Competition Details

Please read the following carefully.  Rules apply to adult and youth contestants.

1. All bands and solo individuals, youth and adult, must register by September 1, 2026.  Register on this website or print the registration form, complete it, and mail it to Grace United Methodist Church, 4905 E. Yale Ave., Denver, CO 80222.  See Registration Form for further details.
2. We reserve the right to cap the number of entries in specific categories to assure a variety of instruments/bands can compete within the allotted time. Those who register first are assured of being included!
3. Individuals who are members of a band and wish to be considered in Solo Competition on their instrument must indicate such on the Band Registration Form and they will be judged while playing with their band. 
4. Youth and Adult Individuals who are not members of a band and wish to be considered in Solo Competition must complete the Registration Form (due by September 1, 2026) and may play alone or will be permitted to have one musical accompaniment. Backup instrument cannot be the same as contestant instrument.
5. Youth contestants are 15 and under, and all Youth band members must be 15 or younger. Solo Youth may be accompanied by an adult or youth in individual competition.
6. No Old Time Banjo style picking this year (maybe next year if we include Old Time bands).
7. Maximum of 7 members in a band.  All acoustic instruments – no electric. Bands must include at least 3 different stringed instruments.  Individuals may play in only one band.
8. After 1pm, warm-up/tune up and jam areas will be in the grass area on the east side of the sanctuary or in the parking lot behind the church.  Once entering the performance area, please refrain from picking while others are performing on the stage.
9. Bands and solo individuals must play music from the public domain unless you wrote what you’re playing!
10. Songs should be limited to 3 minutes.  Bands will be allowed two songs.  Individuals will perform only one song.
11. If a contestant breaks a string while performing or the sound system malfunctions, he/she has the option to stop immediately.  Contestant will be allowed to replace the broken string and/or repeat the performance without penalty.
12. All prizes will be awarded after the last competition.
13. Judges’ decisions are final.
14. Absolutely no drugs or alcohol on church property.

Contestants will be judged on the following criteria: 

• Rhythmic Timing
• Stage Presence
• Music Performance
• Creativity/Expression
• Difficulty

Questions?

info@denverbluegrassconvention.org