MerleFest will begin accepting entries for the Chris Austin Songwriting Contest (CASC) beginning Oct. 1. MerleFest is an annual homecoming of musicians and music fans that takes place on the campus of Wilkes Community College in Wilkesboro, N.C. CASC is one of the most acclaimed songwriting contests in roots and Americana music, having a reputation for launching careers and discovering important new talent. Winners in four categories will be chosen at MerleFest, which will take place April 26 - 29, 2018.
Now in its 26th year, CASC is an opportunity for songwriters to have their original songs heard and judged by a panel of music industry professionals, under the direction of volunteer contest chairperson, Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Jim Lauderdale. Aspiring songwriters may submit entries to the contest using the online entry form: merlefest.org/ChrisAustinSongwritingContest/ or by mailing entries to MerleFest/CASC, PO Box 120, Wilkesboro, NC 28697. The deadline to enter is Feb. 1, 2018.
The first round of the CASC competition takes place in Nashville, Tennessee, and is narrowed down to 12 finalists representing four categories: bluegrass, country, general and gospel/inspirational.
“We are extremely proud of the career successes achieved by many CASC alumni.” said Lee K. Cornett, coordinator of MerleFest’s CASC.
Net proceeds from the contest support the Wilkes Community College Chris Austin Memorial Scholarship. Since its inception, the scholarship has awarded over $41,000 to deserving students. To learn more details about the contest, visit MerleFest.org/CASC.
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