Quick question: Why are the tier-2 groups split up in performance time? It seems a bit unfair to have 4 groups perform, and then do a separate competition (Women's Division Tier-1), and then go back again to the tier-2 groups.
Varsity and Championship classifications (which can be found by clicking the event website link above) are determined by ISSMA Class A and B regulations. I think it's actually more odd or unfair to accuse Marion Harding of wanting to compete in Small Mixed or that they didn't feel they were able to Some states have official requirements that they have to stay within the confines of for purposes of competition. It does say the Varsity groups have the ability to move up to Championship, however, so I can see the cause for wariness. But, the rules also state that the top groups in both divisions are eligible for finals, so their score will be the same either way.
Well, Jay, at least no one's disqualified here. But yeah, you're right Indiana rules are just as unhelpful sometimes.
In terms of the divisions, Marion Harding has competed in the Tier II/"Small Mixed" division in previous trips to Indiana at Homestead 2017 and Homestead 2015. In each case, they advanced to the overall finals round and placed well. The difference here at DeKalb is that there is a separate set of finals for Tier I and a separate set of finals for Tier II. So this time, Marion Harding truly isn't competing against the likes of Tier I despite certainly being capable of doing so. Agreed with Alex - they're well within their right based on the rules. Though, I would've expected them to rise up to the challenge of Tier I. I mean heck, Churubusco is a school of only 400 and they bumped up.
Haven't seen the link yet, but yes there will be a live feed. Last year they actually had two - one for each venue. The DeKalb folks do a great job providing the free stream.
Edit: Link will be posted above Friday/Saturday, but also: http://www.dekalbmusic.com/live
Event page is updated. This is a massive schedule with 44 competing choirs. Some quick logistics stuff:
Mixed Tier II and Women's Tier I are performing in the Auditorium.
Mixed Tier I and Single-Gender (Tier II) are performing in the Gym.
Both Mixed Tier I and Mixed Tier II will take 5 finalists each and perform in their original venues.
6:45 pm - Daytime Awards
7:45 pm - Mixed Tier II Finals Begin
7:55 pm - Mixed Tier I Finals Begin
10:40 pm - Final Awards