| Lyrics | 30 points |
| Music | 30 points |
| Performance | 30 points |
| Originality | 10 points |
| GRAND TOTAL | 100 POINTS |
LYRICS – 30 Points:
Lyrics are divided into four categories:
A. Expression of Theme: – 5 points
i. The calypso has a distinct, recognizable theme.
ii. The words develop and support the theme of the calypso.
iii. The verses are linked to the theme and are not scattered throughout the calypso.
iv. The verses flow logically into the chorus and reinforce the theme and meaning of the calypso.
B. Word Craft: -10 points
i. The use of the appropriate choice of words. They flow smoothly and comfortably.
ii. The effective use of literary devices in the calypso. These include satire, subtlety, double entendre, irony, wit, humor, and puns.
iii. The style and skill of the composition used in the calypso.
iv. The quality and the style of the rhyming scheme used in the calypso are as follows:
C. Lyrical Fit: -10 points
i. The marriage of the lyrics and the melody/arrangement of the calypso.
ii. The words of the calypso complement each other smoothly and comfortably.
iii. The calypso is not crowded with words to prevent the singer from comfortably fitting them into the music.
iv. The lyrics of the calypso flow smoothly along with the arrangement.
D. Creativity: – -5 points
i. The topic of the calypso has a particularly fascinating interpretation.
ii. The effective incorporation of local color/experiences throughout the calypso.
MUSIC – 30 Points:
Music is divided into two categories:
A. Melody: -15 points
i. The catchiness and sweetness of the melodic lines in the verse, the chorus, and the band chorus of the calypso.
ii. The innovativeness of the melody to effectively carry the message of the calypso.
iii. The melody captures the mood and theme of the calypso.
B. Arrangement: – 15 points
i. The arrangement improves the calypso’s fundamental rhythmic structure and enhances the use of instruments.
ii. The arrangement suits the mood and the tempo of the calypso.
iii. The effectiveness of the backup vocals in the calypso.
iv. The key of the calypso carries the singer’s voice and melody accurately.
v. The innovative use of particular instruments to create and convey the mood of the calypso.
vi. The calypso has the proper key to complement the orchestration.
PERFORMANCE – 30 points:
Performance is divided into three categories:
A. Rendition: – 15 points
i. The calypsonian’s intonation, timing, pronunciation, and conviction are clear.
ii. The effective use of the voice (tone, volume, use of head and chest voice) to perform the calypso.
iii. The use of the correct pitch throughout the performance of the calypso.
iv. The manner of singing is in keeping with the mood of the calypso.
v. The song is performed in calypso style.
B. Presentation: -10 points
i. The body language expresses the message and mood of the calypso.
ii. The effective use of the stage is in line with the mood and message of the calypso.
iii. Proper use of a microphone to effectively project the voice.
iv. The consistency of the attire to the meaning and portrayal of the calypso.
C. Demonstration: – 5 points
i. The calypso performance was impressively presented through props, costumes, LED screens, stagehands, and dancers.
ii. The consistency of the attire matches the meaning and portrayal of the calypso.
ORIGINALITY – 10 Points:
Originality is divided into two categories.
A. Melody: – 5 points
i. The arrangement and melody of the calypso are uniquely fresh and original.
ii. The music of other artists is absent in the calypso.
iii. The presence of novel musical ideas in the calypso’s arrangement or melody.
B. Topic: – 5 points
i. The topic of the calypso is novel and original and has yet to be previously explored.
ii. The calypso is markedly different from previously performed calypsos.
iii. The calypso introduces fresh perspectives on a familiar subject.
