Terms & Conditions
OCTAVES INTERNATIONAL MUSIC & DANCE COMPETITION 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Music • Dance • Talent • One Global Stage
About the Competition
Octaves International Music & Dance Competition 2026 is a global platform for performers from India and eligible countries. Participants begin with an online Preliminary Round, with selected performers progressing to the Semi-Finals and Grand Finale.
1. Who can participate?
The competition is open to participants from India and eligible international locations, subject to the competition rules, category requirements and age eligibility.
2. What are the age groups?
Junior: up to 6 years; Young Performer: 7–14 years; Teens: 15–20 years; Adults: 21+ years. Age eligibility will be determined based on the age reference date announced by Octaves.
3. What music categories are available?
Music categories include Carnatic Classical, Hindustani Classical, Western Classical, and Cinema Songs / Light Music.
4. What dance categories are available?
Dance categories include Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, Kathak, Mohiniyattam, Odissi, Manipuri, Sattriya, Folk and Contemporary.
5. Is the first round online?
Yes. The Preliminary Round will be conducted online through performance video submission. Submission instructions and deadlines will be shared after registration.
6. What happens after the Preliminary Round?
Selected participants will progress to the Semi-Finals. The number of participants advancing at each stage will be determined by the organisers based on the competition structure.
7. Will the Semi-Finals be online?
The Semi-Final format and schedule will be communicated to selected participants. Octaves reserves the right to conduct the round online or in another format as announced.
8. Will the Grand Finale be online?
The Grand Finale is planned as a live event. The date will be announced separately. Finalists will receive the relevant participation details in advance.
9. Who will judge the competition?
The judging panel will include respected professors, accomplished musicians, dancers and industry experts with relevant experience in their fields.
10. How will performances be evaluated?
Performances will be assessed using criteria appropriate to the selected category. The judging process is designed to provide a fair, transparent and meaningful assessment of talent and performance.
11. Will I receive feedback?
Yes. Every participant who qualifies for the Semi-Finals will receive a detailed assessment and recommendation report covering strengths, areas for improvement, performance assessment, technical observations and suggested next steps for further development.
12. What will Grand Finale finalists receive?
Grand Finale finalists will have the opportunity to perform live and may receive finalist recognition, certificates, awards and an opportunity to be featured on OctavesOnline, subject to the final competition arrangements.
13. Can participants from outside India participate?
Yes. The competition is intended to welcome participants from India and eligible international locations. International participants should ensure they can meet any applicable travel, visa or other requirements for the Grand Finale.
14. Can I register for more than one category?
Multiple entries may be permitted where stated by Octaves. Each entry must meet the applicable category requirements and may require a separate registration fee.
15. What are the performance submission requirements?
Participants must submit their performance in the format, duration and manner specified by Octaves. All submissions must be received before the stated deadline. Detailed submission guidelines will be provided after registration.
16. Can I use backing tracks or accompaniment?
Any permitted accompaniment, backing track or instrumental support must follow the rules for the participant's category. Specific requirements will be communicated in the performance submission guidelines.
17. Is the registration fee refundable?
Registration fees are non-refundable and non-transferable except where Octaves expressly states otherwise. Please review the Terms & Conditions before completing payment.
18. Who is responsible for travel and accommodation for the Grand Finale?
Unless specifically stated otherwise, participants and/or their parents or guardians are responsible for travel, accommodation and other personal expenses associated with attending the Grand Finale.
19. Can Octaves use my performance or photographs?
Participants, or their parent/legal guardian where applicable, agree that Octaves may use submitted names, photographs, videos and performance-related content for legitimate competition, promotional, marketing and social-media purposes, subject to the applicable Terms & Conditions.
20. How will I receive competition updates?
Competition-related updates may be sent through email, phone, WhatsApp or other contact details provided during registration. Participants and guardians should ensure their contact information remains accurate.
21. What happens if I provide incorrect information?
Participants are responsible for providing accurate information. Providing false or misleading information may result in disqualification or cancellation of the registration.
22. Can the competition schedule or format change?
Octaves may modify the schedule, categories, format, judging process, venue or other arrangements when necessary. Significant changes will be communicated to registered participants.
23. Where can I find the official rules?
The official Terms & Conditions published by Octaves form part of the registration process. Participants and parents/guardians should read and accept them before completing registration.
Important: This FAQ is intended as a participant guide. In case of any conflict, the official Octaves International Music & Dance Competition 2026 Terms & Conditions will prevail.
Octaves International Music & Dance Competition 2026