NinSheetMusic Forums

Welcome to the 8th NSM Arrangement Contest!

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Current Announcements:

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ENTRIES:

Bloop: Forgotten Ancient Ruins (https://www.dropbox.com/sh/euz5pmuo4jlx9e2/AAAWg8dsbeWX1CYhU-Qy7gS_a?dl=0)
Dajwxp: Heroes are No Different (https://www.dropbox.com/sh/ixsln4iv8zimhpp/AACdEuhle3OGRKNCZyvNN-ina?dl=0)
Dekkadeci: Prism of Delight (https://www.dropbox.com/sh/giz2fryubiqrdok/AABGtvMYjEnA2t_mUPjTKqRQa?dl=0)
Echo: Judge, Jury, and EXEcutioner (https://www.dropbox.com/sh/70ejnvoubdea3tn/AABtJWN2wAYlnlHtCMsgWd8La?dl=0)
InsigTurtle: The Town That Once Was (https://www.dropbox.com/sh/223uacjxuwz5wmj/AAAY_At-BMaxoFZ8_KB3VmRia?dl=0)
Lkjhgfdsa_77: Mario Medley (https://www.dropbox.com/sh/jumrstz6uljl3e9/AABnTbl1USexqzotgfnoErF9a?dl=0)
Static: Secret of the Celestial Tower (https://www.dropbox.com/sh/hh4krvxiifbb9ns/AAAhQqaNWnHF48uoWmUxwi3Oa?dl=0)
JDMEK5: Fate of Two Worlds (https://www.dropbox.com/sh/l08hcfcj1c72l7c/AADEfp0BB9GH1ML3a7kevYxja?dl=0)

PM your two votes to Maelstrom (http://forum.ninsheetmusic.org/index.php?action=pm;sa=send;u=4119) by December 3

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Heeeyy yooouuu guuuyyyss! The theme this time around is:

Mash-Up two video game songs and combine them into one awesome piece!



General Guidelines (Please read!)

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- Take a track from two video games of your choice and write a  Mash-up using whatever real instruments you choose. (Theoretically, a person/group of people should be able to pick up the sheets and play your arrangement. If you have questions about instrumentation, please ask!)
-  you will submit a .mus, .pdf, .midi, (MP3 Optional) file that contains the Mash-up that you've created.
-After the deadline, the arrangements will be made public and polling and judging will start!
-Format anything specific like variation markings, or whatnot as measure-attached dynamics, NOT PAGE-ATTACHED TEXT so it attaches properly to the measures.
- We advise you to try and choose songs from different series/franchises. similar songs from same series could equal fewer creativity points.

Scoring

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Here are the scoring guidelines:
Criteria (15 points): Do the songs the arranger combined work in a complementary way? Does the arrangement improve upon the original two?
Creativity (15 points): Creativity: Does the arranger modify the original pieces to convince us that their combination is the most unique? What sort of effect does the overall result evoke?
Preservation (10 points): Are the original themes recognizable? Be creative, but don't leave the source entirely. Someone who is familiar with the original tracks should be able to recognize your arrangement.
Orchestration (10 points):  Does the instrumentation compliment both songs equally well? How is instrumentation used to effectively combine the two pieces?
Popular Vote (15 points): How does your arrangement fare in the poll conducted after all arrangements are revealed? Exact point numbers will be determined after all entries are in.
Presentation (10 points): How user-friendly is the sheet? This category factors in three components:

Spoiler

Formatting: No need to follow the site guidelines, but please include a title, subtitle (containing original song title and game), composer, arranger, measure numbers, and page numbers. If you have Notepad or are otherwise unable to follow these, just send me a message and I'll help.
Legibility: How clear is it to a performer what to play, and how? There's no need to go overboard on fingerings and the like, as long as it's readable (e.g. no excess of ledger lines).
Playability: Would a reasonably skilled musician/group of musicians be able to perform this? Make it sound nice, but make sure someone would be able to play it too.

[close]

This last category is meant to be easy points - we're just making sure that your sheet looks nice and would be learnable by actual people.
Total of 75 points


Deadlines

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- Signup/song choice: September 8th
- Arrangement due: October 15th


People

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Host:

• BrainyLucario (the one and only!)

Judges:

• Latios212
• Maelstrom
• Sebastian
• Oronoco
• E. Gadd Industries

Participants:

• Olimar12345
• MaestroUGC
• Zeila
• Echo
• NocturneOfShadow
• InsigTurtle
• braixen1264
• Static
• Bloop
• Yug_Guy
• dajwxp
• DS
• WaluigiTime64
• Dekkadeci
• Sir Dino
• JDMEK5
• Lkjhgfdsa_77

Links to Past Contests

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Here are some links to earlier contests, for consideration:
Arrangement Contest No. 1 in A "Praeludium" (http://forum.ninsheetmusic.org/index.php?topic=3798.0)
Arrangement Contest No. 2 in C "The Grand Dance" (http://forum.ninsheetmusic.org/index.php?topic=4171.0)
Arrangement Contest No. 3 in G minor "Going Solo" (http://forum.ninsheetmusic.org/index.php?topic=4437.0)
Arrangement Contest No. 4 in F diminished "Nightmarish Visions" (http://forum.ninsheetmusic.org/index.php?topic=6395.0)
Arrangement Contest No. 5 in E-sharp "Variable Mix" (http://forum.ninsheetmusic.org/index.php?topic=6619.0)
Arrangement Contest No. 6 in G# Phrygian "Bossification" (http://forum.ninsheetmusic.org/index.php?topic=6797.0)
Arrangement Contest No. 7 in D-double-flat minor "Seasoning" (http://forum.ninsheetmusic.org/index.php?topic=7963.0)

If something is wonky, let me know

Quote from: BrainyLucario on August 29, 2016, 05:47:57 AMTake a track from 2 video games

This phrasing is unclear--does this actually mean that I need to take a track that appears in 2 different video games (e.g. Jumper from Castle Crashers and Jumper from Geometry Dash)?

If you mean that I need to take 2 different tracks from video games, what counts as 2 different tracks? Do they merely need to take up different spots in soundtracks and/or sound tests? Does Spaceport Alpha from Diddy Kong Racing and Spaceport Alpha from Diddy Kong Racing DS count? What about King Dedede's theme and Masked Dedede's theme?

Oh, and a reminder to format anything specific like variation markings, or whatnot as formatted dynamics, NOT TEXT so it attaches properly to the measures.
This was quite a problem a few contests back, and it should just be cleared up now.

Quote from: Maelstrom on August 29, 2016, 06:53:02 AMOh, and a reminder to format anything specific like variation markings, or whatnot as measure-attached expressions, NOT PAGE-ATTACHED TEXT so it attaches properly to the measures.

ftfy

Gah I only play pokemon so I can't find anything I like from other series D:

Quote from: braixen1264 on August 29, 2016, 07:53:54 AMGah I only play pokemon so I can't find anything I like from other series D:

mix main series with mystery dungeon

Are we still restricted to two games from different franchises, or has that been changed?

Oh gosh, due at the end of the month?! I still gotta make a piano arrangement of my songs! (Basing the instruments off of piano is easier for me) Welp, gotta start working fast O-o

lez go boiz gg and gl

Quote from: MaestroUGC on August 29, 2016, 12:27:34 PMAre we still restricted to two games from different franchises, or has that been changed?

nothings stopping you...but it could cause you to lose creativity points if the pieces are similar

Quote from: Dekkadeci on August 29, 2016, 06:09:52 AMThis phrasing is unclear--does this actually mean that I need to take a track that appears in 2 different video games (e.g. Jumper from Castle Crashers and Jumper from Geometry Dash)?

