While the leaves are just beginning to turn colors here in New Jersey, it is already time to think spring. The New Jersey Folk Festival has announced details about the 14th Annual Singer/Songwriter Showcase. The deadline for applications is December 15th, 2007.

The New Jersey Folk Festival has been part of our local folk calendar since 1975. Run by undergraduate students at Rutgers University, the NJ Folk Fest focuses on indigenous folk forms and each year honors a local ethnic community. In addition, the festival provides a stage for performers and encourages “new” artists to showcase their talent.

Now in it’s 14th year, the Singer/Songwriter showcase is a juried showcase event that will features six “winners” who will perform 20 minute sets at next year’s festival (mark your calendar – Saturday April 26, 2008).

The competition is open to all songwriters who have never before performed at the New Jersey Folk Festival. Interested performers are required to submit three songs which must contain original words and music from the performer featured on the tape (no cover songs!). Lyric sheets must also be submitted. An impartial panel of judges will choose six artists based on originality of lyrics, melody and vocal quality. Submissions can be sent in on CD, cassette tape or via Sonicbids.

The showcase presents an excellent opportunity for emerging songwriters to reach new audiences. The annual festival (admission is free!) draws from the Rutgers student body, the local community, as well as folk music fans from the across the region. The 2008 festival will also celebrate German-American traditions in addition to offerings from the diverse world of folk music.

For more information, visit www.njfolkfest.rutgers.edu where you will find a downloadable application, or go to www.sonicbids.com .