Oak Ledge
SONGWRITING CONTEST
This Winter, we are delighted to open this residency opportunity to songwriters! The Oak Ledge Songwriting Residency contest is an opportunity for three winners to receive a free residency at the cottage.
The dates for 2026 are January 4-10, February 1-7 and March 8-14.
The residencies are self-directed, so attendees will be responsible for their own meals and activities. There may be optional opportunities at the end of the week to record and perform your original material. We’d love to host an intimate community concert, sharing the music you crafted with us during your week. Sarah Kate Morgan, Traditional Arts Education Director, will provide further details to award winners.
To enter, applicants will send the following to be reviewed blindly by a professional songwriter from the Appalachian region:
■ 3 original songs, sent as a MP3 file, or link (YouTube, Spotify, etc).
■ lyric sheet for all 3 songs.
■ a 1-2 page reflection on how you intend to use the residency to further your writing and why physically being at Oak Ledge would be of value.
HOW DO I ENTER?
Entries to the contest will run November 1 through December 1.
To enter, applicants will send the following to be reviewed blindly:
- 3 original songs, sent as a MP3 file, or link (YouTube, Spotify, etc).
- lyric sheet for all 3 songs.
- a 1-2 page reflection on how you intend to use the residency to further your writing and why physically being at Oak Ledge would be of value.
