Frequently askedquestions

An eisteddfod is a performing arts festival and competition — a Welsh tradition that has been running for centuries and is well established across the UK, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. Performers enter sections in speech, music, dance or art, perform for a qualified adjudicator, and receive a mark, a certificate and detailed written feedback. Think of it as a recital, a competition and a masterclass combined.

Anyone. Allegretto is open to all ages from preschool through adult, and to all levels from complete beginners to pre-professional performers. You do not need to be enrolled at a school or studio, and you do not need a teacher to enter you — families can enter directly.

Never. Allegretto USA is an online platform and every entry is uploaded — a video for the performance sections, a photograph of the work for Visual Arts — so you compete from your own studio, school or living room, anywhere in the United States. There is no travel, no hotel, and no clashing with a fixed timetable — you record when the performance is ready.

The adjudication is the point. Every entrant leaves with detailed written feedback from a professional in their discipline — not just a placing. Allegretto is built around development, so beginners and advanced performers are judged within their own age division and level.

A written adjudication, a mark, and a certificate for every section entered. Gold, Silver and Bronze awards are given on merit rather than ranking, so more than one entrant can earn Gold. Top performers are invited to the National Final.

Yes. Studios, schools and private teachers can enter all their students on one sheet and settle the fees in a single payment rather than section by section. Contact the USA team and we'll set you up with a studio entry sheet.

Yes. Allegretto has run the Inter Provincial Eisteddfod across South Africa for years, with thirteen sections and entrants in every province. The USA program is the same organization, the same adjudication standards, and the same philosophy — an eisteddfod for all.