If you mean that I need to take 2 different tracks from video games, what counts as 2 different tracks? Do they merely need to take up different spots in soundtracks and/or sound tests? Does Spaceport Alpha from Diddy Kong Racing and Spaceport Alpha from Diddy Kong Racing DS count? What about King Dedede's theme and Masked Dedede's theme?

Me and the judges decided to encourage using games from different franchises. You can if you want, but don't expect a high score

Quote from: BrainyLucario on August 29, 2016, 05:47:57 AM- Take a track from 2 video games of your choice and write a  Mash-up using whatever real instruments you choose. (Theoretically, a person/group of people should be able to pick up the sheets and play your arrangement. If you have questions about instrumentation, please ask!)

I know this might sound like a silly question, but would it be all right if I used a "string ensemble" as one part instead of writing out several parts separately for different string instruments? It saves a lot of space and it sounds better in the soundfont that I'm using; and technically it would still be playable.

Nah, that's not how it would be given to professional players. We're not about saving space here, but more about going beyond piano transcriptions, yet not going past the place where it still couldn't appear as a professional score.

Quote from: Static on August 29, 2016, 02:57:48 PMIt saves a lot of space and it sounds better in the soundfont that I'm using; and technically it would still be playable.

*Obligatory "This isn't ninmidimusic post"*

Quote from: Static on August 29, 2016, 02:57:48 PMI know this might sound like a silly question, but would it be all right if I used a "string ensemble" as one part instead of writing out several parts separately for different string instruments? It saves a lot of space and it sounds better in the soundfont that I'm using; and technically it would still be playable.

Well, you could write a condensed score, but something like that seems unorthodox for a string ensemble.

OK, I figured as much. Cool, thanks!

Quote from: Maelstrom on August 29, 2016, 03:40:04 PMNah, that's not how it would be given to professional players. We're not about saving space here, but more about going beyond piano transcriptions, yet not going past the place where it still couldn't appear as a professional score.
*Obligatory "This isn't ninmidimusic post"*

What about the people who can only use 8 instruments due to Finale Notepad? Do you want us to take out several notes because of only having 1 trumpet rather than making 3 trumpet parts in one line? I literally cannot participate in this contest if I cannot put multiple notes for the same instrument to represent multiple of one instrument.

A string ensemble (bass, cello, viola, violin) covers a wider range of notes, so it would make more sense to use separate staves for them. Trumpet parts are often written together anyway, so I don't see the harm in that.

At least, that's what I think...

Okay, then maybe I read that in the wrong way :P

Quote from: Static on August 29, 2016, 05:17:26 PMA string ensemble (bass, cello, viola, violin) covers a wider range of notes, so it would make more sense to use separate staves for them. Trumpet parts are often written together anyway, so I don't see the harm in that.

At least, that's what I think...

The awkward part is that my band teachers in school have consistently handed out first trumpet, second trumpet, third trumpet, etc. parts, all without such divisi parts (i.e. one note at a time). I've read band music with multiple trumpet parts on one page, but then again, they were published before 1910 so I don't know how much I trust them to handle modern band notation.

That's normal for bands, where there are multiple parts for a single instrument; less so in orchestral writing where like parts (like most winds and brass) will have 2-3 parts on a single line on the score. Players will receive parts with only their part on it, but the score will be consolidated.

+1 for the contest name <3

Erm, I remember seeing in the other thread that we can use any software as long as it looks good...so do we have to submit a mus? If I use Sibelius and accompany it with a playback video would that be okay? ^^

Going for a piano quintet for two, um, really awesome tracks. Trying to pull this off on Finale is quite tough for me haha, soooo if the alternative is possible that's great! ^^ If we really need mus files then I guess that's cool too, it'll be a cool challenge~

Oh! I won't be touching Pokemon OSTs for this hehe. Trying something crazy for a change~

Quote from: dajwxp on August 29, 2016, 06:55:22 PMIf we really need mus files then I guess that's cool too, it'll be a cool challenge~

Are you implying that you're going to win? XD

Quote from: cashwarrior1 on August 29, 2016, 06:57:58 PMAre you implying that you're going to win? XD

Mmm more like, i'm going to have fun ;)

Yeah I was gonna ask the same thing, cuz I can make a great looking PDF and a MIDI in Musescore, but the MUS just ends up to be a mess after thing to export as a MusicXML and putting that into Notepad.

Also, does the arrangement have to be multiple instruments? Or can we just do a piano solo if we feel it would better compliment the pieces we chose to arrange?

Quote from: DS on August 30, 2016, 04:56:22 AMYeah I was gonna ask the same thing, cuz I can make a great looking PDF and a MIDI in Musescore, but the MUS just ends up to be a mess after thing to export as a MusicXML and putting that into Notepad.

Also, does the arrangement have to be multiple instruments? Or can we just do a piano solo if we feel it would better compliment the pieces we chose to arrange?

1. eh......it depends on if the judges are willing to let you. I'm okay with it, but then again....I won't be judging the pieces.
2. not necessarily,the instrumentation can be whatever you want it to be, even if it's only piano

New guideline added, courtesy of Maelstrom.

Any chance it could be changed to this?

Quote from: Maelstrom on August 29, 2016, 06:53:02 AMOh, and a reminder to format anything specific like variation markings, or whatnot as measure-attached expressions, NOT PAGE-ATTACHED TEXT so it attaches properly to the measures.

This makes more sense than "formatted dynamics" does.

Quote from: Olimar12345 on August 30, 2016, 08:17:51 AMThis makes more sense than "formatted dynamics" does.

^

Quote from: Olimar12345 on August 30, 2016, 08:17:51 AMAny chance it could be changed to this?

This makes more sense than "formatted dynamics" does.

Sure

I totally agree. Let's go with that.

Quote from: Sebastian on August 30, 2016, 10:20:12 AMI totally agree. Let's go with that.

Wait...with what?

Maelstrom and Olimar about the expression.

"Guys I'm gonna fuse Kakariko Village with Windfall Island"

I asked brainy all about that and he said it was ok

So umm judges, can we use other programs and submit a playback file/video/musescore link instead? ^^

(as in, instead of a mus)

I don't see an issue with it (so long as I can still see/listen to the piece; it has to have sheet music and an associated audio file). Anyone else oppose?

We strongly prefer .mus files, and they should be included. We'll need to talk about whether all formatting points will come from that, the native file, or the PDF, as that is sort of universal.

^I vote PDF

As far as formatting goes: I would just like to reiterate that these should be in no way as strict as the site submissions guidelines are. I would think this would go without saying, but I've been counted off in the past for having no site URL and no game publisher copyright information (two separate times). Also, the OP says that the subtitle must include the game name and track title; you meant for both games and tracks, right?

Quote from: BrainyLucario on August 29, 2016, 05:47:57 AMMash-Up two video game songs and combine them into one awesome piece!

I think I have done what you said.

I meant this part:

"Formatting: No need to follow the site guidelines, but please include a title, subtitle (containing original song title and game)..."

Shouldn't it be "original song titles and games?"

^It should, but my money is on that it was copy/pasted.

As far as I'm concerned, you don't even need "Composition by" before the composer name or running titles on every page (not really a fan). It's great that NSM has formatting standards, but when it comes to your own arrangements that aren't for the site, there should definitely be more liberty.

Of course, if the NSM standards are your absolute-favorite, that's completely all right.

It's okay if my title is just "'Song One'/'Song Two'", right

-Creativity Points

foreals?

