Musicians and vocalists sought for POAC audition
Anyone in the music business will tell you that it takes a break to get ahead in this saturated industry. Pend Oreille Arts Council is offering the unique opportunity for those who are looking to further their musical careers. It’s called Northern Stars Rising and auditions have been set for Saturday, January 11 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Heartwood Center, 615 Oak Street, Sandpoint.
Who can audition? “We’re open to all genres and sizes of groups,” POAC’s Executive Director Hannah Combs said. “They can perform original and/or cover music. And there will be a separate prize for the best original song.”
Two finalists will be chosen from each of these three categories: Polaris, ages 14 to 18. “The North Star is a bright beacon in our night sky, always oriented in the right direction,” Combs said. “This category is for high school students who are learning what it takes to be a professional musician.”
Sirius is the category for those 18 to 25. “All stars shine, but none like Sirius, the brightest star in the northern sky,” she said. This category is for young adults with serious hopes of booking more paid gigs. And, the third category is Aurora, “The stunning aurora borealis, or northern lights, gives a rare, breathtaking show that is a delight to see.” This is for the established artists over age 26, who are already performing locally but hope to expand their reach outside North Idaho.
“Performers will audition with a three to five minute sample of their work. If selected from the audition, they will then create a ten to twelve minute set for the performance which will be held on Friday, February 21 at 7 p.m. at the Heartwood Center,” Combs said. She also said that the dress rehearsal will be held on Thursday, February 20 which performers will be required to attend.
Auditions will be juried by a panel of three POAC Performing Arts leaders. First and second prizes in each category will be determined at the performance by a judge of five guest panelists. Prizes include recording sessions, photoshoots, music supplies, lessons at Music Conservatory of Sandpoint, videos and more.
There will not be any tech support at the auditions; however, full tech support will be available at the performance. If you are interested, you need to reserve your time slot by Thursday, Jan. 9 by going to artinsandpoint.org and clicking on the Northern Stars Rising button. You’ll find details and an application form there.
Information: POAC, 208-263-6139