Up-and-coming roots musicians who would like an opportunity to showcase their talents during this summer’s Susquehanna Folk Festival in York, Pennsylvania have until April 19 to submit applications for the event’s Emerging Artist Showcase at the Appell Center on Saturday, August 10, 2024.
The Susquehanna Folk Music Society, the nonprofit organization that hosts the festival, considers an emerging artist to be an individual, duo or group who has not performed regularly at major festivals or concert series. Those playing acoustic root-based styles such as folk, blues, bluegrass, Americana, world music, jazz, country, folk-rock, Celtic, and the like may apply online after reviewing the contest guidelines that are posted under a link on sfmsfolk.org. Artists are asked to share a brief bio, two or more video links, information documenting their online presence, and a high-resolution publicity photo.
From among all of the submitted applications, a panel of judges will select five finalists to participate in the showcase. Each finalist, to be notified by May 1, will perform a 20-minute set followed by a short interview. Showcase performances will be evaluated based on stage appearance, originality, personality, and overall consistency. The winner will perform a 45-minute set on the main stage later in the day and will receive a $1,000 cash prize.
The Emerging Artist Showcase is considered a highlight of the annual three-day festival that extends from August 9-11 and will also feature national and regional touring artists (to be announced), hands-on workshops, jam sessions, family activities, and lots of dancing. Although the Susquehanna Folk Music Society — which bills itself as Central Pennsylvania’s grassroots voice for folk music and dance — has been presenting fine traditional arts events since 1985, the folk festival was launched in 2018.
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