Silver Dollar City is now accepting applications to compete in the 14th annual KSMU Youth in Bluegrass Band Contest during the final weekend of the park’s Bluegrass and BBQ festival.
The competition is open to young bands where all members are 21 or younger, with exceptions given for parents who may perform with their children, as most of the competitors do. All contestants must perform on stage using a single microphone.
There is no fee to enter, but this is an invitational event, and pre-registration is required by March 15, 2015. As many as 20 groups will be accepted for the May 23 contest.
Winners will compete for the following prize awards:
- 1st place – $1,200
- 2nd place – $1,000
- 3rd Place – $800
- 4th place – $600
- 5th place – $400
Professional judges will rate the bands on instrumental and vocal ability, professionalism, and audience appeal.
This contest has been a strong predictor of future success in bluegrass, with winners being booked for repeat performances at the park and elsewhere.
Contest rules and application forms can be found on the Silver Dollar City web site. Each application must include an audio CD, concert DVD, or a link to a live performance on YouTube.
