 15 December 2024 (before 5:00 PM)

In-person and Postal Registration

From 16 October 2024 to 17 November 2024 (based on postmark date)

Payment Deadline

20 December 2024 (before 5:00 PM)

2.3.1

All early-submitted applications and payments will be processed after 15 November.

2.3.2

Any late submissions will be reviewed by the competition committee based on feasibility. If accepted, an administrative fee will apply.

2.3.3

The competition operates primarily on a school-based system. If a participant registers individually, they must inform their respective school teacher. If direct communication with the participant cannot be established during the event, the committee may contact the school teacher.

2.3.4

All solo event registrations, regardless of submission method, will be processed as individual registrations. The registration details will be shared with the registered school.

2.3.5

Applicants must clearly select their preferred communication method and provide accurate contact details. If contact information is unclear or unidentifiable, all related notifications and awards will be sent to the registered school for handling.

2.4

Registration Fees

2.4.1

For fee details of each category, please refer to our website:"Competition Categories and Fees".

2.4.2

Available payment methods can be found in"Registration and Payment Overview".

2.4.3

All fees are non-refundable once paid, unless the competition is completely cancelled due to special circumstances outlined in section 3.1.4 or others. In cases such as Education Bureau class suspensions, rule violations, inability to obtain music scores, illness, personal reasons, or school activities, no refunds will be issued for absence from the competition.

2.4.4

If the competition is completely cancelled due to special circumstances described in 2.4.3, the fees collected will be used to cover related expenses. The remaining balance will be proportionally deducted from the next year’s registration fees (based on the officially announced fee schedule). Special announcements will be made regarding this arrangement.

2.4.5

All applications must include valid payment proof such as a bank deposit slip (physical or screenshot of online payment). Failure to provide proof due to loss of receipt or screenshot will result in the application not being processed.

2.5

Participant Information Modification

2.5.1

Before submitting the registration, all information must be reviewed for accuracy. Participants are responsible for updating their latest personal information in the online registration system.

2.5.2

The participant information shown on the "Competition Notification" will be considered final. If any discrepancy is found, please email the committee for correction before the deadline stated in the notification. Any changes requested after the deadline must be submitted in writing and, if accepted, will incur an administrative fee (see the “Administrative Charges Table”).

2.5.3

The following information is considered essential for the competition and must be updated annually before registration:

1. Mailing Address

2. Email Address

3. Contact Phone Number

4. School (especially when transferring or advancing to secondary school)

5. Grade and Class (for proper delivery of awards and certificates)

2.6

Competition Notification Letter

2.6.1

Starting from 2025, all paper notifications will no longer be mailed.

2.6.2

All participants/groups will receive their “Competition Notification Letter” via email at least one month before the event. The same will also be available for download in the online registration system. This letter serves as proof of participation. One letter will be issued per individual/team per event. If a participant is registered for two events, two letters will be issued.

2.6.4

Upon receiving the "Competition Notification Letter", please verify all details listed. Subsequent result announcements and certificate printing will be based on the data in this letter.

3.

Competition Rules

3.1

General Guidelines

3.1.1

The Association reserves the right to amend the published competition regulations and event details. Any changes will be announced on the Association’s website. All information shall be based on the latest online publication.

3.1.2

Competition dates and times may be scheduled on non-holiday school days. The scheduling of dates, times, performance order, and venue for all categories will be solely arranged by the Association. Participants shall not object.

3.1.3

The Association reserves the right to adjust, modify, or cancel any competition arrangements when necessary.

3.1.4

In the event of unforeseen circumstances making it unsafe or impractical to hold live competitions, the Association may postpone or change the competition format (including but not limited to closed-door performances, online video submission, or remote video performance), in order to complete the events.

3.1.5

The timetable for each competition will be arranged by the Association. Grouping and performance order will be randomly assigned. Participants must report to the check-in counter according to the time stated in the “Competition Notification Letter.” Participants who fail to check in within 15 minutes after their scheduled check-in time will only receive comments, not scores or certificates. Participants who fail to check in within 30 minutes will be disqualified.

3.1.6

If a participant or group is unable to attend at the assigned time due to reasonable and justifiable reasons, they may apply for a schedule change before the designated deadline. Please refer to the “Competition Time Change Rules and Procedures” for the application process. All applications will be considered based on scheduling feasibility and final decisions rest solely with the Association. Applicants shall not dispute the results. The Association reserves the final right over all scheduling decisions.

