Findlay, OH (July 16, 2021) - The Marathon Center for the Performing Arts, in collaboration with United Way of Hancock County, invites vocalists and bands from the 419 area code to submit a short sample of their best work for a chance to participate in the 419 Sings virtual talent competition.
Sixteen finalists will be selected to compete against each other through a virtual platform over a five-week period beginning in September. The top act will win $2,500 in cash, a recording studio session with Stone Soup Recording Studios in Maumee, and the opportunity to book their own live performance at MCPA.
“Marathon Center actively seeks out new talent and we look forward to shining a light on our regional musicians, both known and yet-to-be discovered,” said Heather Clow, MCAP executive director.
“The pandemic hit us all hard last year — especially human services and the arts. Both are equally vital to build a thriving community,” said Angela DeBoskey, chief executive officer of United Way of Hancock County. “This project allows us to work together to improve our community and has reminded us that together we are stronger.”
There is no cost to submit a sample, and potential participants must be at least 18 years old. Applicants must also live in one of the 419 area code counties, which includes Allen, Ashland, Auglaize, Crawford, Drake, Defiance, Erie, Fulton, Hancock, Hardin, Henry, Holmes, Huron, Lucas, Marion, Mercer, Morrow, Ottawa, Paulding, Putnam, Richland, Sandusky, Seneca, Van Wert, Wayne, Williams, Wood and Wyandot.
For detailed submission instructions or to submit an entry, visit https://liveunitedhancockcounty.org/419Sings beginning Monday through Aug. 13.
The top 30 performances will be selected by a panel organized by MCPA, United Way and sponsor First National Bank the week of Aug. 16. Those 30 performances will then be reviewed by a panel of industry-connected judges who will select the final 16 for the 419 Sings competition.
The competition begins Sept. 15, during a Facebook Live event. The public will be invited to visit the United Way's website to view and vote for their favorite performance. One dollar equals one vote, and the public may vote as many times as they want.
On Sept. 22, the eight acts receiving the most votes will advance to the next round. The cycle will repeat until the winner is selected on Oct. 13.
All proceeds from the event will be split between MCPA and the United Way and its partner agencies.
Source: https://thecourier.com/news/331488/musicians-sought-for-419-sings/