I'm totally for the "use your own formatting" idea, but could we just get some clarity on the aspects that will be graded? In regards to the subtitle, would it be possible to get an example of how you guys would like it to be? I just want to make sure we're all on the same page here.

Quote from: braixen1264 on August 31, 2016, 01:28:37 PMIt's okay if my title is just "'Song One'/'Song Two'", right

Quote from: WaluigiTime64 on August 31, 2016, 01:41:35 PM-Creativity Points

Quote from: braixen1264 on August 31, 2016, 01:56:38 PMforeals?

Personally I'd be jumping all over the opportunity to name my project whatever I want. And I did.

Quote from: Olimar12345 on August 31, 2016, 03:08:16 PMI'm totally for the "use your own formatting" idea, but could we just get some clarity on the aspects that will be graded? In regards to the subtitle, would it be possible to get an example of how you guys would like it to be? I just want to make sure we're all on the same page here.

I just used two lines of Subtitle for my games. So like,


rougly is what I did.

i have never seen so much discussion about unclearity in an arrangement contest
this isn't that much different from the last three/four contests, right?

How committed am I to the pieces that I choose to arrange? Like if I PM'd you guys that I picked two certain tracks, but then later down the line I get a better idea for a different set of pieces, could I switch?

Quote from: Bloop on August 31, 2016, 10:38:48 PMi have never seen so much discussion about unclearity in an arrangement contest
this isn't that much different from the last three/four contests, right?

Many people are new this time.

do we have to send in the names of our chosen tracks?  It doesn't really clarify that in the OP

also what 3 weeks to finish the arrangement that's absurd I can't do that

I'd like for there to be composers listed, but I don't care about the ninsheetmusic url. It's more of a  courtesy to the composers than something that must be followed to the letter. I, personally, won't be deducting points for text formatting, but don't do anything stupid, or put in typos.

I really gotta put my mind into working on this :(

Pls extend submission deadline! I really want to do this but with school and work, I would need more time! :c

I'll ask Brainy what his thoughts are tomorrow at school since he insists on still hosting this after what happened.

I'm thinking of dropping out, the two songs I picked were generally bad choices, one was a good song in general, but the other, I don't recognize it or its game series. I don't really want to create an arrangement for both of these songs and combine them by September 30th, not because the deadline, but because there are other things I want to do right now. Sorry :P

Quote from: Olimar12345 on September 01, 2016, 06:56:25 PMPls extend submission deadline! I really want to do this but with school and work, I would need more time! :c

How late were you thinking?

Oh, and don't feel bad, cashwarrior. Most arrangement projects end with only 25% of the entries getting finished.

I feel bad because I really wanted to do this contest, mashing up songs is awesome!

we're all pushing for an extension, if that happens, consider staying in!

I think we could feasibly push this past thanksgiving break for some guaranteed free time

Right, as fall break would also be included.

Past thanksgiving? That's 3 months to do this, I don't think anybody here would need that much time.

Quote from: NocturneOfShadow on September 02, 2016, 08:52:54 AMI think we could feasibly push this past thanksgiving break for some guaranteed free time

Maybe not that much, but definitely longer than it currently is.

Imo working with a shorter deadline is part of the challenge.

If I just don't procrastinate, I could probably get this done by Wednesday (as my online classes don't start until then, but after that I feel like I'm going to be pretty weighed down)... I'm just gonna be that one douchebag that gets it done months ahead of time XD

ok maybe thanksgiving is pushing it but it always takes me a long time to make these

Would be really interested in participate in this, better theme than the last one, but I have lot to do atm and also some stuff planned, and y also a job. :-\

Quote from: braixen1264 on September 02, 2016, 01:00:37 PMImo working with a shorter deadline is part of the challenge.

Sure, but that can be a different challenge for everybody, completely dependent on one's personal day-to-day schedule. I'm a firm believer of trying to accommodate more people so that the turnout is better, rather than making it a shorter deadline to increase some sort of challenge factor. Cobraroll was always really cool about it, check out the first few contests to see what I mean.

I'm late, but is there any guideline that still needs to be resolved?

As for the deadline, we'll likely extend it if it seems like most people need it. But the point of the date we set is for you to pretend it's a hard deadline for now to avoid procrastinating it.

Quote from: Latios212 on September 04, 2016, 02:01:03 PMI'm late, but is there any guideline that still needs to be resolved?

Umm, the one about mus files please! ^^ Are they nevessary or recommended? Is a pdf + audio mixdown a fair alternative?

QuoteAs for the deadline, we'll likely extend it if it seems like most people need it. But the point of the date we set is for you to pretend it's a hard deadline for now to avoid procrastinating it.

*silently cheers*

I have three more days and I still haven't figured out which two songs- crap.

Quote from: Sir Dino on September 05, 2016, 11:44:55 PMI have three more days and I still haven't figured out which two songs- crap.

Same. I might drop out too, I'm just not feeling as enthusiastic as I was around a week ago.

I still have a collection of song pairs I did not submit--if you think you can work with any 2 songs, PM me and I'll respond.

At Brainy's request via Skype, the OP has been updated. The new deadline to submit your arrangements is October 15th.

Yay now I can procastinate!

*checks watch*
*sips tea*
yep, time to drop out.

*checks watch*
*sips tea*
yep, time to beg for more time.

Joke but not joke-pls

When we submit our mashups, how elaborate can our explanations of how our mashups combine both pieces be? Can we provide a measure-by-measure description or label several bars with which video game music piece is used (or, if both, which instrument/staff handles what theme), for example?

Here's what we discussed.

It's all right to submit some program or performance notes along with your arrangement. Keep in mind that anything extra you submit won't factor into your score (which is still based on the given criteria).

However, please refrain from explaining how you've combined your pieces in your arrangement. Your arrangement should already be labeled with your two pieces in your subtitle. It's up to the judges to analyze your arrangement, and not every participant may want to provide explanations. Hope this doesn't suck out any of the fun, but you shouldn't get an unfair advantage, either. Let your piece speak for itself!

Um, since it might be opportune I'd just like to bring up my question again:

Do we really need to submit .mus files?

Aaaand if we only need the mus files for the audio playback, is a pdf and an accompanying audio export a fair substitute?

It's going to be a mess to XML export five parts haha, I just realised. ^^; I don't mind getting points cut, but I really think that submitting a mus would be a bit too much unnecessary work~

Sorry for bringing this up again haha, I'd just like to be crystal-clear 'bout this~

Quote from: Oronoco on September 25, 2016, 05:20:57 PMHere's what we discussed.

It's all right to submit some program or performance notes along with your arrangement. Keep in mind that anything extra you submit won't factor into your score (which is still based on the given criteria).

However, please refrain from explaining how you've combined your pieces in your arrangement. Your arrangement should already be labeled with your two pieces in your subtitle. It's up to the judges to analyze your arrangement, and not every participant may want to provide explanations. Hope this doesn't suck out any of the fun, but you shouldn't get an unfair advantage, either. Let your piece speak for itself!

Shoot, my current score contains the musical form of the mashup in the subtitle and labels the first appearances of each video game music theme at their respective bars. Should I remove them?

Well, like nocturne I'm officially going to have to drop out of the contest. Another writing opportunity has come up and as much fun as these contests are, paying the bills comes first :/

If I ever get some down time between projects, I'll probably finish my arrangement. I had a pretty cool idea! d:

Awww, darn. I was looking forward to seeing your guys' songs.

How are we all doing?

I'm not.

