Please enclose the following material in an email or Google Drive folder with open permission:

• A performance video with the following specifications: 

  • Your band performing an original song - can be an existing video from a live performance or rehearsal, as long as you have also included the introduction 

  • A verbal introduction of your band and a brief description of the original song you will be performing for your submission (What is it called? Is there an interesting story behind writing it? Does it have a theme or topic that is important? etc.). 

  • YouTube or Vimeo links are preferred, but you may send your video in a Google Drive folder if necessary. Please do not attach video files to your email.

• A written bio about your band (please make sure this is in a text file format like a Google doc, Word doc, or PDF. Do not send jpegs or pngs)

• A list of band members and their instruments/the instrumentation you would be playing with for the live show. Please include anyone who might need a microphone for background vocals, etc.

• A photo of your band that can be used for promotional purposes

• The lyrics to the song played in your submission video

• Any relevant links, like your website, social media pages, or streaming links

• Send your materials to Pearl Napolitano at marketing@artsaoa.com

You are eligible to enter to compete if you fit the following criteria:

• A band comprised of two or more members performing original music. You MUST perform original music, no covers will be accepted.

• All participants must be available all day on January 24, 2026, for the tech run-through and performance.

• You must be prepared to play three originals in the live show.

• Bands who compete but do not win and bands who submit but are not selected to play in the live show may reapply each year, but are not guaranteed a spot in the live show on any given year.

• Bands with members under the age of 18 must have a written note of consent from their parent or guardian if chosen to compete.

• Solo acts and bands performing only covers are not eligible.

• Winning bands may not enter again for the two years following their winning year. Previous winning bands may enter with the same members three years after their winning year - ie. a band that wins in 2026 may enter again in 2029.

• Individuals who were members of the previous year’s winning act may not enter the year after winning. Individuals who are members of a winning band may enter in a different project TWO years after their winning year, as long as it is a new project composed of 50% or more new members and they are playing different music. For example, members of the band that wins in 2026 may enter with a new band in 2028, as long as 2/4 members are different.

• Participants under the age of 18 who do not have permission from their parent or guardian may not apply.

No, it is free to send in your band’s submission.

However, bands who are selected to play in the live show will be asked to pay a nonrefundable deposit of $50 to cover operational costs for the event.