Judging, like any other art form, requires a great deal of knowledge and know-how.  Prior to discussing the art of judging, judges just as performers don’t always make great instructors, all instructors/directors don't always make quality judges. That being said, anyone with a strong pageantry acumen who wishes to take the time to further develop their assessment skills can mature into the realm of adjudication and become an excellent judge.

To begin, one must first decide on the best possible caption to make their adjudication debut. Typically, one already knows the direction that best suits he or she’s skill set, which invoked the initial desire to venture across to the dark side of the activity.

Upon selecting your caption(s), you must study your caption’s criterion sheets to ensure total comprehension of the sub-caption areas to avoid cross captioning when making voice recordings or discussing performances in critique.  Many first time judges simply will show up for a notch on the ole' résumé and be able to say, "I've judged before."  This attitude towards adjudication creates a poor experience for performers, contest hosts, and fellow adjudicators. 

Once a judge understands the caption and feels comfortable with the sub-caption elements, he/she will then begin studying the scoring system for the caption as well as the show.  Outdoor scoring system can very from state to state, but indoor systems typically remain the same.  Although headlining circuit Winter Guard International recently changed the percussion point system, most local circuits have already adopted the new system for the 2009 season and are receiving positive feedback regarding the update.

Being able to recognize elements and rewarding groups appropriately is the primary responsibility of adjudicators. Judges are accountable to every unit, all performers, systems, and philosophies to ensure the integrity of adjudication remains sanctified. Judges are required to check egos at the door and leave emotions out of the equation when evaluating units.  This must be done to protect the candor and probity of the entire adjudication family.

How do I get judging gigs?

Currently, judging gigs are received by invitation only.  Many of these judges are very qualified, but there are still several in the field who have very little training and awareness of up-and-coming styles, techniques, and musical innovations.  The Southeastern Judging Association (SEJA) is working to remedy this approach through a three-step process.

• The first phase of SEJA is to obtain a strong membership base
  • This will be an ongoing process which will be examined and enhanced throughout the months/years
  • SEJA will then provide training articles, seminars, and networking opportunities to members
• Secondly, the members' names will be available for public use
  • The website will of course be ever-evolving and the membership information will be on a year-to-year membership agreement
  • This phase will overlap phase one and will be automatically available upon membership approval
• Lastly, e-mail communications will to be forward periodically to contest directors across the Southeast regarding SEJA members and their qualifications; this will further market the knowledge, training, professionalism, quality, and availability of said members

So, to answer the question...The first step to becoming a judge is to join a judging association such as SEJA.  From that point, you control your potential and have the means to become an educated adjudicator.

If you have further questions regarding this information or simply wish to obtain more information, click the contact link at the top of the page to send over a direct e-mail.

Members, you are welcome to converse on the forum, use the online private message system, or SEJA Chat if you need further clarification or assistance.