Frequently Asked Questions

Elevate Eisteddfod is a celebration of vocal talent where performers of all ages and skill levels can showcase their abilities, receive feedback, and be recognized for their artistry. We focus on personal growth and excellence rather than ranking participants.

Performers based in the Sydney metropolitan and Northern Beaches areas are welcome to participate. We have categories for a wide range of age groups and vocal genres.

We welcome volunteers to help with event coordination. If you're interested in joining our team, visit our Volunteer Page for more information on how to get involved.

At Elevate Eisteddfod, we believe that the true essence of performance lies in personal growth and self-expression, rather than competition against others. Instead of ranking performers with first, second, and third place, we focus on celebrating individual achievements and unique talents. Our awards are designed to highlight excellence in specific aspects of performance, such as Outstanding Performance, Vocal Technique, and Stage Presence, recognizing that each performer has their own strengths and journey. We believe that the competition should be against oneself—striving to improve and push boundaries, rather than comparing to others. This approach fosters a positive, supportive environment where all performers are encouraged to grow, express themselves freely, and enjoy the experience of being celebrated for their craft.

As Elevate Eisteddfod is in its inaugural year, we are currently focusing on vocal performances. However, we have every intention to expand the event in the future to include categories for instrumentalists, dancers, and actors. Our goal is to create a comprehensive platform that celebrates all forms of artistic expression, and we look forward to welcoming a broader range of performers as the event grows!

Registration is simple! Just visit our Registration Page, choose your category, and complete the online form. You can also pre-register if you're unsure of the event dates.

Yes! You can enter multiple categories, but each category requires a separate registration.

A: Once a song has been submitted, it cannot be changed, except in the case of a "doubling." If a performer within your category has already selected the same song, and it's based on a first-come, first-served system, you will be contacted and asked to select a different song. However, you are welcome to submit a different song for each category you enter.

Yes, there is a registration fee for each category entered. Fees help cover the costs of the event, including prizes, awards, and operational expenses. For full details, please refer to our Registration Page (Coming in 2025).

Yes, we offer the Artists Choice category for duets and groups, where performers can choose any song or style that best showcases their talent.

Yes, performers need to arrange their own backing tracks. Please make sure they are high-quality audio files. Backing tracks with backing vocals are allowed, but no ghosting of lead vocals is permitted. Once backing tracks are submitted through our registration form, they are final unless multiplications of the same song are sung. In this case, songs will be taken on a first-in-first-serve basis.

The Elevate Eisteddfod offers a range of age divisions and categories designed to highlight the talent of performers at various stages in their musical journey: Age Divisions: Ages 10 & Under Ages 11-14 Ages 15-18 Ages 19+ Ages 40+ Categories: Contemporary Performance – For performers showcasing modern and current vocal styles. R&B/Blues/Jazz – For those bringing soul and rhythm to their performances in these genres. Artists Choice/Wildcard – A flexible category for performers choosing their own genre and performance style, including duets and groups. These divisions and categories are designed to ensure a fair, inspiring environment where every performer can shine in their unique way.

Absolutely! The Elevate Eisteddfod welcomes participants from all locations. However, please note that the eisteddfods are based in Sydney, so you’ll need to plan for travel and accommodation if participating in person. Additionally, if you are selected for the Most Outstanding Performance in your category, you’ll also need to arrange travel and accommodation for rehearsals and the VIP Showcase on show day. We can’t wait to see the incredible talent from across Australia and beyond shine on our stage!

Contemporary Performance: You can choose a song from modern pop, rock, or musical theatre. Just ensure the song reflects contemporary styles and techniques, like those you might hear on the radio or in recent stage productions. R&B/Jazz/Blues: You can choose a classic or contemporary song in the R&B, jazz, or blues genres. Some good options include soulful ballads, jazz standards, or modern R&B hits. It's about showcasing your vocal control, tone, and emotional connection to the music. Artist’s Choice: This category often allows you to pick a song that best showcases your vocal abilities and personality. You could choose something from any genre that is outside of the other two categories.

A: An audition is not required to enter Elevate Eisteddfod. The event is open to singers of all ages ranging from 10 and under to 40 and over with multiple categories to choose from. It’s a great opportunity to perform alongside like-minded people, challenge yourself, and grow through valuable performance experience and feedback.

We focus on recognizing outstanding performances based on creativity, technique, stage presence, vocal ability, and emotional connection. We do not rank participants but celebrate the unique talent of each performer through awards like Most Outstanding Performance, Best Artistic Interpretation, and Audience Choice Award.

Our Evaluators provide written feedback for each performer, focusing on areas like technique, expression, stage presence, and overall performance. We encourage all performers to embrace this constructive feedback to help grow their craft.

Audience members can vote for their favorite performance via a QR code, which will be available at the event. Voting will be based on the performance's overall impact and engagement.

Yes! After the Elevate Eisteddfod, performers selected for the Most Outstanding Performance Award will be invited to an exclusive showcase event. This opportunity allows them to rehearse and perform with a live band of industry professional musicians in front of a live audience. The event also includes a dinner and show to celebrate their achievements. Additionally, award winners can extend their learning with discounts on courses at Rise Academy of Music and take advantage of special offers for professional photography and videography services to enhance their portfolios.

Most Outstanding Performance – Awarded to the performer who delivers a standout performance, showcasing a combination of technical excellence, emotional depth, and strong stagecraft. Vocal Artistry – Recognizes a performer’s ability to express emotion, musicality, and storytelling through their voice. While good vocal technique is important, this award focuses more on artistic interpretation rather than technical perfection. Stage Presence – Given to the performer who captivates the audience with confidence, charisma, and strong engagement throughout their performance. Audience Choice Award – Determined by audience votes, this award goes to the performer who leaves the biggest impression on the crowd. Voters are encouraged to base their choice on overall performance impact rather than personal connections or bias. Rising Star Award (14 & Under Division Only) – Celebrates a young performer with exceptional promise, demonstrating talent and growth potential. Creative Spirit Award – Honors a performer who brings originality, creativity, and a unique artistic vision to their performance. Artistic Merit Award (Artist's Choice Category Only) – Awarded to the performer who exhibits a deep artistic connection to their piece, displaying both skill and interpretative excellence.

Unfortunately, tickets are non-refundable upon purchase. Ticket fees go towards supporting the event and future Eisteddfods.

Event dates are announced as soon as possible, and we recommend pre-registering for updates. The exact dates will depend on the availability of venues and performers, so stay tuned!

Be sure to follow us on social media @elevateeisteddfod, sign up for updates, or contact us for more details. Stay informed about upcoming events, performance opportunities, and registration deadlines!

Your entrant fees and audience tickets help create a professional and high-quality event experience. They cover high-quality audio and visual production, custom-designed trophies, APRA licensing fees, administration, and the expertise of our adjudicator and staff. On the day, a professional videographer and photographer will capture the event, with performances being featured on social media and available for purchase by families. A media and photo wall will also allow participants to take memorable pre-performance photos. Spectators can enjoy live entertainment, grab a drink at the bar, or dine at the bistro, all while we ensure every detail elevates the performance and viewer experience to a professional standard.