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South Plains College GrooveDay Contest Instructions

Each contestant must play the five compulsory grooves using the exact tempos. After completing the five compulsory grooves, each contestant will play one groove of their choice in any style or tempo.

Gear provided

(The set cannot be changed aside from minor height or distance adjustments.)

• 5-piece drum set
• 2 crash cymbals
• 1 ride cymbal
• 1 set of hi-hats
• Single bass drum pedal
• Isolation headphones for click track
• Sticks – You may use your sticks. You cannot use any personal drums, hardware, or sound reinforcement.

Performance instructions

1. When a contestant is called, they will have 30 seconds to make minor adjustments to the drums.
2. The contestant will then get 15 seconds to adjust the click volume in their headphones.
3. The first groove will be counted, and the contestant will play it with a click track for approximately 15 seconds.
4. After the first groove ends, there will be 8 seconds of silence before the second groove is counted in, which the contestant will play with a click track for approximately 15 seconds.
5. The same procedure will continue until all five compulsory grooves are completed.
6. The contestant will then have 15 seconds to play their groove of choice before exiting the stage for the next contestant.

Judging Criteria

1. Ability to play the notated groove correctly.
2. Ability to lock into the groove instantly.
3. Ability to play consistent time with the click and maintain a great feel.
4. Ability to play the grooves with stylistic authenticity.
5. Backbeat volume, placement, and sound consistency.
6. Tempo, feel, and creativity of the personally chosen groove.
7. Ability to adapt quickly to a backline-provided drum set and monitor system.