3.1.8

After check-in, participants should remain in the venue while waiting for their turn. If the assistant calls the participant to perform and receives no response, the Association reserves the right to disqualify the participant.

3.1.9

Participants must bring the following valid documents for identity verification. Failure to present such documents during their assigned timeslot will result in receiving comments only—no score, no certificate.

3.1.10

Participants must bring and present all required documents listed in the “Competition Notification Letter,” including original or copy of music scores, proof of identity, etc.

3.1.11

Judges reserve the right to stop a performance if sufficient material has been heard for scoring. The score will not be affected by early termination.

3.1.12

Before and during the competition, no one (including participants, parents, and teachers) is allowed to approach the judges. For any inquiries, please contact the on-site competition assistant. Violators may be disqualified or asked to leave.

3.1.13

No amplification devices, electronic instruments, synthesizers, or AV equipment are allowed during the competition (except for designated categories). Power outlets will not be provided.

3.1.14

The competition venue will only provide a piano and a music stand. All other instruments must be brought and arranged by the participants.

3.1.16

All performances and accompaniments must be presented live (except for designated categories).

3.2

Competition Repertoire

3.2.1

Participants who use photocopied music scores without permission and infringe copyright laws will be disqualified.

3.2.2

All categories involving “self-selected repertoire” must be performed within the designated time limit. Please refer to the “Self-selected Repertoire Guidelines” for details and time limits.

3.2.3

For solo categories, timing begins when the participant steps on stage and the judge signals with a bell. When time is up, a bell will signal again and the participant must stop immediately.

For ensemble categories, timing begins when the team is announced to prepare (including stage setup). When time is up, the bell will signal and the team must stop immediately. This will not affect the adjudicator’s scoring.

3.2.4

If the performed piece is not within the competition's accepted repertoire, the adjudicator reserves the right to withhold a score.

3.2.5

At check-in, participants must submit a copy of the performance piece’s music score to the assistant, who will pass it to the adjudicator. If the piece includes accompaniment, the accompaniment score must also be submitted. The Association reserves the right to retain the submitted copies for record purposes. Failure to provide scores may affect the judge’s scoring.

3.2.6

Participants should perform according to the specified requirements of the music score. If any adaptations are made, it is at the adjudicator’s discretion whether such changes affect the quality of performance.

3.2.7

If the selected piece includes accompaniment, the participant is responsible for arranging their own accompanist. Accompaniment is considered an integral part of the performance and its quality will influence the overall evaluation.

3.3

Specific Rules for Certain Categories

3.3.1

All Ensemble Categories

No rehearsal will be provided. All members must go on stage together at the start of the performance. The total number of participants must not exceed the limit for each category, including accompanists. The participant limits are listed in the "Competition Categories and Fees" table.

3.3.2

Ensemble Member Certificates

3.3.2.1

3.3.3

Ensemble Member Lists and Attendance Reporting

3.3.3.1

Participant lists are not required this year. However, the number of attendees must be confirmed via the online registration system. If the actual number on the competition day differs from the submitted number, venue staff may deny entry.

3.3.4

Certificate Application for Ensemble Teams

3.3.4.1

Members who wish to apply for certificates must submit a “Certificate Application List” through their organization before the deadline. Fees apply as per the "Additional Administrative Fee Table". This application is optional.

3.3.4.2

Applications must be submitted via the online membership system. Late submissions or submissions via other methods will not be accepted.

3.3.4.3

Any changes must be made in the system before the deadline. All certificates will be printed based on the system records. Late changes will not be processed.

3.3.4.4

Certificates will be printed as per submitted information. The Association will not make any amendments. Errors in printed certificates will not be reissued or corrected.

3.3.5

Small Ensemble (10–19 members) & Group Ensemble (Choirs, Handbell Teams, Orchestras, etc.)

3.3.5.1

Except for the conductor, all performing members must be students currently enrolled at the same school. Inter-school orchestras are not accepted. Identity checks may be performed.

3.3.5.2

For band, string, full orchestra, and e-Orchestra categories, seating and music stand positions will be pre-arranged and fixed on stage (see "Orchestra Seating Plan"). Teams may adjust arrangements but must not move any surplus chairs or stands.

