A popular, local music competition is gearing up for its seventh year.

The Okanagan Singer-Songwriter Competition provides local musicians with outstanding performance and marketing opportunities.

Photo Credit: Okanagan Singer-Songwriter Competition

Created by Jennifer Boal, a local musician and teacher, the event gives up and coming artists opportunities to help their music flourish.

“When I first started I found it really difficult to find somewhere where I could play original music, everywhere only wanted you to do covers,” said Boal.

Photo Credit: Okanagan Singer-Songwriter Competition

“I wanted to create an opportunity for those who wanted to showcase their original songs, and instead of making one venue, I wanted to offer multiple venues around the valley,” added Boal.

Finalists from the competition will win paid performance opportunities, a website and branding package, as well as studio recording time.

Photo Credit: Okanagan Singer-Songwriter Competition

“I realized that it is really expensive to record your music and most places want you to have a demo, from there I started seeking out local recording studios who would be interested,” said Boal

The competition is open to all ages and auditions have been held in Okanagan coffee chops for the past few months.

Photo Credit: Okanagan Singer-Songwriter Competition

Following audition nights, the event adjudicators will pick the top six finalists, along with four wild-card performers, who will then showcase their musical abilities to an audience on April 7, 2018. 

The grand prize includes paid gigs at the Armstrong IPE, Penticton’s RibFest, Vernon Sunshine Festival, Lake Country’s Art Walk and Parks Alive in Kelowna, along with studio time and a branding package to hopefully lead to many more opportunities. 

Photo Credit: Okanagan Singer-Songwriter Competition

The finale takes place at the Creekside Theatre in Lake Country from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on April 7, and welcomes all to attend. In addition to hearing incredible, original music from local talent, attendees can also look forward to door prizes, which includes a membership to the Kelowna Art Council.

“The more we support our local artists, the more they can build, grow and really give back to the community as well, so I would love to see the amazing support we’ve gotten continued,” added Boal

Photo Credit: Okanagan Singer-Songwriter Competition