Switchback Singer Songwriter Competition July 16, 2009

Switchback Tavern in Ridgway will be hosting a singer/songwriter competition this summer. There are loads of good musicians in our area, so we are hoping this provides a venue for them to display and benefit from their talents. It differs from the typical open mic nights, by making it a competition.

The competition will be held on five consecutive Thursdays, beginning on July 2. The evening is hosted by Greg Everhart, artists need only bring their instrument. Solo or duet acts are allowed to compete. The winner each night receives a $50 gift certificate to the tavern. The top two finishers from each night qualify to compete in the final event to be held on Friday, July 31st. The Grand Prize for winning the final event is $200 cash.

The judging panel consists of local music enthusiasts and non-competing artists. Judging categories are: Melody, Lyrics, Overall composition, and MAP (Mass Appeal Potential). No prerecorded backup or "click" tracks are allowed. Performers are allowed to do one warm up song before their designated competing song. Songs cannot exceed 5 min.
First come basis for performers. If your song doesn’t make the cut on your first attempt, you can try again with another song on any following Thursday.

This event is the first of its kind in the area. We hope it will encourage our great local musicians to get out and compete, while be very entertaining for the audience.