The Bands of America adjudication system is a criteria reference system, in which a band showing proficiency in particular criteria, or meeting certain criteria at a certain level, falls within a scoring range. It is the position of Bands of America that music is the more important aspect of the performance, with marching as the presentation and visual enhancement of the program. Similarly, more emphasis has been placed on the effectiveness of the general effect judges than on fine-line perfection of the performance judges. The weight of the numbers places 60% of the value on music and 40% on visual, as well as 60% on general effect and 40% on performance. Each judge is assigned a specific area on which he or she focuses, ensemble and general effect judges are located at a vantage point from above (i.e. press box), individual performance judges are located on the field.

The Bands of America Official Procedures and Adjudication Handbook and can be accessed at the link below. The handbook contains three parts: the Bands of America Championships Procedures, Official Performance Procedures, and the Adjudication Handbook. Samples of scoresheets and judging criteria are located in the appendix. 

Bands of America (BOA) Marching Band Championships have been setting the standard for marching arts excellence since 1975. Judging for BOA is both a challenging and rewarding experience, where those involved are committed to providing participants with a positively life-changing experience. We strive to provide the best assessment for our participant marching bands through a comprehensive vetting and education process for all prospective judging candidates. Learn more about becoming an adjudicator with Bands of America below.