Very Helpful Q&A!

If you haven't yet watched the introduction video we posted at the beginning of the school year, click here. It will tell you everything you need to know about the competition. We also suggest that you scroll down through the previous posts to read all the helpful info and updates we post regularly. Click "more posts" at the bottom of the page to see older posts. We understand that not everyone watches the video or reads through the posts, so we have decided address some common questions that keep coming up.

1) How do I enter?

Look for the icon at the top left of this website. Click on it for a drop down menu where all the links will appear in blue. Below the links you will see "How to Enter" instructions along with the email to send your entry to. Follow the instructions. The links contain the entry forms that you will print, fill out, and email to us. The forms also include a checklist of everything you will need to email us to make your entry official. Please check everything off before you email your entry. You do not need to print the entire packet. Only print the forms that are on the checklist. You will get an email response within 24-48 hours. If you do not get a response email again, or text 801-544-3247. 

There are no auditions. All entires that are approved make it straight into the competition. 

2) When is the deadline for entering?

The last day we will accept entries is Friday, January 20th at midnight. We will NOT be able to accept any entries after this date. You may want to text us a heads up if you send in your entry on the deadline day, just in case we don't receive it (801-544-3247). That way we can let you know and you can resend it before midnight. If you miss the deadline we are sorry, but we hope you'll try again next year!

Those who enter early (well before the deadline) will have opportunities to be featured and to promote their band or music ahead of the competition (details coming...)

3) Do I need to bring my own amps and drum set? 

If you are currently in percussion at Layton High, Mr. Follet will allow you to use the school's drum kit. Please let us know before competition day. All other drummers need to bring their own drums. We will have a space backstage where you can set your instruments when you arrive on competition day. You will also need to bring your own amps. Riverton Music will be on hand helping any bands/guitarists with amp issues. As long as you arrive early to attend the sound check we can help make sure your sound is how you want it. We will explain all of this to you in a zoom meeting before competition day. 

4) Do I have to send in a digital recording of my music?

Yes! Every entrant must send in an audio recording of each song with their entry. Bands will send two recordings for two songs, and soloists one entry for one song. It doesn't need to be professional. You can record it on your phone, or send us a link to the recording. We just need to hear your music in it's entirety.

5) Can open MIKE soloists use backup vocals, harmonies, or duets?

No. This will qualify you as a band and you will need to compete in the band competition. Open MIKE can only be one vocalist and one instrument. This is stated clearly in the competition rules. Instruments/accompaniment is not required.

6) Do I have to write an original song?

If you are a band, yes. Bands must perform one cover and one original song. If you are a soloist, no. You may choose a cover song or an original song. 

7) If I am a Jr. High band or soloist will I be representing Layton High?

No. You will be representing your own school. If there are no other entries from your school, you automatically move on to regionals.

8) When and where are multi-regionals?

Multi-regionals will be held on March 4th at Bountiful High. We don't have the time yet but we will be announcing more at the competition. If the winners are unable to attend multi-regionals, the runner ups will take their place. 

9) What prizes do the winners receive? 

Winners move on to multi-regionals. Prizes for the winners will be announced at the competition before it begins. We also have a special "thank you" gift for everyone who enters which you will receive at the end of the competition. 

10) Do I need to buy a ticket to get into the event?

If you are competing in the competition or helping with the competition as an official volunteer you do not need to buy a ticket. All other spectators including parents, family, friends, fans, will need to buy a ticket in order enter the auditorium. Tickets are $5 and are sold online at this link. Please let your family and friends know that they MUST have a ticket to see you perform and they MUST buy their tickets online. We will not be selling tickets at the door, or accepting any cash. We will provide QR codes at the door for scanning and purchasing online. 

Encourage your friends and family to buy their tickets in advance to avoid scanning and buying in the lobby. Unforeseen technical issues with phones, payment, or the website could cause them to miss your performance. All tickets purchased in advance will be on the ticket list under the name of the person who purchased them. 

11) Where do I pick up my free tickets?

We ran a special for early bird ticket sales. Those who purchased tickets during this time received a free ticket for every ticket purchased. Your free tickets will be on the free ticket list at the doors. They will be under your name. The ushers will check off those tickets as they are claimed. 

12) Is there reserved seating? 

No. All seating is general admission which means first come first serve. Please do not reserve rows of seats for guests who have not arrived. 

13) Can spectators film? 

Yes, the audience is welcome to record performances and share, however please do not livestream the event through your phone as this event is not free to the public. We will be professionally recording the entire event and making those links available after the competition. 

14) Any tips to help me out? 

• Good question. We highly recommend that you don't wait until the last minute to enter. Too many things can go wrong that could disqualify your entry. If you miss anything on the checklist or unknowingly violate any rules pertaining to lyrics, ratio of band members, etc. we can catch that in advance and help you make the necessary corrections to qualify your entry. We screen every entry within 24-48 hours of receiving it and let you know if it's been accepted. 

• We also highly recommend every band member in your band to thoroughly read the rules in the competition packet at least a few times, to make sure you don't miss anything. There are tips in there that will help you be successful in the competition. 

• Attend the competition zoom meeting that we will send out after January 20th. This will be your chance to have all your questions answered.

• Bands that have back up singers, vocals, and harmonies tend to impress the judges and score higher at the multi-regional and state levels. 

• Bands should arrive early on competition day. The earliest you may arrive is 2:30 pm. Do what you need to do in advance to make sure you can be in the Layton High auditorium by 2:30 pm. Sound checks/rehearsal end at 3:40 pm. You will have an advantage of sounding better if you attend the sound check. 

• Get plenty of sleep and good rest the week of competition. Don't stress, and have fun!