QUALIFYING ROUND - CONTESTANT SIGN UP INFORMATION & SHOW STRUCTURE

 $20 to enter. ( AUG 16  enter here  /  DEC 18 enter here)

We ask you, 1. Who you are & how long you have been performing. 2. What inspired you to share your story with the world. 3. Who you think influenced your style as an artist.

Perform 2 original songs in acoustic format. - Sing the song, tell the story behind it and repeat.

 You may have someone accompany you for harmony.

Please keep in mind that this is an acoustic set up singer/songwriter contest, and we cannot accommodate a full band for these contests.

 (full band exposure opportunity 2nd Saturday each month).

Please send any questions to tssa@texasstatesongwriters.com

This is an open genre competition.

judging criteria

🎼 Core Song Elements

Melody: Is it fresh, memorable, and pleasing to the ear? 

Judges look for melodic creativity and “hummability” — something that sticks with listeners.

Lyrics: Are the words original, cohesive, and emotionally resonant? 

Strong lyrics often use poetic devices like metaphor, rhyme, and rhythm to create vivid imagery.

Structure: Does the song flow well?

 Judges assess whether verses, choruses, and bridges are well-balanced and contribute to the overall arc.

Hook: Is there a catchy phrase or musical moment that anchors the song? 

A strong hook can elevate a song’s memorability.

Prosody: Do the lyrics and melody match in tone and mood?

 This harmony between words and music is key to emotional impact.

🎤 Performance & Presentation

Live Delivery: Contestants perform their songs live. Judges evaluate vocal delivery, emotional connection, and stage presence.

Dynamics & Contrast: Songs that build, shift, and surprise tend to score higher. 

Judges appreciate when different sections feel distinct yet cohesive.

Resolution: A satisfying ending — musically and lyrically — helps leave a lasting impression.

🌟 Overall Impact

Originality: Songs must be original and not infringe on copyrights. 

Unique perspectives and fresh ideas stand out.

Emotional Effect: Judges often respond to songs that evoke strong feelings or tell compelling stories.

 The “overall effect” can be the deciding factor.

🎤 Voice Quality & Tone: Judges assess clarity, control, emotional expression, and how well the vocal tone matches the song’s mood and message.

🗣️ Pronunciation, Clarity & Enunciation: Judges listen for crisp delivery, clear word articulation, and how easily the lyrics can be understood.

🎭 Stage Presence: Judges evaluate chemistry with the audience, confidence in delivery, and how the outfit complements the artist’s style and message.

Our aim is to provide a platform for artists to get their music heard and network with others in the scene. 

We bring you a "behind the scenes" experience as our artists tell you about their music career and include you in the stories of how their songs came about.  

You will hear songs you have never heard before. As well as songs you hear on the radio. 

Find out how long the artist has been performing, what inspired them to become a songwriter, who influenced their style, and more. 

Our shows provide a more personal experience with the artists!  And have had a proven track record for success.

We help artists with many things like websites, graphic design, promo videos, merchandise, virtual tip jars, direct song downloads, promotion, and more!  

By supporting Texas State Songwriters Championship, you are supporting a network of independent individuals who are putting in the work & getting noticed!

We are giving back to the community through our shows, bringing awareness to great causes, and helping breed original sounds back to Texas Music Scene!

We also host a monthly fundraiser show to help offset overhead costs of the contest series - We mix Comedy & Music for an evening you won't soon forget! www.jokesandstrokes.com