Unfinished still
This may be the first time I need an extension too

I could vomit all over my keyboard and it'd still be better than what I have right now

I'm actually finalizing the MIDI and MP3 right now, but I need answers to both my latest question and dajwxp's before submitting anything else. (My defaults are to remove the info I specified in my question and to submit a .mus and hope BrainyLucario can turn it into my PDF.)

Quote from: Dekkadeci on September 26, 2016, 12:15:41 AMShoot, my current score contains the musical form of the mashup in the subtitle and labels the first appearances of each video game music theme at their respective bars. Should I remove them?

It's fine to keep those. Just don't reveal all of your arranging secrets.

A MUS file is no longer required, but still recommended. If you use Finale, please go ahead and submit a MUS. Don't worry about it you use other software and the conversion would mess up your arrangement; be sure to include a nice audio file instead. Create your PDF from whatever software you normally work in to make the PDF look the neatest.

Also, the deadline has been moved to Saturday, November 5th. Hope that helps!

I'll mention it here as well, I'm dropping at of the contest. The extended deadline is nice, but what I'm working on has evolved well beyond the bounds of the contest and has taken on a life of its own.

Quote from: Oronoco on October 08, 2016, 12:10:34 PMIt's fine to keep those. Just don't reveal all of your arranging secrets.

A MUS file is no longer required, but still recommended. If you use Finale, please go ahead and submit a MUS. Don't worry about it you use other software and the conversion would mess up your arrangement; be sure to include a nice audio file instead. Create your PDF from whatever software you normally work in to make the PDF look the neatest.

Fantastic. ^^ Thank you so much for clarifying this, gonna focus all-out on the arranging now~

QuoteAlso, the deadline has been moved to Saturday, November 5th. Hope that helps!

...well, that's when i stop procrastinating. yay for more procrastination

...just when I was going to start woking on my project


I guess I can procrastinate longer now

Quote from: MaestroUGC on October 08, 2016, 04:39:05 PMI'll mention it here as well, I'm dropping at of the contest. The extended deadline is nice, but what I'm working on has evolved well beyond the bounds of the contest and has taken on a life of its own.

That's fine. I'd love to see the finished result at some point in time, though.

Quote from: Oronoco on October 08, 2016, 12:10:34 PMAlso, the deadline has been moved to Saturday, November 5th. Hope that helps!

Quote from: Oronoco on October 08, 2016, 12:10:34 PMthe deadline has been moved to Saturday, November 5th.

Quote from: Oronoco on October 08, 2016, 12:10:34 PMNovember 5th

Good, more time to work on my totally complete and finished arrangement that i started last night!

When all's done, who do I send things to? Not saying I'm done, just wondering.

I vote Maelstrom

why me

Quote[Wednesday, August 31, 2016 11:38 PM] BrainyLucario: Grounded for a bit. I appoint Maelstrom as host until I get back

Oh my. Didn't see that.
Ok, send stuff to me. If I don't receive enough by the deadline, bad things will happen.
In all seriousness, please make the deadline guys. I don't want to be forced to extend the deadline again.

Quote from: Maelstrom on October 29, 2016, 09:51:41 AMIf I don't receive enough by the deadline, bad things will happen.

Spoiler

[close]

Do Due tomorrow

WAIT WHAT NO WHAT HUH SINCE WHEN WAS WHAAAAAAAAAAAT

i'm dropping out

you guys will still be up at midnight right

Cuz that means I have sunday morning to submit this, ahaha go asia time~

It's actually done! I'm just not lazy to organise the score. Like, I'm so on the ball that i dont even know where the ball is woohoo

We currently have 5 entries, which is enough to proceed?
Is anyone else almost done, or can we close it now?

I'm almost done; I'll submit it within the next half hour or so.

You don't have to wait up on me

It's about that time.
Or, it's way past that time oops.
Since not one single entry had the same file assortment, these links are just to the dropbox folders I threw everything into.
The entries:
Bloop - Forgotten Ancient Ruins (https://www.dropbox.com/sh/euz5pmuo4jlx9e2/AAAWg8dsbeWX1CYhU-Qy7gS_a?dl=0)
Dajwxp - Heroes are No Different (https://www.dropbox.com/sh/ixsln4iv8zimhpp/AACdEuhle3OGRKNCZyvNN-ina?dl=0)
Dekkadeci - Prism of Delight (https://www.dropbox.com/sh/giz2fryubiqrdok/AABGtvMYjEnA2t_mUPjTKqRQa?dl=0)
Echo - Judge, Jury, and EXEcutioner (https://www.dropbox.com/sh/70ejnvoubdea3tn/AABtJWN2wAYlnlHtCMsgWd8La?dl=0)
InsigTurtle - The Town That Once Was (https://www.dropbox.com/sh/223uacjxuwz5wmj/AAAY_At-BMaxoFZ8_KB3VmRia?dl=0)
Lkjhgfdsa_77 - Mario Medley (https://www.dropbox.com/sh/jumrstz6uljl3e9/AABnTbl1USexqzotgfnoErF9a?dl=0)
Static - Secret of the Celestial Tower (https://www.dropbox.com/sh/hh4krvxiifbb9ns/AAAhQqaNWnHF48uoWmUxwi3Oa?dl=0)

Poll coming soon

10 bucks says bloop wins

Poll is now up, thanks to Deku.

Before I vote, just to make it clear: Can we vote for ourselves?

I would've voted for myself in mine but I just voted for the one I liked the best.  I'd like to think that would always end up being one that isn't your own

Wow...so many fantastic works out there. Great job everyone! ^^

Voting was actually kinda tough, because a bunch of arrangements just wow'd me like never before. No hints given, except it's not mine ahaha. I think there were a bunch of arrangements which bring a whole new dimension to the concept of arranging, and narrowing it down to one vote between those was really frikkin tough.

I will say that I gave my vote in the name of creativity though, ehehe. Not that the other works weren't creative - it's just that this one had too many fantastic ideas to overlook.

Either way, great listening experience, all the best everyone :)

I figured "Screw it" and voted for my favourite arrangement that isn't mine.

Also, when does voting end and when do judges need to submit their evaluations by?

EDIT: Found the poll closing time. Still wondering whether judges need to submit their evaluations earlier or later than that.

it was really disappointing to me that I recognized absolutely none of the music, with the exception of licky's take on the mario main theme (which just didn't jive with me, sorry licky!).  There were 2 or 3 pieces that stood out to me above the rest though, and I can't say I actively liked any of the pieces, so I'm just going to vote for the person who I think did the best job.  Not to say you all did a bad job, you all did very well, and to boot you actually finished.  I'm just used to listening to these and thinking "wow I love it" but that didn't happen this time.

Although I've always mixed songs in my previous AC entries, this one was fairly hard to write. But I do think everybody did a great job! I didn't recognize any other songs (just like noc), so I just chose the one I liked listening to the most.

I may as well release why I voted for the entry I did (but not who I voted for).

Picking my favourite reminded me of why I'd likely be a poor judge for contests like these: I picked my favourite based on these criteria I tend to use in my music listening in general:

• Catchiness: Probably the most importantly, I like pieces I remember. If I don't remember your piece within 3 listens, I'm out of here.
• Speed: I find slow pieces to be boring in general, to the point where I'd abstain from commenting on them in public places like YouTube and Musescore because I know I'm fairly strongly biased against them.
• Familiarity: I assign a few bonus points in general to arrangements or pieces I've heard/played before. Although this can backfire for poor renditions of pieces I've already heard (this means that I like professional recordings of concert band music significantly more than middle school band renditions, for example), this explains why I like listening to remixes and piano transcriptions. ...And given that, among all the pieces that weren't mine, I recognized at least one video game theme in only 2 of them...yeah, I was biased.
• Structure: Perhaps riffing off "Familiarity" a little, I like pieces more if they have discernable structures. (Structures often involve judicious use of repetition and warping of already used material.) This is probably part of why I love classical music.