3.3.6

Ensemble (2–9 members) – School Registration

3.3.6.1

All performers (except conductors) must be from the same school. Inter-school teams will not be accepted. ID verification may be required.

3.3.7

Ensemble (2–9 members) – Open Registration (Training Centre, Music Shop, Tutor)

3.3.7.1

Members may be freely combined for teams registered by training centers, music shops, or tutors.

3.3.7.2

Certificate applications must be submitted by the contact person via the online registration system before the deadline.

3.3.7.3

Teams may apply for extra trophies/plaques during registration. The number cannot exceed the number of team members. Extra trophy/award fees apply (see "Additional Administrative Fee Table").

3.3.8

Music Composition Group

3.3.8.1

Annual theme and details are listed in the"Composition Rules and Guidelines".

3.3.8.2

Submissions must be sent before the date listed on the notification letter.

3.3.8.3

Submissions must include audio files and scores. (Scores not required for electronic music category.)

3.3.8.4

Audio files must be in MP3 or MIDI format. File name must match the participant number. Unplayable files will not be scored.

3.3.8.5

Scores must be printed or handwritten in A4 size, single-sided, in standard notation with an attached “Work Description”, and participant number at the top-right corner of each page.

3.3.8.6

The Association reserves the right to publish and use all submitted works without additional notice.

3.4

Venue Rules

3.4.1

Entry Rules

3.4.1.1

Seating is prioritized for performers. If seats are limited, accompanying teachers or parents may not be allowed to enter.

3.4.1.2

If sessions are divided by time slots, only performers and their guardians for that slot may enter and must leave after it ends.

3.4.1.3

Non-participating children under 3 years old are not allowed in.

3.4.1.4

Assistants may make final arrangements based on venue capacity or adjudicator requests.

3.4.2

No practice is allowed outside designated areas or at any competition venue.

3.4.3

No venue equipment may be moved.

3.4.4

Unless specified, venues provide no equipment, props, backdrops, or power. Each venue only offers a piano, music stand, and piano stool.

3.4.5

All instruments and belongings must be managed and moved by the participants. Staff are not responsible for helping. Any assistance given is voluntary. The Association is not liable for any damage or loss.

3.4.6

Anyone causing a disturbance, including participants, may be removed or disqualified.

3.4.7

No communication devices may be used inside the venue.

3.4.8

No audio or video recording is allowed during any part of the competition (including adjudication or results). Photography is allowed if it does not disturb others and no flash is used. Violators may be removed.

3.4.9

All attendees are responsible for their own personal belongings. The Association is not liable for any loss.

3.4.10

All attendees are responsible for their own safety. The Association is not liable for any injury.

3.4.11

No parking will be provided at any competition venue.

3.4.12

All venue rules are based on terms set by the venue provider. Any violations may affect competition eligibility.

4

Judging Criteria

Judges will evaluate participants based on overall performance, including:

• Difficulty of the chosen piece

• Technique – tone quality, intonation, rhythm, etc.

• Interpretation – stylistic accuracy, creativity, etc.

• Musicality of the performer

• Expression and ability to connect with the audience

Judges have the final authority on all artistic matters.

5

Awards and Scoring

5.1

Participants in live competitions will receive their score sheets after the competition. If not collected on-site, the score sheet will be distributed together with the awards and certificates. Participants bear the responsibility for any loss of score sheets.
For video submission competitions, score sheets will be distributed with the awards and certificates.

5.2

Each category offers Gold, Silver, Bronze, and Merit Awards. There is no limit to the number of awards granted.

5.2.1

Awards will be granted based on the following scores:

Gold Award

90 marks or above

Silver Award

80 – 89 marks

70 – 79 marks

Merit Award

60 marks or above

Live Competitions

• For "Group Ensemble" events, teams receiving a score of 69 marks or below will have their results reviewed by the Judging Committee. If any adjustments are made, the participating school will be notified individually.
• For "Small Group Ensemble (10–19 members)" and "Ensemble (2–9 members)" events, if 20% or more of the teams in the same session receive 69 marks or below, the results of those teams in the same session will be reviewed by the Judging Committee. If any adjustments are made, the participating units will be notified individually.
• For "Solo" events, if 30% or more of the participants in the same session receive 69 marks or below, their results will be reviewed by the Judging Committee. If any adjustments are made, the participating units will be notified individually.

