Ottawa Fiddle and Stepdance Competition Rules
First to register, last to perform.
- When a class has begun on stage, registration for the next class is ended. Contestants must be ready to perform when called.
- Fiddle classes will be allowed one accompanist only. Dancers will be allowed one fiddler and one Accompanist only.
- Fiddlers will be judged on intonation, timing, tone, technique and overall accuracy. Dancers will be judged on variety and quality of steps, timing and showpersonship. Choreography and precision of movement will be judged for group classes.
- **NEW CLASS** Performance Showcase Class. The performance class is for fiddlers and dancers who wish to be on stage without competing. Judges will not score the performers but will provide comments. This class is intended for those with little or no competition experience or those who wish to perform their abilities without the elements of judging . Fiddlers may perform up to two tunes and dancers may perform a clog, jig or reel. There are limited spots available so please register early. If you have any questions regarding your registration please reach out to us to have your questions answered. We encourage performers to capture the spirit of the Ottawa Valley, Canadian or Traditional Music, storytelling, singing or performing when choosing their pieces but there are no restrictions.
- Contestants in the 19-49 and 50&Over step dancing classes will dance either a clog, a jig or a reel.
- The Twin Fiddle Class must play two contrasting tunes of their choice.
- Group dance classes dance a routine of their choice, not necessarily a clog, jig, and reel. It must not exceed 5 minutes. A Group consists of 2 to 5 members. Group dance categories are decided by averaging the age of the members. If the average age of the group is under 13 then it is considered a Junior Group. If the average age of the group is greater than or equal to 13 then it is considered a Senior Group. Two or more dancers make a group. No dancer may compete in more than one group.
- All contestants in the 15&Under, 18&Under, and Open dance classes will dance a clog, jig and reel, in that order. In the event of a tie, dancers will be called back to dance a full routine: clog, jig and reel.
- All contestants in 12&Under, 15&Under, 18&Under, 19-49, 50&over and Open fiddle classes will play a waltz, jig and reel, in that order. Fiddlers who tie, will be asked to play a full set: waltz, jig and reel.
- The 9&Under fiddle category will play a tune of their choice. 9&Under dancers will dance a reel or tune of choice.
- 12 &Under dancers will dance a reel only
- Any contestant or group that has won first place in any one class for three consecutive years will not be able to compete in that or any other lower class the fourth year
- Should an accident or incident occur beyond a contestant’s control, the contestant (or group) will be permitted to begin the entire performance again.
- Contestants may enter one solo Fiddle Class, one solo Step Dance class, one duet Fiddle Class, and one Group Step Dance class
- All competing fiddlers will be allowed the choice of either a piano or guitar for accompaniment. The accompanist will not be allowed to play the melody while the fiddler competes. A standby piano accompanist will be available.
- Contestants in all of the dance classes must use a fiddler with either a piano or guitar as accompaniment. A house fiddler and pianist will be available.
- Score sheets will be distributed during the contest.
- All house plaques will remain with the committee.
All judges decisions are final.
Have Fun! Enjoy the event!