The West Valley Country Music Association’s 8th Annual Songwriting Contest is under way.

This contest is designed to encourage and promote all levels of songwriting talent. If an entrant is younger than 18, a parent or guardian is required to sign on behalf of the songwriter.

Songwriters may enter up to three songs. Contestants will retain all rights of ownership to their songs.

Entry deadline is Saturday, Sept. 20.

For entry forms, contact Lu Anne Camp, president and contest coordinator, at WVCMA66@gmail.com or text 623-556-6071.

All submissions will be screened by a qualified songwriting committee. The top 15 songwriters will be invited to perform their songs at the WVCMA Songwriter’s Contest Showcase at Glendale Main Library Auditorium, 5959 W. Brown St., on Sunday, Oct. 19 at 2 p.m.

A panel of music professionals will judge the top 15 songs on originality, lyric content, music composition and song structure/form. The top three winners will receive cash prizes, award plaques and a one-year membership of the Arizona Songwriters Association.

The remaining 12 finalists will receive certificates of honorable mention.

The 2024 first place winner, Odie Piker, will be performing a special set while the judges tabulate the scores.

The event is free and open to the public.