Youth Discoveries

The Road To Summerfolk

An amazing opportunity for youth to be heard and seen by an international crowd.

What is Youth Discoveries ~ The Road to Summerfolk?

Youth Discoveries was created to give young performers an opportunity to experience performing at a major folk festival.  The program offers mentorship, workshops, performance opportunities, networking and more; and fosters a sense of community amongst the up and coming! 
 
Preliminary rounds will take place in 4 cities (Collingwood – March 19, London – March 26, Guelph – April 1, Toronto – April 2)! Our Finale will be held at the Harmony Centre in Owen Sound (890 4th Ave E, Owen Sound, ON N4K 2N7) on Sunday April 30, 2023! Up to 5 finalists will play at the Summerfolk Music & Crafts Festival on August 18-20th, 2023 in Owen Sound, Ontario!
 
For 2023, we are accepting applications from artists aged 14-22!  Here’s what you’ll need to participate:
  • Be between the ages of 14-22 (all group members)
  • Fill out the registration form (here)
  • After filling out registration, a follow-up email will ask you to:
    • Provide a stage plot/input list
    • Provide a high-res photo for promotional purposes
    • Provide a bio or one-sheet
    • Provide all your socials / websites etc.
  • Demonstrate the following (this is what our judges will be looking for!! Hint Hint!):
    • Musical Ability – including lyrical content
    • On-Stage Presence / Interaction with Audience
    • Songwriting / Composition originality
    • For inspired covers – tell us why this song resonates with you!
  • Be ready and able to perform in person at your selected Preliminary Round, Finale Competition in Owen Sound on April 30th, 2023, and Summerfolk 48 in Owen Sound on August 18th-20th. 
 
2 performers from each Preliminary will be selected by our judges panel to move forward to the Finale, along with 4 wild cards chosen once all Preliminary Rounds are completed. Up to 5 Finale performers will be selected to perform at Summerfolk 48.

Am I Eligible For Youth Discoveries?

Can you answer “YES!” to these questions??

The Youth Discoveries program is proudly supported by: