Enter the Competition

Key Dates

  • Entries Open:
    January 4, 2026
  • Submission Deadline:
    March 22, 2026 (midnight CST)
  • Semifinalists Notified:
    By April 3, 2026
  • Competition Day:
    Saturday, May 2, 2026

What You Need

  • 4 Original Songs
    Each with MP3 file, title, and lyrics
  • Song Length:
    No longer than 5 minutes, under 10MB each
  • Live Performance Link
    (preferably of submitted songs)
  • Entry Fee:
    FREE!

Before You Start

Upload can take 5–10 minutes. We recommend using a desktop or laptop with a strong internet connection.

Have all 4 songs and lyrics ready before starting the form—it's much faster that way!

Frequently Asked Questions

Each entrant must submit lyrics and MP3s for 4 songs through the Songwriter Serenade website. This is important because only songs submitted with the entry can be performed in the contest. A song is defined as a melody with lyrics. Songs may be no longer than five minutes in length and 10MB in file size. Also, please include a link to a live performance, preferably of one or more of the songs submitted to the contest.

Co-written songs may be submitted; however, only one of the writers may apply and perform the song on the day of contest.

Songs submitted must have been written or copyrighted within the past 3 years.

Contestants may not have an accompanist and must perform as individuals (all instruments are, however, allowed).

By April 3, 2026, the 15 semifinalists will be notified of being selected for the Songwriter Serenade via phone and/or email. Each entrant retains all rights to his or her submitted songs.

You'll need to create a Wufoo account (or sign in with an existing one) to submit your entry. It's quick and free.