You may have figured out several hints about which piece I picked, and I'll give one more: So far, it's the only piece where I looked up the VGM theme I hadn't already listened to before. And yes, I'm familiar with its other theme. (So, yes, I thought the unfamiliar bits were catchy.)

I dropped out but I will eventually finish my mash up. When I do may I post it here

Haha dekka I was strongly turned off of your piece mostly because of how fast it was

Guys where's mine? I submitted it

Quote from: JDMEK5 on November 14, 2016, 10:36:16 AMGuys where's mine? I submitted it

To who?
I'm the host now.

Quote from: Maelstrom on November 14, 2016, 11:51:35 AMTo who?
I'm the host now.

Well I sent it to Brainy but that was a long time ago.

Then please, send it to me. This is the first I've heard of it.
We'll probably need to reset the poll after I get it.

could we also have multiple votes on the new poll, if that's possible?

With 7 entries, is 2 a good number?

You can reference the last contest for the way I set up the voting, which I like.

I sent. Thanks a lot for letting me still get it in.

The poll ends in 2 days but we haven't been able to listen to JDMEK's piece yet

just sayin'

The (updated) entries:
Bloop - Forgotten Ancient Ruins (https://www.dropbox.com/sh/euz5pmuo4jlx9e2/AAAWg8dsbeWX1CYhU-Qy7gS_a?dl=0)
Dajwxp - Heroes are No Different (https://www.dropbox.com/sh/ixsln4iv8zimhpp/AACdEuhle3OGRKNCZyvNN-ina?dl=0)
Dekkadeci - Prism of Delight (https://www.dropbox.com/sh/giz2fryubiqrdok/AABGtvMYjEnA2t_mUPjTKqRQa?dl=0)
Echo - Judge, Jury, and EXEcutioner (https://www.dropbox.com/sh/70ejnvoubdea3tn/AABtJWN2wAYlnlHtCMsgWd8La?dl=0)
InsigTurtle - The Town That Once Was (https://www.dropbox.com/sh/223uacjxuwz5wmj/AAAY_At-BMaxoFZ8_KB3VmRia?dl=0)
Lkjhgfdsa_77 - Mario Medley (https://www.dropbox.com/sh/jumrstz6uljl3e9/AABnTbl1USexqzotgfnoErF9a?dl=0)
Static - Secret of the Celestial Tower (https://www.dropbox.com/sh/hh4krvxiifbb9ns/AAAhQqaNWnHF48uoWmUxwi3Oa?dl=0)
JDMEK5 - Fate of Two Worlds (https://www.dropbox.com/sh/l08hcfcj1c72l7c/AADEfp0BB9GH1ML3a7kevYxja?dl=0)

For voting, just PM me 2 options. That way I can put off giving the results longer

oh my god granjdmek

The main poll closes at November 21, 2016, 10:42:09 PM forum time. Will it end up closing by itself and possibly revealing everyone's old votes, or will someone close the poll before that happens?

This poll will not count towards anything. Idk how I can stop it.

Quick question for Echo: are there supposed to be 4+ violins per part in yours? I'm unsure about those 4-note chords otherwise.

Took the poll off.

Quote from: JDMEK5 on November 20, 2016, 04:16:51 PMQuick question for Echo: are there supposed to be 4+ violins per part in yours? I'm unsure about those 4-note chords otherwise.

Not speaking for Echo, but there is such a creature as the quadruple stop. They're generally played by only sustaining the top 2 notes (and playing the bottom 2 as grace notes). Mezzo piano quadruple stops that are whole notes long are probably quite difficult, though...

Quote from: JDMEK5 on November 20, 2016, 04:16:51 PMQuick question for Echo: are there supposed to be 4+ violins per part in yours? I'm unsure about those 4-note chords otherwise.

The parts are condensed onto one staff. The individual performers would get sheets with just their part, but for the sake of someone looking at the whole arrangement I figured it saves space and makes things more clear with the similar parts on one staff. Also, I already got help to add certain features that I couldn't do with just NotePad, so I didn't want to make more work for them by having to merge two sheets to bypass NotePad's 8-staff restriction.

Alright cool. Just wondering.

A reminder to PM me your votes, as I have only received 3 ballots so far.

Voting is closed now expect results soonish maybe.

Hoping the results come soonish. Are the judges' ratings what's holding the results back?

(I'm only publishing more details about my "Prism of Delight" entry after the results come out to avoid skewing the judges.)

Whoa, you guys are still doing this?

Nice.

So far one judge has finished their ratings.
And a few haven't started yet.

Again, I apologize for this taking so dang long.

Wheeeeeee
I wonder if Brainy will return in time to see the results?

Quote from: Maelstrom on December 31, 2016, 09:57:26 PMSo far one judge has finished their ratings.
And a few haven't started yet.

Classic NSM procrastination at its finest.

At his point we might as well wait for Brainy.

Quote from: MaestroUGC on January 26, 2017, 08:24:43 PMAt his point we might as well wait for Brainy.

BrainyLucario: I might be back on site sooner than you think, hopefully....

E. Gadd: I allowed him to make this post.

casual bump for any information

Yeah, I think I'll need to step down as judge and as guy in charge here. I just can't make myself interested in writing judgements for these great arrangements. If someone else wants to step up, I can hand all the material off to them.

How far are all other judges anyway?

Not that far, iirc.

I would volunteer as guy in charge, but I'm not that great of a motivator. Who knows? I may end up, if no one else steps up. <waits for a week>

BrainyLucario: I give permission for anyone to step up and run this until I get back. (If it doesn't get finished before then)

Quote from: E. Gadd Industries on January 27, 2017, 07:34:55 AME. Gadd: I allowed him to make this post.

Would setting deadlines for the judges motivate them to submit their judgments in a timely fashion? (The other possibility is that we still end up with missing judgments by the deadline.)

History has proven it does not.

Well, since no one has shown interest, if no one objects, I'll be stepping up and taking control of the contest.
*Note: I have not been on Skype in the past 2 or so days, so if anything was said there, I missed it.

Quote from: E. Gadd Industries on March 07, 2017, 04:07:53 AMWell, since no one has shown interest, if no one objects, I'll be stepping up and taking control of the contest.
*Note: I have not been on Skype in the past 2 or so days, so if anything was said there, I missed it.

Yay, three cheers for E Gadd! ^^

Ima try to get on Skype sometime tonight or tomorrow, and anyone who's on can discuss a plan. Because these results NEED to be finalised.

Quote from: E. Gadd Industries on March 08, 2017, 03:29:38 PMIma try to get on Skype sometime tonight or tomorrow, and anyone who's on can discuss a plan. Because these results NEED to be finalised.

I'll help, if I happen to be awake.

Welp, scores are beginning to roll in. Slowly but surely. My goal is to have this done by the end of April, and the sooner, the better.

Given the length of time that has passed already I declare myself the winner.

yayyyy u did et, congraturations
celebrat!

Quote from: E. Gadd Industries on March 19, 2017, 06:31:38 PMWelp, scores are beginning to roll in. Slowly but surely. My goal is to have this done by the end of April, and the sooner, the better.

In British terms, "scores" = "sheets", so I thought for a moment that the entries were still coming in xD

XD I forgot about that, sorry for the confusion!

 Weeeeeeeell things are interesting at this point.
-I have my scores in
-Maelstrom stepped back
-Oronoco has fallen off the face of the digital earth
-Seb is hopelessly busy
-Latios212 and I have spoken and it's uncertain as to whether or not he'll judge.

