Anythink LIVE!, Anythink’s music contest for teens, returns for the third year in a row. A celebration of musical creativity, Anythink LIVE! is an opportunity for teens to express themselves and compete for a chance to perform live at Anythink’s Backyard Concert Series. From May 29-June 9, area students in grades 6-12 are invited to submit a demo of their original music. A panel of judges will narrow the selection, and the top acts will be put to a popular vote from July 2-7. Voting will take place online, with prompts on Anythink’s Facebook, Snapchat, Twitter and Instagram accounts, as well as on Anythink’s website. The winner of Anythink LIVE! will perform as opening act for Hazel Miller Band at the Anythink Backyard Concert Series on Friday, Aug. 11, 2017. Winners will be announced at the July 14 show with Gora Gora Orkestar.

All musical styles, including full bands and solo artists, are encouraged to submit their demos via SoundCloud to wfteens@anythinklibraries.org by June 9.

Teens are encouraged to record their original music at Anythink, where they can explore their passions through informal learning opportunities. The Studio, Anythink’s overall approach to hands-on, participatory programming, encourages content creation by providing access to artists in residence, who help empower students to develop skills that are relevant to their lives and interests.  In addition to a digital learning lab at Anythink Wright Farms, which includes a complete recording studio, teens from across the district have access to traveling audio recording kits. These kits provide tools like microphones, audio input and Garage Band to those who wish to record or edit music at their local Anythink.  

Three upcoming songwriting and recording sessions with artists in residence are available for interested Anythink LIVE! participants: Wednesday, May 31, 5-7 pm at Anythink Wright Farms; Thursday, June 1, 4-6 pm at Anythink York Street; and Monday, June 5, 5-7 pm at Anythink Wright Farms.

Funds raised from this summer’s Backyard Concert Series will support the Anythink Foundation and help Anythink to provide special programs and projects for the community.