Read it. Yes they took out the "traditional" form of but this is essentially the same thing. To say otherwise is being pedantic. All three judges mentioned the "syncopated" rhythms. The contest host and region secretary mentioned the "syncopated" rhythm. My guess is this piece was written with e-q-e rhythm and when the criteria were revised, the rhythm was altered to "fit" the criteria. The sightreading criteria need to be more specific in regards to what is and isn't allowed. This is the reason there are so many issues with the pieces. Just like a few years ago when the level 3 started with trills ("Ascension"). Since the rules don't say there can't be trills, that meant they were fine to have. The whole "Try to avoid any device that might be viewed as a “trick”. Technically, rhythmically and harmonically, the music should be straightforward and logical." doesn't cut it. The last sentence is completely laughable when if comes to the most of the level 3s. But honestly, if the UIL music department really cared they would fix the problem. They aren't doing anyone any favors by allowing these type of pieces that would have made my composition professor in college angry (he would have kicked me out of the studio if I turned in some of the works UIL uses for SR). The sightreading music doesn't need to be an award winning composition, but shoul dbe something that shows students have basic music reading skills without having to worry about some weird tricks or traps. Heck, this year's level 3 wasn't even scored well. All three of my judges commented on the scoring and how it made it difficult for the band to balance to the melody. I could go on (all the pickup entrances, a random and unnecessary percussion break, weird intervals, etc) but makes my blood pressure rise just thinking about it.
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