In the Open Division, 8 competitors will be chosen to play in a semi-final round.

Competitors will be evaluated on their technique, musicianship, and overall presentation. Judges’ comments will not be made available to competitors. Competitors are encouraged to inquire for comments from the judges directly only after the competition has ended.

Choice of music is entirely at the discretion of the competitor. All music must be performed from memory. A competitor may perform the same or different music from round to round without penalty. It is expected that every competitor’s choice of music fits within the time allowed for each round. If a competitor exceeds the given time allotted, that competitor will be asked to stop but at no penalty to his/her evaluation.

All judges’ decisions are final.