That said, what are your thoughts? I've recruited a few people to score the sheets, but so far I only have one person's. Also, the popular vote was very sparse.

I hate to keep delaying things, but this is the current situation. If you have any ideas on what can be done, I'd love to hear them; if at all possible, I want to get more scores in before I calculate the winner.

Honestly I really respect that you're taking charge of this to get something done - thank you so much mate! ^^

It's probably not a bad idea to call for new judges if everyone doesn't have time! I'll consider pulling out to judge if this delays a little too long, whee :)

I'm in a pretty good place right now, and could judge if needed. PM/skype me if you need me to help out somehow.

As of now, AA has given me scores, and THC said he would judge them. I'll review my position in the morning.

Who's tetrahydrocannabinol?

Quote from: InsigTurtle on March 30, 2017, 07:18:14 PMWho's tetrahydrocannabinol?

Isn't that the chemical in marriage you wanna? Nice joke, though.

Quote from: E. Gadd Industries on March 19, 2017, 06:31:38 PMMy goal is to have this done by the end of April, and the sooner, the better.

Right now, are we on track to have results for this contest by May 1 of this year?

Quote from: Dekkadeci on April 24, 2017, 10:35:12 PMRight now, are we on track to have results for this contest by May 1 of this year?

E. Gadd has AP tests and a lot of them. It probably won't be until May 10th at the least.

^^Yea. I tried to get them all ready, but the studying and prep for the AP Tests came suddenly and quickly, and I figuratively dropped everything else I was doing. So yeah, you can expect them...
Hmmmm...
We'll shoot for a release of the results on May 13th at approx. 4 PM CST.
Will that work for everyone?

Quote from: E. Gadd Industries on April 26, 2017, 06:01:28 PMWe'll shoot for a release of the results on May 13th at approx. 4 PM CST.
Will that work for everyone?

That works for me.

I can't wait for the results of this contest tomorrow--I've been saving up an elaborate explanation of the structure of my entry (relative to the two VGM themes it's derived from) for a long time!

Woohoo!
I freaked out Thursday because I thought I had said it was that day & I was completely unprepared XD
That said, I'm getting a physical here in a bit for CC my senior year, and once I get back from that, I'll start tallying up scores & such.

Alright, everyone! It's the time you've all been waiting for! It's been LONG overdue, and I apologize for any inconveniences that may have caused!

A few things before I get started:
-This is not going to be the traditional results post because of limitations I was given. As such, the only explanations I have for specific scores are from myself. Of course, in the defense of the other judges, I was kinda pushing to get the scores in ASAP.
-We only had 8 votes in the popular vote, and with 8 entries, that makes it difficult to determine who gets what (as 2 people got 2 votes, and those were the highest). Because of this, I am awarding the two people the full 15 points and and the people who got 1 vote each will receive 8 points.
-The scoring was all across the board for this contest from the judges, and so instead of doing an average, I'll just add the scores together in the "Total" section.

I want to thank everyone who played a part in this Contest. This includes:
Brainy and Maelstrom (for leading the contest)
The judges (both that originally signed up and that stepped in)
And the entrants

I had fun being able to evaluate all the entries; they were all really well done, and we had 8 of them!
But now that I'm done saying things that no one cares about, let's get on with the show!

Results!

Bloop:

E. Gadd Industries:

Criteria: 15
The songs were combined rather well! I think the motif itself was the main reason behind how/why the two songs did work so well together.

Creativity: 13
I think the piece was very distinct in how it progressed, and I thoroughly enjoyed how the instruments were added throughout. The time sig changes were a bit hard to follow, but that just added to the complexity of the creativity. (When I listened to the original pieces, I didn't perceive that many time sig changes.) Also, the idea of creepy gloomy things is very well projected in the piece.

Preservation: 10
Both themes are definitely present in the piece, and the way they alternate in dominance is pretty cool.

Orchestration: 10
The song pulled instruments from both pieces (and added some of its own!), creating a variety of different sounds and "flavors".

Presentation: 7
General presentation was nice. Formatting was easy to follow and logical, which is good. Legibility is a bit crowded in certain places where the slurs and Ped markings intersect (like at m66-the next few measures), and this deducted a point or two. Playability was generally within reason, although there were a few "yellow note" instances, indicating a note couldn't be played by the traditional instrument.

[close]

AmpharosAndy

Criteria - 14
Creativity - 12
Preservation - 8
Orchestration - 9
Presentation - 9

[close]

ThatHiddenCharacter

Criteria - 15
Creativity - 15
Preservation - 10
Orchestration - 10
Presentation - 10

[close]

Vote Bonus

+15

[close]

Total

Criteria - 44/45
Creativity - 40/45
Preservation - 28/30
Orchestration - 29/30
Presentation - 26/30
Popular Vote - 15/15
Grand Total - 182/195

[close]

Lkjhgfdsa_77:

E. Gadd Industries

Criteria: 9 points
The two songs the arranger chose have a lot of potential to go far as a mix; they're in the same game, so I was expecting this. The arrangement improves on the two songs SOME with the addition of a cello. That's what saved the score as it was. "Overworld" was improved upon the most, given that "Underground" (although I believe it is supposed to be "Underworld") was only heard for a short time throughout the entire song.

Creativity: 7 points
The reality of it is, this sheet wasn't very creative. Sure, the cello was a nice addition, but overall, the songs are exactly the same with a tempo change, a few rhythms taken out, and minor things like that. Don't get me wrong, the original songs are still VERY present (which can be good), but the arranger could've taken things a bit further, remixed them a bit more. I'm sure time constraint played into this, though, and the fact that it was a medley, not a blending of songs.

Preservation: 10 points
Yes, the original pieces are easily recognizable, but the first time I listened to it, I didn't know when to expect Underworld to be integrated in, and so I was questioning myself as to whether or not I knew Underworld that well.

Orchestration: 8 points
At least it wasn't JUST piano. The cello complements the piano and the song overall in a very nice way, although, like has been expressed above, the song could've been taken further, and one way to do so is through integration of additional instruments. That said, the piece is good about not requiring a full-blown orchestra to play; only 2 people are required.

Presentation: 6 points
Formatting- Firstly, there are no measure numbers. Also, no composers are given. Other than that, formatting is fine.
Legibility- This is okay. One massive thing I would like to point out, the very last measure of the song: That glissando needs to be an arpeggio. That really struck me as off. General legibility is generally present, although there are several locations where the "Ped." marking overlaps on a staff line (I would give measure numbers, but there aren't any). One good thing about the piece is that there is a lot of space between the systems, making for an easy read, not overcrowded.
Playability- A slow tempo, basic chords and rhythms, all make for a very easy play. I'd say performers would have no difficult time playing this. One thing, though, there are some places where yellow noteheads are seen for the cello, indicating that the instrument is incapable of playing those notes on its own.

[close]

AmpharosAndy

Criteria - 5
Creativity - 6
Preservation - 6
Orchestration - 2
Presentation - 7

[close]

ThatHiddenCharacter

Criteria - 5
Creativity - 7
Preservation - 7
Orchestration - 5
Presentation - 10

[close]

Vote Bonus

+0

[close]

Total

Criteria - 19/45
Creativity - 20/45
Preservation - 23/30
Orchestration - 15/30
Presentation - 23/30
Popular Vote - 0/15
Grand Total - 100/195

[close]

Static:

E. Gadd Industries

Criteria: 15 points
I'm addressing the questions in reverse. Both songs for this piece are almost identical, and so they are both easy to "improve." Now, that being said, the piece is carried out very nicely and is improved upon, especially in the middle of the piece/second half. Now, I almost docked points for the first question because the songs are so similar, but then I started thinking, with their similarity, there's no way they couldn't complement each other (unless the arrangement was a swing-and-a-miss, which this was far from). I just want to know if this song choice was intentional for the similarity of the songs.

