The following is a list of guidelines for classifying vocal ensembles in Class A, B & C. It was dated 1987. Its age should not change the gudelines however the suggested vocal lists in class A, B & C may be showing it's age. Any imput you may have would be greatly apreciated.
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Class C
1. Selection must be performed as published.
2. Selection must have 50% or more independent parts, and may have less than 50% unison.
3. Accompaniment may double vocal parts.
4. Key changes and /or meter changes not necessary.
5. Selection will have simple rhythm patterns.
6. Music in this classification may have many repeated sections.
Class B
1. Selection must be performed as published.
2. Selection must have 75% or more independent parts and may have less than 25% unison.
3. Accompaniment should be somewhat independent.
4. Selection may have key and/or meter changes.
5. Selection will have more difficult rhythm patterns than a Class C ensemble.
6. Selection will have limited publisher-printed expression markings regarding dynamics, tempo, phrasing, etc.
Class A
1. Selection must be performed as published.
2. Selection must have multiple vocal parts independent throughout the song (one voice per part is more musically demanding than two or three voices on a part).
3. Accompaniment will be independent of vocal parts.
4. May have key changes and/or meter changes.
5. Selection should have rhythm patterns more difficult than Class B or C selections.
6. Selection will have publisher-printed expression markings throughout the selection regarding dynamics, tempo, phrasing, etc.
7. If the accompaniment is marked "for rehearsal only" the selection should be performed a cappella.
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