SolarFest, which bills itself as New England’s renewable energy festival, is seeking songwriters to perform in its 11th annual Singer-Songwriter Showcase this July. Ten singer-songwriters, who write and perform original music and are not currently signed to a major recording label, will be selected to perform two songs each and compete to be among the three winners of cash prizes and studio time. All finalists will receive two complimentary passes for SolarFest, which takes place July 15-17 at the Forget-Me-Not Farm in Tinmouth, Vermont. They also will be afforded the opportunity to perform short individual sets during the weekend, which features sustainability and renewable energy workshops, along with musical entertainment. The first-place winner will be invited back to perform as a featured artist during next year’s SolarFest – just as Jessica Smucker of Lancaster, PA has been this year.

“The contest is a great opportunity for emerging singer-songwriters,” maintains Phil Henry, who is organizing this year’s showcase. “The stage is impressive; the judging is done by regional music professionals who can be excellent contacts for their careers; and the networking is invaluable.” Henry, who was himself a winner of the contest in 2005, adds: “It made so many inroads for me in the Vermont music scene as well as the regional folk community. The prize of studio time meant I could make a sparkling new EP for next to nothing at an awesome area studio. I built a relationship with Vermont musicians, music professionals and most importantly – fans.”

Contestants will be judged based on the quality of the song’s composition (both music and lyrics), arrangement, vocal ability, instrumental technique and (during the actual showcase) overall performance skills. Songwriters may submit one or more songs on an audio CD with the track number(s) clearly specified for consideration, along with an entry fee of $10 per song. Alternatively, online submissions with links to the song(s) are acceptable. Submissions must be postmarked or submitted online by May 21. Finalists will be notified in early June. For official rules and an online submission form, visit www.solarfest.org/solarfest_showcase.php.