Creativity: 12 points
I'm very impressed with where the arranger takes the piece, especially m24 on. It was a nice addition to the two songs. Had it just been the two songs and nothing more, it technically would've been a remix still, but not as many points would've been awarded because it'd be technically and not creatively. Now, something could've been done to perhaps add a little more variance. All told, I'm giving this score out of understanding that there's a time constraint involved.

Preservation: 7 points
This category is especially difficult for this piece. The themes almost blend together so much that it's difficult to tell which theme is what, and this is where it's dangerous to pick two almost-identical songs. The themes are still there, they can be heard, but they seem to just sound like one theme.

Orchestration: 10 points
I like how there're all these seemingly classical instruments and such, and then right in the middle is an electric bass. It surprised me. Both songs are both really tied to string instrumentation, so it's good to see all the string instruments integrated into the song. There were some points where one or two instruments overwhelmed everything else, not sure if that was intentional or not, but it didn't interfere with the song as a whole.

Presentation: 9 points
The formatting is very good in this arrangement! Concerning legibility, everything is good there, too. I was expecting things to get crowded after m24, but I was pleasantly surprised. The spacing between the systems also helps keep things from getting chaotic. The only issue I have is playability. It's a very easy piece, although it does get more difficult as the song progresses. But it's nothing no reasonably skilled group of musicians can't handle. Where my beef lies is with the abundance of yellow notes found all throughout m25-31 in the violin track. These yellow notes mean that the average violin can't play that high (in this case). This, however, doesn't cause the loss of too many points.

[close]

AmpharosAndy

Criteria - 13
Creativity - 11
Preservation - 10
Orchestration - 10
Presentation - 9

[close]

ThatHiddenCharacter

Criteria - 15
Creativity - 15
Preservation - 10
Orchestration - 10
Presentation - 10

[close]

Vote Bonus

+15

[close]

Total

Criteria - 43/45
Creativity - 38/45
Preservation - 27/30
Orchestration - 30/30
Presentation - 28/30
Popular Vote - 15/15
Grand Total - 181/195

[close]

Echo:

E. Gadd Industries

Criteria: 15 points
This piece was great! I did have some trouble picking out the songs at first, as I was unfamiliar with both of them, but upon further review, I was able to pick out both distinctly in the piece. The way they are remixed is very successfully done. I also believe both songs are greatly improved upon, and they fit together/complement each other well enough on their own.

Creativity: 15 points
The way the song transitions is very smooth and well-structured. Also, the title is one of the more creative I've seen. Both songs convey an upbeat feeling, one of being PUMPED!! The piece captures this idea very perfectly, as I was very into the beat.

Preservation: 10 points
Both songs are equally present and noticeable.

Orchestration: 10 points
This instrumentation was very innovative and clever, as both songs are more electronic in nature. They were fit well to violins (although the violin soundfont in Finale is GAHHHHHHH), and I was also pleased to see a drum set, which contributed much to the upbeatness of the piece.

Presentation: 9 points
The only issue was in playability. For Violin 1, m60-end, yellow notes are present, indicating normal violins can't reach those notes. The same with electric bass in m5, 9-11, 17-19, 25-27, 35, 43, 51, 57-59, and 62.

[close]

AmpharosAndy

Criteria - 13
Creativity - 9
Preservation - 9
Orchestration - 7
Presentation - 10

[close]

ThatHiddenCharacter

Criteria - 15
Creativity - 15
Preservation - 10
Orchestration - 10
Presentation - 10

[close]

Vote Bonus

+8

[close]

Total

Criteria - 43/45
Creativity - 39/45
Preservation - 29/30
Orchestration - 27/30
Presentation - 29/30
Popular Vote - 8/15
Grand Total - 175/195

[close]

InsigTurtle:

E. Gadd Industries

Criteria: 15 points
Not only does the arranger combine the two themes, they combine them to make a story. Despite the very morbid ending to the story, I found this piece to be AMAZING as I imagined "The Town that Once Was" being destroyed as told through the song. The criteria went above and beyond what was required.

Creativity: 15 points
This piece, is extremely unique and creative. The songs are manipulated in such ways that multiple different reactions are evoked all throughout the song, and at appropriate times. Everything is bright and lively at the start, and then it all slows down when the messengers arrive and give their news, but what really impressed me was when the heroes are brought into the plot, and the music picked up, only to fall back into darkness once again.

Preservation: 10 points
Treasure Town can be heard throughout in varying degrees of manipulation, and with varying degrees of Lavos' Theme to create the different story components.

Orchestration: 10 points
This was one of the main contributors to much of the atmosphere throughout the piece. Had the instruments chosen been any different, the story presented wouldn't have been as involved/submersive. With that many instruments to keep up with, I was surprised a big error wasn't made, given the time constraints.

Presentation: 7 points
There were a few things missing, such as double bar lines at key changes and the like, and there were a few yellow notes that I saw. Legibility was also a bit crowded in some places, which is to be expected with that many staves in one system. The legibility issue became especially a problem in the violin's staff near the end of the piece.

[close]

AmpharosAndy

Criteria - 14
Creativity - 15
Preservation - 10
Orchestration - 9
Presentation - 9

[close]

ThatHiddenCharacter

Criteria - 15
Creativity - 15
Preservation - 10
Orchestration - 10
Presentation - 10

[close]

Vote Bonus

+8

[close]

Total

Criteria - 44/45
Creativity - 45/45
Preservation - 30/30
Orchestration - 29/30
Presentation - 26/30
Popular Vote - 8/15
Grand Total - 182/195

[close]

Dekkadeci:

E. Gadd Industries

Criteria: 15 points
Both songs were presented separately at first, and then blended together throughout the remainder of the piece. In addition, the piece transitions effectively from section to section, which are defined clearly in the PDF file.

Creativity: 15 points
The piece is most creative in how it is structured. The piece is well-organized overall. It also utilizes improvisation to help the songs flow together to ultimately make the piece how it is.

Preservation: 10 points
The piece preserves both songs well, as it even distinctively shows where the original songs are in the first parts of the song, so the listener/reader can hear each song in the piece and know what they are listening to.

Orchestration: 9 points
Instrumentation seems fitting in that the piece is rather fast, and reasonably-skilled violinists can play at such speeds.  In addition, the piece is well-suited for a string quartet. It would've added more effect to the piece to have perhaps a flute accompaniment throughout, so as to nod to "Victory's Delight." I am not saying it wasn't mentioned enough. I am just saying it would've added more color to the piece.

Presentation: 9 points
Legibility is generally good, although there are some points where things get crowded, such as m46 & 47, 53, 57, et al. Formatting is also sufficient, although a bit crowded. Finally, playability seems good, provided Violinist 1 has a moderate amount of skill.

[close]

AmpharosAndy

Criteria - 14
Creativity - 12
Preservation - 9
Orchestration - 7
Presentation - 6

[close]

ThatHiddenCharacter

Criteria - 15
Creativity - 15
Preservation - 10
Orchestration - 10
Presentation - 10

[close]

Vote Bonus

+0

[close]

Total

Criteria - 44/45
Creativity - 42/45
Preservation - 29/30
Orchestration - 26/30
Presentation - 25/30
Popular Vote - 0/15
Grand Total - 166/195

[close]

Daj:

E. Gadd Industries

Criteria: 15 points
The two songs were combined in a skillful way that both improves on both songs and makes the overall piece enjoyable to listen to.

