fina synchronised swimming manual for judges, coaches & referees

2009 – 2013 FINA SYNCHRONISED SWIMMING MANUALFOR JUDGES, COACHES & REFEREESSECTION III2. Judging Interpretation of MusicInterpretation of music is a concept of the music expressed by theperformance of the swimmer[s]. Use of music.Use of the Music should be judged with an ‘open mind’, allowing for the widestlatitude of individual interpretation. The Use of Music is how the swimmer(s)uses the structure of the music. For example:- some swimmers use the underlying beat- some swimmers use the melody- some swimmers use the musical accents- some swimmers may use a combination thereofThe interpretation of the music involves the swimmer(s) attempting to expressthe character or mood of the music. Two different swimmers may feel the sameselection of music quite differently and equally well. This is acceptable; theproblem occurs when an interpretation of the music is at odds with the characterof the music.In the solo event, when use and interpretation of the music are done toperfection, it will appear as if the soloist and her music are one. It is as thoughthe music was written for her.The judge may prefer certain ways to use and interpret music, but this shouldnot influence their judging. It is not a question of whether the judge likes theinterpretation and use of the music, but whether or not they are well-done.3. Judging Manner of PresentationManner of Presentation is the way in which the swimmer[s] presents theroutine for the inspection (or consideration) of the public (audience andjudges); total command and amplitude.The swimmer(s) should demonstrate that she is in total command of herperformance, involving the total swimmer (inner and outer self). The impressionis one of a richness of movement, with the swimmer “owning the water.”This completeness requires a high energy level, both physical and emotionalthroughout the performance of the routine. When the swimmer(s) demonstratesthis ability to perfection, the public will be drawn into the performance.2009 – 2013 FINA Synchronised Swimming Manual for Judges, Coaches & Referees 150