Except that the first bands to go to SR contest are at a distinct disadvantage compared to later bands as details (and even recordings) are shared around regarding the pieces.

To say nothing of the poor quality pieces that have been written over the years that stretch the guidelines to and sometimes past the breaking point.

Still tons of "foul play" to be found in the process.

IMO the solution isn't to prevent foul play, because it can't be eliminated - it's to make the process as fair and equitable for the students as possible, and strides have been made toward that lately with the new process change, but we still have a long way to go.

SNV bands shouldn't read the same music as NV bands. Middle school bands shouldn't read the same music as high school bands. I know it makes the process more difficult - but hard things are worth doing too.

Until you get directors sitting in during other bands' performances in different regions in order to hear how it goes