“Write a Polka” Contest

     Comedian Steve Martin has said that it’s impossible to play a sad song on the banjo. It always comes out sounding so cheerful.
     The same principle applies to polkas. It’s impossible to be depressed when you are singing or dancing to a polka. You just have to feel better. That’s the philosophy behind the music on Polka Therapy, and it deserves to spread.
     That’s where you come in. Write a polka that embraces the “Feel better!” theme of Polka Therapy and enter the “Write a Polka Contest.”


Rules

 

    1. The contest is open to all ages.

    2. All work must be the original work of the contestant or, in case of collaboration, of both or all collaborators.

    3. All lyrics must be written in English.

    4. The prizes are as follows: 1st place: $250.00. 2nd place: $150.00. 3rd place: $100.00.

    5. Each entry must include a melody lead sheet, with lyrics, and an official entry form. (Download here). Entries will be judged on melody and lyrics only, according to these criteria:

           Cleverness of lyrics

           Strength of melody

           Overall appeal

    6. Contestants may collaborate, as long as each collaborator includes a melody lead sheet, with lyrics, and an official entry form with the entry.

    7. Contestants may enter as often as wished, as long as each entry includes a melody lead sheet, with lyrics, and an official entry form.

    8. Contestants may also send in a more complete arrangement and/or a recording of their entry, if desired. The recording does not need not be professional quality. However, winners will have the option of including a link to their recording on the Polka Therapy web site, whether through iTunes, a download, or other manner deemed suitable by the judges. All proceeds from any downloads or links will remain with the contestant(s).

    9. All winners agree to allow sound samples of less than two minutes each to appear on the Polka Therapy web site. Those winners not submitting recordings will allow the judges to arrange for simple recorded sound samples of their work on the web site, at no expense to the contestant.

    10. Winning song lyrics will be posted on the Polka Therapy web site, along with a sound sample of the work. (See #9 above.)

    11. Contestants give permission for their name to appear on the Polka Therapy web site and in other contest-related materials, along with the town and state in which they live, if their song(s) are selected as winners.

    12. Entries must be received by January 15, 2009. Winners will be announced on or before February 15, 2009.

    Click here to enter the contest!