The High Sierra Music Festival Band Contest is now underway with five regional showcases across the West Coast, spotlighting 20 emerging bands selected as semi-finalists and featuring the expertise of 15 respected judges. In San Francisco on April 17 at the Boom Boom Room, judges Pamela Parker, Andy Gadiel, and Pamela Gerstein will evaluate performances from bands such as ELENA musica, The Fell Swoop, The Humidors, and Tony Glaser Music and The Party. The excitement continues in Marin County at Peri’s Tavern in Fairfax on April 24, where Graham Patzner, Tom Quell, and Erin Chapin will hear from Animal Prince, Prog Frog, San Geronimo, and Suzanimal. 

On the same day in Portland, OR, The Goodfoot Lounge will host another round of remarkable talent with judges Scott Pemberton, Neil Leeborg, and Brett McConnell assessing Family Worship Center, Lost Ox, TapWater, and Three For Silver. The journey then takes the contest to Ashland, OR on April 30 at The Talent Club, where judges Josh Clark, Larry Coble, and Mike Sturgill will decide the fates of adam gabriel & The Cavaliers, Crooked Heart, Family Mystic, and Moonbow. Lastly, Nevada City will welcome contestants on May 1 at the Crazy Horse Saloon & Grill, with Simon Kurth, Ezra Lipp, and Tyler Blue serving as judges for Blü Egyptian, Ginger Molasses, Mount Saint Elias, and Nightbrain. This year’s contest not only showcases incredible regional talent but also brings together a vibrant, diverse community of musicians, fans, and industry veterans, all united in celebration of independent music. High Sierra Music Festival producer Dave Margulies encapsulates the spirit of the event, noting, “The best part about having an in-person component to the Band Contest this year is getting to connect with the High Sierra Community before July.”