Video Submission Competitions

• For "Group Ensemble" events, teams receiving a score of 69 marks or below will have their results reviewed by the Judging Committee. If any adjustments are made, the participating school will be notified individually.
• For "Small Group Ensemble (10–19 members)" and "Ensemble (2–9 members)" events, if 20% or more of the teams in the same category receive 69 marks or below, the results of those teams in the same category will be reviewed by the Judging Committee. If any adjustments are made, the participating units will be notified individually.
• For "Solo" events, if 30% or more of the participants in the same category receive 69 marks or below, their results will be reviewed by the Judging Committee. If any adjustments are made, the participating units will be notified individually.

If no changes are made to the results after review, no further notification will be provided by the organizer.

5.2.3

Individual category winners of Gold, Silver, or Bronze Awards will receive one trophy and one certificate.

Merit Award recipients will receive one certificate.

Participants who complete the competition but do not reach award level will receive a participation certificate.

5.2.4

For ensemble and group categories:

Gold, Silver, and Bronze Award-winning teams will receive one trophy per team.

Merit Award-winning teams will receive one certificate.

Ensemble members may apply for an individual award certificate via the registration system through their registering unit.

Applications must be submitted before the "designated deadline" for ensemble certificate applications.

A certificate administration fee will apply to non-student members. (Refer to the "Additional Administrative Fee Table".)

5.2.5

Participants nominated by a member and awarded five or more Gold Awards in this competition will earn the “Outstanding Music Training Award” for the recommending member, who will receive a trophy/plaque.

5.3

Distribution of Awards

5.3.1

All trophies and certificates can be collected in person or by mail, as indicated during registration.

5.3.2

If no contact method is specified or if contact details are unclear, all relevant notices and awards will be sent to the registered school for handling.

5.3.3

Awards will be ready for distribution no less than one month after the final competition date of the year. The distribution date and details will be announced on the Association’s website.

5.3.4

If any issue arises after receiving the awards or certificates, please report via email before August 31. Late requests will not be handled.

5.4

Awards for in-person collection must be claimed within the period stated in the award notification. Any unclaimed trophies or certificates after the deadline will be handled at the sole discretion of the Association without further notice.

5.5

Any modification to certificates, if accepted, will incur a handling fee.

5.6

Once an award or certificate is collected or signed for, any damage or loss will not be reissued or replaced.

6

Other Important Notes

6.1

The adjudicators have the final authority on all artistic matters. In cases where any situation is not clearly covered by this competition’s regulations, or for any administrative or competition-related matters, the final interpretation shall rest with the Executive Committee of the Association.

6.2

All changes or cancellations regarding competitions or events will be announced on the Association’s website or notified via email to the participants. No separate notification will be issued. For arrangements due to infectious diseases or suspension of classes caused by adverse weather, please refer to the relevant guidelines on the Association’s website.

6.3

Any individual infected with an infectious disease is strictly prohibited from attending the competition or related events.

6.4

Participants’ personal photos, competition data (name, school, participant number, etc.), or award-related information may be uploaded to the Hong Kong Joint School Music Association’s website or promotional materials for publicity purposes. The Association is not required to notify the participants or their families in advance and is not obligated to provide any form of remuneration.

6.5

All recording, audio, and photographic copyrights related to the competition and performances are the sole property of the Hong Kong Joint School Music Association. Participants have no right to dispute this.

7

Enquiries and Feedback

7.1

For enquiries, complaints, or suggestions, the registered member responsible for the application must submit them in writing on or before the final competition date of the current year. All correspondence will be handled after the conclusion of the competition. The member will receive a written reply regarding the follow-up outcome.

For school members submitting feedback, the correspondence must:

(i)

Be signed by the principal or the teacher-in-charge;

(ii)

Include the school’s official stamp; and

(iii)

Provide the member number and contact address.

Submissions that do not meet the above requirements will not receive a response. Telephone enquiries will not be entertained.

7.2

All information regarding the competition has been uploaded to the Association’s website. Due to the high volume of calls during the competition period, members are advised to check the website first for necessary information.

7.3

All rules and regulations regarding the competition shall be based solely on the announcements made on the Association’s website.