On the Road to Memphis - Ottawa Blues Society Blues Challenge

The Ottawa Blues Society is proud to announce that, for the first time in our 10-year history, we will participate in the Blues Foundation’s International Blues Challenge in Memphis TN. The winner of the OBS Blues Challenge will go to Memphis in February 2009 to compete as our representative in the 25^th International Blues Challenge. We are offering up to 10 slots for bands interested in competing to represent the OBS in Memphis. Depending on the number of entries received, the Blues Challenge semi-final rounds will take place at Tucson’s (2440 Bank Street) on Wednesday, September 24 and/or Wednesday, October 1, with up to five bands competing each night. Our IBC representative will be chosen at the final Blues Challenge round on Thursday, October 2, 2008.

For the purposes of the IBC, a ‘band’ is any act with three or more musicians; vocalists are counted as musicians for the purpose of this competition, and both electric and acoustic instruments are allowed. At this local competition, bands will be judged by the same criteria used for the International competition. Each band has 25 minutes to perform and is given points based on Blues Content, Talent, Originality and Stage Presence. Full details on scoring criteria and official rules are available at the Blues Foundation web site www.blues.org/ibc/index.php4

Eligibility Requirements:

1. Band members must be 2008 residents of the Ottawa/Gatineau area (approximately 100 km radius of Ottawa).
2. Each band will play one 25-minute set.
3. All songs presented MUST be Blues (electric or acoustic), Rock/ Blues, Jazz/Blues, Country Blues or Rhythm & Blues.

Application information should include names and contact info for all band members, a brief bio, a summary of the band’s experience and their performance history. You will be contacted for further information following the submission deadline. Please address any questions to liz@ottawabluessociety.com

Applications should be submitted via email to boardmembers@ottawabluessociety.com

Submission deadline is midnight Monday, September 15, 2008.