Unveiling the judge's perspective
Welcome to "Don't Shoot the Band Judge!" This page is your essential guide to understanding the intricate world of marching band adjudication.
Designed for students, staff, parents, and administration alike, we pull back the curtain on what judges actually do, dispelling common myths and fostering a community of respect within the activity.
Are you curious why scores sometimes feel puzzling, or if judges truly understand the effort involved? You've come to the right place. We're here to explain the process, shed light on how judges arrive at their numbers, and transform confusion into clarity.
Your questions about band judging, answered
It's natural to have questions about the judging process, especially when scores don't align with expectations. We understand that band directors, parents, and even seasoned staff often feel a disconnect. Here, we aim to bridge that gap, providing clear, concise answers to the most common queries, helping everyone involved see the bigger picture and appreciate the dedicated work behind every score.
What's the main message of this page?
This resource aims to educate students, staff, parents, and administration about the inner workings of marching band judging. We want to demystify the process, dispel common myths, and foster respect for all involved. You'll learn what judges actually do and how scores are determined.
Do judges hate your students?
Absolutely not! A common misconception is that judges are looking for faults or have negative intentions. My approach, and that of many judges, is student-centered. We aim to provide constructive feedback that helps students and programs grow, acting as an extension of the band director's vision.
Who can benefit from understanding the judging process better?
Everyone involved in the activity can benefit! This includes band directors, band boosters, band parents, school administrators, contest organizers, and young or aspiring judges. Many people don't fully understand the judge's role or how scores are reached, and gaining this insight can enhance the entire experience.
How do judges arrive at their numbers?
Judges use specific rubrics and criteria to evaluate performances based on established standards. It's a structured process that assesses various elements of the show. We can explain these processes in detail through our learning materials and Zoom sessions, helping you understand the logic behind the scores.
Are judges searching for perfection?
While excellence is always the goal, judges are not searching for unattainable perfection. Instead, we evaluate how well a program meets the criteria for their specific performance level and design. We provide feedback to help bands improve and reach their full potential, regardless of their current standing.
What makes your judging style stand out?
My judging style is student-centered. I aim to be a "second voice" to the students, providing feedback they can directly use to improve. I see myself as an extension of the band director and staff, validating their efforts and reinforcing their teaching, ultimately helping students get from where they are to where they want to be.
What benefits do bands or organizers get when you're their judge?
When I judge, bands receive constructive, student-focused feedback that aligns with their staff's goals. Organizers get a qualified and experienced adjudicator who contributes to a fair and educational contest environment. My goal is to foster growth and positive learning experiences for all participants.
How can I learn more about the judging process?
I offer Zoom sessions for anyone interested – from band parents to staff to school administration – to understand the process, the point of it all, and why competition fuels our beloved activity. I also provide learning materials designed to make watching band contests fun and inclusive. Reach out to schedule a session!
See the man behind the curtain
Now that you've peeked behind the scenes, you understand the value of a clear, constructive, and student-centered judging approach. Chris Kilian Music is dedicated to demystifying the world of marching band and indoor contest adjudication. I am qualified and available to judge contests around the country, and to provide insightful Zoom training sessions for anyone looking to understand the process better. Let's make every contest a valuable learning experience.