The Basement Door Presents
Singer Songwriter Competition 2026
Welcome
Introduction
The Basement Door Singer Songwriter Competition 2026 marks the welcome return of this much-loved event for the first time since before the COVID-19 pandemic. Delivered in partnership with the Richmond Council Civic Pride Fund, the competition celebrates the wealth of emerging musical talent across the borough while providing young singer-songwriters with the opportunity to perform, develop their craft and showcase their original music in a supportive live environment.
The competition has been designed to recognise both exceptional performance and outstanding songwriting. Artists will compete for two awards: Best Cover Performance, recognising excellence in live performance and interpretation of an existing song, and Best Original Song, celebrating creativity, composition and artistic originality.
The competition will take place over three stages. An initial 2–3 week online submission period will invite artists to submit their applications and performance recordings for consideration. Successful applicants will then progress to a series of live heats, where they will perform before an audience and judging panel. The highest-scoring performers from each heat will advance to the Grand Final, where the competition winners will be crowned.
Above all, the competition aims to encourage young musicians to develop their confidence, performance skills and songwriting ability while creating opportunities to perform live, connect with audiences and become part of The Basement Door's growing community of young artists.
Judging Criteria Summary
Each artist will perform three songs:
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Song 1: One original or cover song of their choice.
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Song 2: One cover song.
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Song 3: One original song.
Songs Will be Scored on the following:
Song 1 - Opening Performance - 20 Points
Song 2 – Best Cover Performance - 100 Points
Song 3 – Best Original Song - 100 Points
For more detailed information on judging please read the full guidance document:
Artist Feedback
This event allowed us to network with other bands, opportunity for social media content, and allowed us to play two great shows, in front of sell out crowds.
Backstage Crew Feedback
It was good working in a busy environment as it not only prepares you for working in the music industry but also some jobs in hospitality.
Artist Feedback
Incredible to meet the incredible event team supporting the event and all the other musicians performing!