Story-Singing Rules and Judging Guidelines

Story-Singing Rules & Judging Guidelines

Download Story Singing Rules and Guidelines for 2012 (PDF)

1.0 What is Story-Singing?

1.1 Schools must record an original song (max 5 minutes in length) that tells a story and upload it to the Wakakirri website. The song can be written by the students, or by teachers. Schools may also elect to create an optional video clip for their song.

2.0 What stories can you tell?

2.1   Schools can tell any story they wish. That story could be an adaptation or interpretation of an existing story (such as a picture book, movie or novel), or it could be a completely original story. The important thing is there is a clear narrative to your story rather than just a theme with loosely linked scenes. You can find more information about story structure in the Resources section of the website.
2.2   Wakakirri requires schools to gain permission and take special consideration when interpreting Indigenous stories or portraying Indigenous individuals or images
2.3   Each year Wakakirri has a different signature item. Schools are encouraged to incorporate this item into their Wakakirri entry in a creative way. PLEASE NOTE: this is not compulsory and you will not be judged down if you do not incorporate the signature item, having said that, it is always fun for the audience to spot it! There is an award for the most creative use. The 2012 signature item is TWELVE.

3.0 Why are stories important?

3.1 Stories are a great way for students to learn about themselves and others. Stories have wide reach and they can convey important messages. Most importantly a good story stays with you for life.

4.0 Who will hear our story?

4.1 Wakakirri helps schools share their story nationally. Every school has the opportunity to exhibit their story on the Wakakirri website, where it can be heard/viewed by the thousands of participating students across the country.

5.0 Important Story-Singing Dates

5.1 Register your interest ASAP to receive an information pack and email updates.
5.2 Schools must upload their song and send in their paperwork by Friday, 3rd of August, 2012.

6.0 General Story-Singing Rules

6.1   A maximum of three entries per school
6.2   Story-Singing is free to enter.
6.3   Students must enter an original song (this means writing the music and the lyrics however you can retell an existing story). Music and lyrics can be written by the students, teachers, or parents.
6.4   Songs must be G rated
6.5   There is no limit on the number of singers
6.6   Participating students must complete Publicity Consent Forms that are then retained at the school.
6.7   Songs must be a maximum of 5 minutes in length.

7.0 Additional Information

7.1 Schools have the option of creating their own music video to accompany their song. NOTE: creating a music video clip is a fun extra activity, but will not be considered in the judging of the Story-Singing entries. Video clips can be uploaded to the website as Quicktime, MP4 or AVI files.
7.2 For schools without recording equipment, we encourage you to approach local radio stations who have the facilities to record your songs.

Judging Overview

A panel of judges will be selected to assess the Story-Singing entries according to the judging criteria. Wakakirri Judges are sourced from both the public and private education sectors as well as the entertainment/ performing arts industries reflecting a balance in skills and areas of expertise.

Songs will be judged after entries close and National Winners will be selected and announced in November. Depending on the number of entries, there may also be state winners announced. A list of shortlisted schools will be announced in September.