Music in the Rockies - The Christian Alternative to "American Idol"

One of the best contests around for Christian artists is "Music In the Rockies" put on by the gospel music association. Current top Christian artists such as Point of Grace, Rachael Lampa, Stacie Orrico, Chris Tomlin, Nicole Nordeman, and Michael W. Smith got their start by entering this contest. American Idol's Jordin Sparks also entered the "Music in the Rockies" in 2004.

The contest formally known as "Seminar in the Rockies" was created in 1974 to give an opportunity for artists around the world to learn and showcase their talents in a positive environment. "A Positive Experience" is the key phrase that I would use to describe this competition. There are so many singing contests around the world that demean the artists in front of large crowds and break the confidence of many singers. Rather than enter a contest, hope for the best and leave, Music in the Rockies gives the artist a chance to gain gain extensive knowledge, positive constructive criticism from some of the gospel music industry's top professionals all in a positive retreat type setting.

The contest is held every year during the summer in Estes Park, Colorado. It is a week long event that includes, competitions, seminars and classes conducted by established artists & experts, demo critiques, daily morning worship with experienced worship leaders and nightly concerts by some of the nations top Christian artists!

There are numerous categories in the competition that you can enter to win. They have categories for vocal soloists, groups, and bands as well as instrumentalist in various genres of music including Christian Contemporary, Country and Urban/Hip Hop. Vocalist and instrumentalists can also submit their original song(s) for the songwriting categories.

Music in the Rockies is full of rewards no matter how you look at it. This contest not only has great prizes, for some, it may be life or career altering. Whether you are looking to improve your skills, meet industry leaders or just want to learn & meet other artists from around the world, "Music in the Rockies" is a great experience that you don't want to miss.

For more info on "Music in the Rockies" or to register online, log onto www.Gospelmusic.org. Just imagine, relaxing for a week in the midst of the Rocky Mountains, gaining knowledge from industry leaders, having them critique your demos, and possibly winning in one of the numerous categories that could to take your music career to the next level!