The 2012 “Gathering in the Gap” Music Festival, which will be held at the Southwest Virginia Museum Historical State Park in Big Stone Gap on May 26th, offers an opportunity for area musicians to test their skills in a variety of musical competitions.
Performers can compete in old-time and bluegrass divisions and on multiple instruments.
Music competition at Gathering in the Gap
Categories include lap dulcimer, banjo, fiddle, bluegrass guitar, bluegrass mandolin, bluegrass band, and old-time band. Two age groups will compete in all categories except bluegrass band and old-time band: 17 and under and 18 and over.
Judges will use the following criteria in scoring the contestants: arrangement, rhythm and timing, musicianship, technique, and stage presence. When scoring musicianship, the judges will be looking for tasteful, dynamic, and entertaining performances. Scores for technique will be based on the technical competence of a contestant’s fingering, bowing, or picking.
A fun competition at the Gathering in Gap
Cash prizes and trophies will be presented to winners in each category.
Each contestant must fill out a registration form and pay admission to the festival. There is no additional cost for the competitions. All competitors will play two songs: one fast and one slow. All competing bands must consist of three or more members. For a complete set of competition rules, a schedule of events, or a downloadable registration form, please visit the festival website., click on “Competitions.” For more information about any of the festival events, please call the Museum at 276-523-1322 or visit the website mentioned above.
Southwest Virginia Museum, Historical State Park, 10 West First Street, Big Stone Gap, VA 24219-0742; phone: (276) 523-1322; email swvamuseum. Learn more about park offerings by calling 1-800-933-PARK or email resvs. Be sure to specify the park of interest.
