The article aims to analyse the criteria and procedures of assessment of pupils’ musical compositions. The review of the criterion-referenced evaluation of creative works is presented, the methodology of evaluation of the musical creative product and conditions for its application are discussed. The question is whether the criteria of assessment of a musical composition are applied in reality, i.e. during contests while evaluating pupils’ compositions. In order to answer this question the aim of the research was to reveal the experience of jury members in assessment of pupils’ musical compositions. To achieve the aim pursued, in-depth interviews with 5 composers who evaluated pupils’ musical compositions in national and international contests were carried out. The research results presented focus on the criteria of evaluation of musical compositions, on the factors influencing assessment as well as evaluation process itself.