Entries open for Hastings Thrives Songwriting Competition

Judging categories are for under 12 years, 12-16 years and 16-18 years; and for the very first time the public can vote for their favourite song.

You can create your own special song and enter online at http://www.hastingsthrives.org/songcomp5. The closing date is midnight on June 30.

The Judges’ Winners and the Popular Vote Winner will enjoy the experience of professionally recording their song at local recording studio, Yiayia’s.

Artist and songwriter Ed Boxall will judge the under-12s category and YiaYia’s Recording Studio will judge the 16-18 category.

Songwriters must come from Hastings. Only one entry per person/group.

Spokeswoman Jenny Lozano said: “You must complete our online application form, submit and upload your song. It is not possible to send in just your lyrics/written music. If you don’t feel confident to sing/play your work, you can find someone else to do it for you. The judges are judging your song and not your recording quality, performance, vocals and production. They are experienced and can hear the difference between a good song and good production. However, it is possible the popular vote will be influenced by your recording quality.

“Everyone who sends in an entry will receive a certificate of entry.

“Judges may make commendations and feedback depending on the number of entrants.

“There are three Judge’s Winners and one Popular Vote winner. All winners can have their songs professionally recorded by YiaYia’s recording studio in Bohemia Road. We will do our best to make sure a suitable day is found for everyone to attend, when conditions allow.”