Department of Conservation and Recreation
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Department of Conservation and Recreation
Media inquiries: Please contact Dave Neudeck, dave.neudeck@dcr.virginia.gov, 804-786-5053.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: February 28, 2013
Contact:
Songwriting contestants sought for "Gathering in the Gap" Music Festival
Additional Contact:
Aaron Davis
Chief Ranger-Interpreter
276-523-1322
(BIG STONE GAP, VA) - Entries are being accepted for a songwriting contest held as part of the Gathering in the Gap Music Festival, May 25 at the Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park in Big Stone Gap.
The songwriting contest will showcase outstanding, but under-recognized, performing songwriters who represent the spirit and traditions of Appalachian culture.
Song themes can include Americana-related subjects and related topics as well as historic or current events. Song genres should have roots in Appalachian culture, such as Old-Time, Folk, Bluegrass, Country, Gospel, Blues and Rockabilly.
A panel of professional songwriters and music industry professionals will judge entries based on originality, lyrics, melody and relevance to the tradition of Appalachian culture. Music production and performance quality of the submission are not considered.
Panelists will choose 10 finalists who will compete on the main stage during the Gathering in the Gap Music Festival. Finalists will receive a free ticket to the festival and a festival t-shirt.Â
The first-place winner will receive a five-hour recording session courtesy of the Grammy-award-winning recording studio, Maggard Sound of Big Stone Gap. The top three winners will also receive cash prizes and plaques.
The entry fee is $10 for the first song and $5 for a second song.
To enter, send a CD of the submission with a check or money order payable to the Friends of the Southwest Virginia Museum, to P.O. Box 294, Big Stone Gap, VA 24219 or drop off the CD off during business hours at the Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park. Entries must be received by April 17.
For complete rules, a schedule of festival events, or a downloadable registration form, visit www.gatheringinthegapmusicfestival.com or call 276-523-1322.
The Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation manages the award-winning Virginia State Park system. For more information about Virginia State Parks activities, call the Virginia State Parks Reservation Center at 800-933-PARK or visit www.virginiastateparks.gov.
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