Creativity: 15 points
The rhythms of both songs are manipulated in a variety of ways that produce a very formal and almost foreboding effect that definitely strikes a tone with anyone listening to the piece.

Preservation: 8 points
While both themes are present, they are difficult to pick out among all the elaborate rhythms and performance methods utilized.

Orchestration: 10 points
The instrumentation chosen is highly effective in making the piece all the more interesting, and it captures the mood of the piece will. No one instrument is overused, and likewise, no one instrument is neglected. Each instrument is also played in a variety of methods, making it seem like there are more than just 5 instruments being played in a performance.

Presentation: 5 points
Firstly, there are two different names for this piece. In the PDF file, it is called "Heroes Are No Better.", while in the AV file, it is title "Heroes Are NO Different". This could cause confusion. Another point of confusion is the lack of instrument labels. It is understood to be a piano and string quartet, but not everyone may understand that. Also, playability is an issue, especially for the pianist in m97-111, as this passage requires much from the person who plays at that point. Legibility is generally good, and not much crowding occurs, except in places such as m22, and 109 (accidentals).

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AmpharosAndy

Criteria - 13
Creativity - 12
Preservation - 9
Orchestration - 8
Presentation - 7

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ThatHiddenCharacter

Criteria - 3
Creativity - 7
Preservation - 10
Orchestration - 7
Presentation - 10

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Vote Bonus

+8

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Total

Criteria - 31/45
Creativity - 34/45
Preservation - 27/30
Orchestration - 25/30
Presentation - 22/30
Popular Vote - 8/15
Grand Total - 147/195

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JDMEK5:

E. Gadd Industries

Criteria: 13 points
While the two songs are blended well, one takes the melody and the other takes the accompaniment, meaning "Powerful Mario" takes a backseat while "Zelda's Lullaby" plays to PM's background. So it doesn't necessarily "improve" upon the two.

Creativity: 14 points
The piece doesn't really go anywhere with the two songs; they are exactly as presented. One thing that saved this score, specifically, was the use of memery at the end of the piece.

Preservation: 10 points
Both themes are easily recognizable.

Orchestration: 10 points
Instrumentation was tailored well to fit each song's needs/effects, and even more was added with the vocals. The only issue: The violin was a bit overpowering.

Presentation: 8 points
Formatting was clear, although it would've made things simpler to have the specific songs listed, not just the games. Legibility was generally clear, although m3 got a little crowded with the specification of a new instrument. Playability was also good, with only a few yellow notes in the cello's staff, indicating that only the cellist would have difficulty reaching such notes with a normal cello: m10, 18, & 42

Note: The Flintstones definitely caught me off-guard.

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AmpharosAndy

Criteria - 15
Creativity - 13
Preservation - 9
Orchestration - 8
Presentation - 10

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ThatHiddenCharacter

Criteria - 15
Creativity - 15
Preservation - 10
Orchestration - 10
Presentation - 10

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Vote Bonus

+8

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Total

Criteria - 43/45
Creativity - 42/45
Preservation - 29/30
Orchestration - 28/30
Presentation - 28/30
Popular Vote - 8/15
Grand Total - 178/195

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And now, all's left is to announce the winner!
That person's name is...

DRUM ROLL PLEASE

In 8th Place...

Lkjhgfdsa_77, with a score of 100/195!

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In 7th Place...

Daj, with a score of 147/195!

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In 6th Place...

Dekkadeci, with a score of 166/195!

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In 5th Place...

Echo, with a score of 175/195!

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In 4th Place...

JDMEK5, with a score of 178/195!

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In 3rd Place...

Static, with a score of 181/195!

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And the Champion of this Arrangement Contest, with a score of 182/195 is...

Spoiler

Whoa! We have a tie! Bloop AND InsigTurtle are the Champions of Amalgamation!!

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Thanks again for everyone's support & cooperation, and I do apologise for the excessive amount of time you had to wait!

Hehe, well played guys! ^^ And once again, thank you E Gadd for taking the time and effort to see this one through, ahaha <3

I gave my vote to Insig, because god damn that is one beautiful work. I'd never have seen the PMD2 theme in a better-presented way, and there was a story to go with it, whoo! But Bloop did a really nice one too, and I'm not surprised that the two of them tied~ ^^

Well done everyone :)
(p.s. thc why did you give me a 3 for criteria ahaha no hard feelings tho i kinda know why xD)

Quote from: daj on May 13, 2017, 07:17:01 PMHehe, well played guys! ^^ And once again, thank you E Gadd for taking the time and effort to see this one through, ahaha <3

I had fun, and I'm happy to see the event to completion! You are welcome!


Also, the results & everything are fully finalised now! Sorry for the WIP period; parents made me go to bed so I had to sneak over to my phone and continue from it! O_o

Quote from: daj on May 13, 2017, 07:17:01 PM(p.s. thc why did you give me a 3 for criteria ahaha no hard feelings tho i kinda know why xD)

I don't remember, but I know I had a good reason behind it. Maybe...

I actually posted most of the details of the full structure of my entry in https://musescore.com/user/9996931/scores/3906481 just now, but I've been having this funny fan-thought of who's playing this piece in my head for a while:

From the Kirby series, Taranza plays Violin I and Magolor plays the Viola. (It's not coincidence that both characters are antagonists in their debut games that mend their ways afterwards but still find ways to muck around with the protagonists' heads.)
From Bravely Default, Edea plays Violin II and Ringabel plays the Cello. (I mainly picked Edea because she's assertive and Ringabel because he has amnesia, but--Bravely Default spoilers incoming--the two are both from Eternia and get involved in a relationship by the end of the game.)

Note where the instruments' parts in the development (Bars 46-72, rehearsal "numbers" B inclusive to D exclusive) come from--Violin I and the Viola both tend to play material from the Prism Plains theme (from Kirby: Squeak Squad), while Violin II and the Cello both tend to play material from "Victory's Delight" (from Bravely Default).

Ringabel has bad enough amnesia that he plays a generic bassline on the Cello fairly often, but he usually snaps out and remembers which series' material he's supposed to be playing.

All 4 characters have strong enough personalities that I think amusing friction goes on between them whenever they play this piece.

In regards to daj's entry

E.Gadd: 15, 15
THC: 3, 7

There's got to be some confusion there, right?

Oh fuck I didn't prepare a victory speech uhm i wanna thank my parents and my boyfriend and uh thank you

Great work everyone and congratz Insig for our shared first place! I personally think you deserved it more!

@Dekka Dang! That's really cool! So did you keep that in mind from the beginning, or did you think of that at some point after?

@AA Ikr? I wish I would've required both of you to provide some feedback for your scores, especially when I saw that.

@Bloop (Applause)

Quote from: E. Gadd Industries on May 14, 2017, 04:57:53 AM@Dekka Dang! That's really cool! So did you keep that in mind from the beginning, or did you think of that at some point after?

I only came up with who was playing what after I'd finished the arrangement.

That's still a really cool idea!

I thought everyone else did pretty well, to be honest. I remember listening to some of the other entries and thinking, "Welp, I'm not gonna beat that" (I think daj's score is criminally low right now)

But yeah, congrats everyone, especially Bloop dee doop

I'm glad this was able to continue without the host, a.k.a. me. Though it is a bit sad to see how long it took. If we ever do start this again, I'd be willing to host again, though I don't blame anyone for being skeptical of me hosting anything after the "password change" Incident i went through.