Terms & Conditions

Last updated: 13 May 2025

By entering the SA Music Fest, all participants (or their legal guardians where applicable) agree to the following Terms and Conditions:

1. Eligibility

  • The SA Music Fest is open to amateur musicians only. Entrants must not earn a significant income from musical performance or teaching in their category of entry.

  • The festival welcomes participants aged 6–18 in the school-age categories and adults in the Open Category.

  • All participant information submitted must be accurate and truthful.

2. Entry Process

  • All entries must be submitted via the official online entry system.

  • Multiple entries per participant may be submitted in one session and will be paid for and processed together.

  • When entering multiple individuals, each participant must have a separate entry form completed, but they may all be paid for in one combined transaction.

  • A non-refundable entry fee must be paid in full by the official closing date.

  • Entries will not be accepted after the published deadline unless the festival grants an extension.

3. Performance Rules

  • Participants must perform the items listed on their entry forms. Substitutions may only be permitted at the discretion of the festival organizers.

  • Performers of instrumental music where sheet music is available must provide a copy for the adjudicators at the class.

  • All performances must reflect the individual efforts of the participant, with appropriate credit given for collaborative or ensemble work. This is not a composition competition, and original works are not a requirement unless entered in a designated category.

  • Appropriate attire and conduct are expected during all performances.

4. Adjudication

  • Adjudicators are appointed based on their professional expertise.

  • Adjudicators may not adjudicate their own current students in any class where a conflict of interest exists.

  • All decisions by the adjudicators are final and may not be appealed.

  • Where possible, constructive feedback will be provided for each performance.

5. Recording & Media

  • By entering, participants and/or guardians consent to video and audio recordings of performances.

  • All recorded material becomes the property of SA Music Fest and may be used for adjudication, marketing, archives, and future promotion.

  • No compensation will be provided for the use of media.

6. Privacy & Data

  • Personal information submitted will only be used for the administration and operation of the SA Music Fest.

  • We comply fully with POPIA (Protection of Personal Information Act) and will not sell or distribute your information to third parties without your consent.

7. Awards & Results

  • Each participant will receive their adjudication sheet and certificate at the conclusion of their performance class, based on their achievement level.

  • Platinum award certificates will be withheld for presentation at the official awards evenings.

  • All results are communicated either at the venue or through official festival channels.

8. Cancellations & Refunds

  • Entry fees are non-refundable unless the class is cancelled due to an error or issue caused by the festival.

  • If the festival cancels a class, we will first attempt to arrange an alternative class date. If no satisfactory alternative can be found, a partial or full refund may be offered at the discretion of the festival.

9. Disqualification

SA Music Fest reserves the right to disqualify any participant or revoke awards if:

  • Fraudulent or misleading information is provided.

  • There is a breach of conduct, including inappropriate behaviour by the participant or their family members.

  • Parents or guardians who behave disrespectfully toward adjudicators, staff, or other participants may also cause their child’s entry to be disqualified.

  • The rules and etiquette of the festival are not followed.

10. Liability

  • SA Music Fest takes all reasonable precautions to ensure a safe, fair, and inclusive event.

  • The festival is not liable for any personal injury, lost property, or damage incurred during participation or attendance.

  • Participation is at the entrant’s own risk.

11. Amendments

  • These Terms & Conditions may be updated from time to time. Any changes will be published on the official website.