Song Contest
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2026 Songwriting Contest

After 15 successful years of operation and a record 72 participants in 2025– MSA’s Annual Songwriting Contest will continue to be refined and improved in our 16th year in order to better serve Maine’s songwriters and build our statewide community.

All entries will be given a screening using the criteria of melody, lyrics, form, impact, and originality by a jury of notable songwriters, industry leaders, and other relevant community members. The top 8 songs/songwriters from this process will be selected as finalists. There will be a Finalist Showcase in November featuring all 8 artists, as we have found this format is more celebratory, less competitive, and better serves our mission. The finalists will be uplifted for their excellence, share their winning song (plus another of their choosing) with an enthusiastic audience, receive awards, and be presented to members of the media. (Similar to Falcon Ridge or Kerrville, winners will be able to bolster their careers by being named a “Maine Songwriters Association Contest Finalist” rather than 1st, 2nd, and 3rd places.)

We invite artists of all levels, backgrounds, and genres to enter.

Please note our new AI policy: MSA celebrates original songwriting created by humans. While AI tools may be used to assist with production of the audio file submitted, the songs themselves must be the original work of the MSA member artist. Use of AI in the production process must be disclosed at the time of submission. AI generated songs are not permitted.

Here’s what else you need to know:

  • The contest is open to full paid members of Maine Songwriting Association. You can update your membership here.
  • The winners from the previous year are asked to take one year off from participation.
  • Current MSA directors are ineligible. Membership must be paid at the time of entry.
  • Each full paid member may submit one original song.
  • Co-writers are allowed one entry only.
  • Songs must be uploaded in MP3 format using the upload form on the MSA website. File name should contain the name of the song only. In order for our judges to be impartial, please do not include your name in the mp3 file name.
  • Song lyrics are also uploaded through the MSA website.
  • All musical genres will be considered – no instrumentals.
  • A special showcase will be held on November 1st at Cadenza in Freeport. Each finalist’s performance will be limited to one vocalist and one instrument.
  • Your entry signifies agreement and attestation to Maine Songwriters Association’s 2026 artificial intelligence (AI) policy, described above.
  • Contest opens July 1, 2026. Deadline for entry is August 7, 2026.

If you need help creating an MP3 of your song, contact info@mainesongwriters.org and we’ll try to assist. Other questions welcome at that address, as well.

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