Columbia Songwriter’s Competition

The Columbia Songwriter’s Competition is designed to spotlight the craft of songwriting before anything else.

In the first round, participants submit lyrics only, so judges can focus on storytelling, originality, structure, and emotional impact — not production quality, recording polish, or performance reputation.

Selected songwriters then move on to a live performance round, where they perform their original song, receive feedback from experienced judges, and compete for artist development opportunities.

How It Works

1. Submission Round — Lyrics Only

  • Participants submit one original song electronically.

  • Judges focus on the writing itself, including storytelling, lyrical originality, structure, emotional impact, and voice.

  • No recording is required for this stage.

  • Selected writers will be invited to the live Selection Round.

2. Selection Round — Live Performance + Feedback

Chosen participants will perform their submitted song live for the judges.

Each artist will:

  • perform their original song live

  • receive brief feedback from judges

  • be evaluated primarily on songwriting, with presentation also considered

Artists will not be publicly eliminated. Results will be communicated privately, and finalists will be announced afterward.

If needed, an additional Selection Round may be held based on the number of entries.

3. Finals Event

Finalists will perform at a public ticketed Finals event celebrating original songwriting and emerging local artists.

Proceeds from Finals ticket sales will help support The Gain Stage’s broader creative workforce development programs.

Why This Program Exists

Many talented songwriters never receive meaningful feedback, mentorship, or early performance opportunities. This project exists to help change that.

This program is designed to:

  • highlight promising emerging songwriters

  • provide constructive feedback and encouragement

  • create performance opportunities for developing artists

  • build a stronger local songwriting community

  • support The Gain Stage’s broader mission of building creative career pathways

PRIZES

Entry fees will be redistributed to the top two finishers. Additional prizes may include:

1st Place

  • live performance opportunities

  • professional recording session

  • promotional or media support

  • featured performance opportunities

2nd Place

  • performance opportunities

  • promotional or media support

  • additional artist development opportunities

    Additional prizes may be announced as sponsors and partners are confirmed.

WHO CAN APPLY

Solo artists and duos are welcome.

For duos:

  • the individual who wrote the song must sing the lyrics

  • the second member must serve as instrumental accompaniment

This format helps keep the focus on songwriting and lyrical expression rather than large ensemble arrangements.

HOW TO ENTER

To submit, please email the following to thegainstagetc@gmail.com:

  • song title

  • full lyrics

  • songwriter name(s)

  • contact email

  • optional short artist bio

Entry Fee: $5

Entry fees will be collected in cash (exact change only)from selected participants attending the Selection Round.

ELIGIBILITY + RULES

Participants must:

  • submit original music

  • be the primary songwriter or co-writer

  • be able to perform the song live if selected

Cover songs are not permitted.

Songs must be the original work of the entrant(s), and all participants retain full ownership of their work.

Artists advancing to the Selection Round or Finals must:

  • perform the submitted song

  • stay within posted time limits

  • provide their own instruments when possible

A PA and one vocal microphone will be provided. Any acoustic instruments will be DI’d or properly mic’d by our sound team.

JUDGING CRITERIA

Judges will evaluate songs based on:

  • lyrical quality

  • originality

  • storytelling

  • emotional impact

  • structure and composition

  • authenticity

Performance will be considered, but songwriting remains the primary focus.

PARTICIPANT EXPECTATIONS

The Gain Stage aims to create a respectful, encouraging, and developmental environment for artists.

By participating, artists agree to:

  • respect fellow participants

  • maintain professionalism

  • contribute to a positive, creative atmosphere

IMPORTANT DATES

April 20, 2026: Selection Round

May 2, 2026: Finals Event

READY TO APPLY?

If you have a song you believe in, we want to hear it.

Whether you are brand new to sharing your work or already starting to find your voice, this project is designed to celebrate songwriting, encourage growth, and create opportunity.

Email your submission to thegainstagetc@gmail.com!