The Future of American Roots Music

The Youth Talent Competition encourages a new generation of American roots musicians by offering performance opportunities and exposure at the festival. The tradition began more than 19 years ago when four-time GRAMMY Winner Sarah Jarosz took first place. The competition continues to be a fertile ground for the development of young artists. Sarah Grace, semi finalist on Season 15 of the Voice, won the Youth Talent Competition in 2018.

2023 Youth Talent Competition Winner

Audry Bryant is a singer/songwriter from Pasadena Texas. She began performing live at the age of 12 and has played shows all over the Houston and Austin metropolitan area’s. She has been playing guitar, ukulele, and crafting her own songs for over seven years. Audry understands what it’s like to be a young performer and is passionate about helping others with the craft. She is currently still pursuing music, playing shows when the opportunity arises. Her biggest musical inspirations range from Bob Dylan, Townes van Zandt, and Jeff Buckley, to Phoebe Bridgers, Elliot smith, and RadioHead. Audry has a strong love for music and is passionate about sharing that love with others.

Entry Information

Eligibility

The Youth Talent Competition is limited to contestants 18 years old and younger. Most contestants perform solo on a single instrument, however a contestant may have up to 2 supporting musicians.

Preliminary Contests

Each of the 3 preliminary contests are limited to 5 contestants.  A contestant consists of either a solo performer or a group of up to 3 performers. OSMF will select the first 5 qualified applicants and 2 alternates for each of the preliminary contests. Applicants selected to perform will be notified no later than 2 weeks prior to the competition. To apply, fill out the registration form below.  A panel of 3 judges will select 1 winner from each preliminary contest.  The winner from each of the 3 preliminary contests will go on to compete in the final contest at the next Old Settler’s Music Festival.

Fees

There is no fee to apply for either the preliminary or final contests.  Each youth contestant must be accompanied by 1 adult chaperone.  Only the youth contestant (including their backing musicians) and 1 adult chaperone will receive a Saturday General Admission Pass to Old Settler’s Music Festival.  Additional accompanying children and adults must purchase passes.  Festival/venue rules apply for all contestants and chaperones for all contests.

Performance Guidelines For Preliminary Contest

Contestant selected to compete in any of the 3 preliminary contests must follow these guidelines when choosing what music to perform:

• Two-song performance set, covers and/or originals – 10-minute set maximum
• American roots music – bluegrass, country, blues, gospel or traditional
• Acoustic instruments only – no amplifiers, electronics or drum sets

Performance Guidelines For Final Contest

Contestant selected to compete in the final contests must follow these guidelines when choosing what music to perform:

• 20 minute performance set, covers and/or originals
• American roots music – bluegrass, country, blues, gospel or traditional
• Acoustic instruments only – no amplifiers, electronics or drum sets

All guidelines are subject to change without prior notice.

Prizes:

A panel of 3 judges will select one winner from the final contest. The judges’ decisions are final.

Final Contest Winner will receive:

• $500
• 45-minute showcase during festival the following year
• Professional feedback on contest performance
• Special mention from the main stage

Questions

Info on our next Youth Talent Competition  will be posted when available.

2023 – Audrey Bryant
2022 – Charlotte Hills
2021 – Elle Townley
2019 – Elijah Delgado
2018 – Sarah Grace and The Soul
2017 – Sophie Scott
2016 – Griffin Carter
2015 – Joelton Mayfield
2014 – Alexander Nobles
2013 – Katy Kirby
2012 – Kimberly Zielnicki

2011 – Grace London
2010 – Minnie & Ella Jordan
2009 –  Sara Mueller
2008 – The Fireants
2007 – Emily Elbert
2006 – Samantha Miller
2005 – Justine Blakely & Charlie Pomroy
2004 – Ashlee Rose
2003 – Isaac-Bryant Kids
2002 – Spurs of the Moment, featuring Sarah Jarosz