Time to channel your inner Paul Simon. Or Neil Simon.
The Bethesda Arts & Entertainment district is hosting a contest to award up-and-coming local songwriters.
The Bethesda Bernard/Ebb Songwriting Awards offer a grand prize of $10,000 for the best songwriter in any genre, and a prize of $2,500 for songwriters under 18.
Founded by Bethesda Arts & Entertainment District President Cathy Bernard, the contest is named in honor of her uncle, Fred Ebb, lyricist on classics like “New York, New York” and Broadway shows “Cabaret” and “Chicago.”
“This competition was created to honor regional musicians and award local artists for their songwriting talent,” Bernard said in a release. “I am personally honored to be able to support this important program in my uncle’s name because the musical arts were such an integral part of who he was and it’s of great importance to continue honoring creativity and aspiring songwriters.”
The contest includes several rounds of judging by professional artists, music teachers and others in the music industry. A grand prize jury will select the finalists, who will perform for a live audience at the Bethesda Blues and Jazz Club. The winners will be announced at the end of the March 6 performance.
Contestants must be permanent residents of Maryland, Virginia or Washington, and may submit three original songs. Songs must include lyrics and may not be more than four minutes long.
Entries must be received by Dec. 5. For more information, call 301-215-6660 or go to www.bethesda.org.