What Do Eisteddfod Adjudicators Really Look For?

Is it the highest note? The biggest voice? The most difficult song?

One of the biggest misconceptions about vocal eisteddfods is that the performer with the most powerful voice automatically delivers the strongest performance.

But great vocal artistry is so much more than that.

At Elevate Eisteddfod, our adjudicators are industry professionals who understand that a memorable performance is a combination of technique, musicality, creativity and connection.

So, what should you actually be focusing on?

1. Vocal Technique: It's About Control, Not Just Power

A strong vocal performance begins with healthy, reliable technique.

Adjudicators listen for qualities including pitch accuracy, breath control, vocal tone, consistency and the ability to navigate a song confidently.

But here's the important part: bigger isn't always better.

A beautifully controlled, intimate performance can be just as impressive as a powerful vocal showcase.

Focus on using your voice effectively rather than trying to prove how loudly or how high you can sing.

2. Musicality: Making the Music Your Own

Musicality is the difference between simply singing the correct notes and truly bringing a song to life.

Think about your phrasing, dynamics, rhythm and how you shape the musical journey.

Are you creating contrast? Are you allowing the music to breathe?

Small, thoughtful musical choices can make an enormous difference.

3. Emotional Connection: Tell Us Something

One of the most powerful things a singer can do is make an audience feel something.

You don't need to have personally experienced everything described in a song, but you should understand the story you're telling.

Ask yourself:

• What is this song really about?

• Who am I singing to?

• What do I want my audience to feel?

When a performer genuinely connects with their material, the audience can sense it.

4. Stage Presence: Own Your Space

Stage presence doesn't necessarily mean choreography, dramatic gestures or constant movement.

Sometimes standing completely still can be the strongest artistic choice.

It's about intention, confidence, audience connection and how comfortably you communicate on stage.

Your body language should support your performance rather than distract from it.

5. Authenticity: Show Us Who YOU Are

This might be one of the most important qualities of all.

Don't get so caught up trying to sound like the original artist that you forget to explore your own musical identity.

Your individuality is what makes you interesting.

At Elevate, we celebrate performers who bring their unique interpretation, personality and artistry to the stage.

Remember: Feedback Is an Opportunity

Our approach isn't about simply ranking performers from first to last.

It's about recognising strengths, identifying opportunities for improvement and encouraging every artist to continue developing.

The goal isn't to walk off stage believing you have nothing left to learn.

It's to walk away inspired by what you could achieve next.

Ready to showcase your artistry?

Join us at Elevate Eisteddfod on 3 or 10 April 2027 and discover what makes our performer-focused experience different.