Playing for Others (PFO) will hold its second annual songwriting competition as a part of its culminating Arts Festival Weekend. 10 finalists will be selected from all entries. Performances of these songs will happen Saturday, March 13th, 8:00 pm at the McGlohan Theatre. One winner will be chosen from 10 finalists. Winner will receive $250 as well as the opportunity to have their song professionally recorded.
Playing for Others appreciates the diversity of human beings and does not discriminate based on race, age, religion, ability, sexual orientation, sex or gender identity.
All musical styles are encouraged and welcomed.
–FAQs
Rules
1) Individuals or groups may submit. Songwriters may choose to have someone else perform their entry.
2) All songwriters and performers must be from 14-18 years old.
3) Songwriters and performers may only be involved in one entry.
4) All entries must be original works.
5) All entries must be under 5 minutes.
6) Entries may not contain profanity.
7) The 10 selected Finalists must be available for sound check at the McGlohan Theatre between 12:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. Saturday, March 13th. Finalists will not be called for the entire time.
8) The 10 selected Finalists must be available to perform the evening of Saturday, March 13th.
9) Any entries submitted become property of Playing for Others. Playing for Others has the right to use entries in its promotional materials as they see fit. Playing for Others also has the right to dismiss an entry for any reason.
10) Each piece must reflect the inspiration for the current year.
2010 Inspiration: “Moment by Moment”
Process for submission:
1) Using video, record your song and post to YouTube. Use this format when you are Titling your video: Playing for Others Songwriting Competition, 2010: Title of Song. That way it’s searchable on Youtube.
* Entries are not judged on quality of video, however we must see the actual performers in the video.
2) Once your entry has been posted, email pfo.songwriting@gmail.com with the following information (you will receive confirmation of contest entry once the following information has been emailed) :
URL address to your uploaded Youtube video:
Primary contact name for this submission:
Primary contact age:
Primary contact school & grade:
Primary contact phone:
Primary contact email:
Parent/guardian of primary contact:
Parent guardian of primary contact phone:
Parent/guardian of primary contact email:
Name of songwriter(s):
Name of performer(s):
Name of band (if applicable):
Title of song:
Explanation of how it relates to this years theme, “Moment by Moment”:
* Entries are not considered eligible until you have emailed the information and received confirmation
Timeline
January 1st – February 14th: Entries accepted
February 14th, 11:59 p.m.: Deadline for Entries
March 1st: 10 finalists announced. These videos will be posted on the Playing for Others website, www.playingforothers.org.
March 13th: Sound check for 10 finalists between 12:00 p.m. & 7:00 p.m.
March 13th: Playing for Others Concert & Songwriting competition finals. Doors at 7:00 p.m., Concert at 8:00
Questions?: Contact pfo.songwriting@gmail.com
FAQs
Q: What is Playing for Others?
A: Playing for Others (PFO) is a unique experience for teens that develops their leadership skills, establishes relationships with children with special needs, and explores the teens passion for the arts.
Q: How does entering this contest affect my community?
A: By entering the contest you are helping us get the word out about Playing for Others and what we’re all about. You are also showing that teens in Charlotte care about the world around them and that you can take what you’re passionate about to benefit the greater good. PFO also gives a portion of what we raise to our partner non-profit – 2009/2010 Mitey Riders.
Q: What does the winner receive?
A: The winner will receive $250, an opportunity to record their song professionally, as well as a seat on the judges panel the following year.
Q: How are finalists & winners chosen?
A: A panel of 5 judges will choose the 10 finalists. Judging is based on a variety of criteria. A full panel of 10 judges will choose the winner.
Q: Who is on the panel of judges?
A: The panel is composed of music industry professionals, including performers, songwriters, educators, directors, business owners and booking agents.
Q: Do my parents have to be involved?
A: As long as we have a parent contact name and number and they are aware that you have entered the contest, they do not need to be involved. However, we of course encourage it!
Q: Is there an entry fee?
A: There is no entry fee.
Q: If I am selected as a finalist, what is expected of me?
A: Selected finalists will need to be available during the times listed in the Rules. Finalists are also expected to help draw a crowd, friends, family, etc. The larger the crowd, the more impact we will have.
Q: What are the other events surrounding the Arts Festival Weekend?
A: Check out the full calendar!