Four songwriters have been named as finalists in the Avalonfest ’09 Performing Songwriter Competition. Rhobb Elliott of North Carolina, Robyn Kay of New York, David Kleiner of Pennsylvania, and Steve Warner of West Virginia will strut their stuff on the festival’s Mountain Stage on Friday afternoon, August 7.

Judging this year’s contest are David Roth, the festival’s featured performing songwriter this year; Scott Moore, vice president of Focus Music and host of a house concert series in Maryland; Shari Gallery, concerts chair for the Hampshire County Arts Council in West Virginia; and Sue Trainor, a performing songwriter and member of the all-female trio Hot Soup!

Now in its 12th year, Avalonfest is a music, arts and craft festival that takes place August 7-9 at a clothing-optional resort and campground near Paw Paw, West Virginia. Besides David Roth, artists slated to perform during the festival include Anansegromma, Jennie Avila, Randy Barrett and Mama Tried, Buskin and Batteau, Stephanie Corby, Coyote Run, David Glaser, Robbie Limon Band, Mambo Combo, the Guy Mendilow Band, 3 Penny Acre, Dede Wyland, and last year’s contest winner – Kaydi Johnson. An open mic is scheduled for Sunday morning, while Hot Soup! will give a special performance on Thursday night for those who arrive early for the festival.

The three-day ticket price for the festival, which includes tent camping, is $135. Daily tickets also are available. For more information, visit the following website.