Twelve young musicians took to the stage at the Living Skies Teen Vocal Showcase sponsored by SaskMusic and held in Humboldt on June 24.
Judges Ray Whitton, Allyson Reigh, and Sarah Miller did not have an easy time of it as they only choose five young performers to move on to the final round of competition in Kenaston during the Hillbilly Boogie’s August long weekend.
Performers from all over central and northern Saskatchewan descended on Humboldt with performers ranging in age from 12-19 and many playing their own instruments and singing original music.
After the final note had been sung, it would be Bruno’s Makayla Glessman, Paige Pain and Aeryal Mongovius from Saskatoon, Relan Meeks from Prince Albert, and Marentin Fehr from Leoville who would be moving on to the final round.
Malcolm Foster brought the event back to Humboldt with a new twist. Compared to last year’s event sponsored by the Saskatchewan Country Music Association, this year’s event included all genres of music through the partnership with SaskMusic. Having that support has been phenomenal, he says, with the competition being reflective of the Saskatchewan music scene; everyone helping everyone.
Support for the event ensured that young people playing in their basements get a chance to come out and perform, says Whitton.
“Somebody’s got to take the reins,” he says.
The competition is a way to provide mentorship and encouragement for the next generation of Saskatchewan musicians, says Foster.
With more recording studios in the province compared to previous years, the competition is a first step for some musicians.
Four performers will also be chosen from nine competitors in Regina on July 8 with another performer from either competition receiving a wildcard entry into the final.
The grand prize is a Fender guitar and cash prizes for the top three.
