Bands will be judged on a scale of 1-10 using the same criteria as the national competition which includes:
Talent  |  Blues Content  |  Originality  |  Stage Presence  |  Overall Impression

Based on the amount of applications submitted, we will decide how many bands will be allowed to compete. The following are to be considered minimal requirements;

• The band has a current, LVBN "Band Membership" (can be purchased online)
• The band should be able to document that they play in the Lehigh Valley.

In addition to bands competing live, you can also submit your self-produced CD as part of the competition or in addition to performing in Memphis. This is a fairly new category that allows bands to be heard and noticed. To read more about this category, please use the link below for more information. CD submissions will be accepted until June 30th 2008.

The eligibility period is the same as for the Blues Music Awards-the CD must have been released during November 1, 2007 - October 31, 2008 time frame. The LVBN reserves the right to modify or extend submission dates if needed.
 

More detailed information about the IBC can be found at Blues.Org by clicking this link.

The LVBN / IBC Committee reserves the right to make exceptions and determine who will compete. Judging will be done by an independent group of judges. LVBN officers, board members and staff are not eligible to judge. Only bands that are able & prepared to go to Memphis should apply. All submissions should be received via this form ASAP. Bands selected to compete will be notified by July 30, 2009. In the event a selected band is unable to compete, the LVBN reserves the right to invite a replacement or limit the number of competing bands.

The $500 sponsorship payment will be presented after the band returns from Memphis. If for any reason a band cannot go, they forfeit the $500 LVBN sponsorship payment. The LVBN is not responsible for any band expenses, fees, lost or missing CD's etc and will make the selection on a best effort basis. Registration in the national competition is the responsibility of the winning local band.

Instructions:  If you meet the requirements above and want to compete locally for the IBC in Memphis, you MUST have a current "Band Membership" and submit the completed form below.

Submissions for self produced CD - will be accepted providing that two (2) CD's are mailed to the address below, please indicate the 3 songs you want the selection committee to listen to or the first three (3) will be reviewed. CD submissions will be accepted until June 30th 2009.

Mail CD's to: Lehigh Valley Blues Network - PO Box 20865 - Lehigh Valley, PA 18002-0865

LVBN / IBC - Application to Compete