By Robin Tarnowetzki
Journal Staff Reporter
rtarnowetzki@humboldtjournal.ca
Six musicians from Humboldt and area performed for three judges and a roomful of people in the hopes of becoming a finalist in the Sound Cheque Showcase this past weekend.
"We are so pleased and impressed with all the participants and give them so much credit for getting up there and performing for us," said Tanya Schuler, president of Arts Humboldt. "As the judges stated many times, its a very hard thing to get up there and sing by yourself. You are really putting yourself out there and all the participants did a great job."
The judges were Greg Bay, owner of Center Stage Music; Scott Patrick, the lead singer/guitarist with country band Wyatt; and Ryan Josephson, a Humboldt native who performs improv in Regina and also releases parody songs on Youtube.
While Schuler said there were 16 open spots for participants, having six musicians in the first year was very satisfying.
Each participant performed one cover song for the judges and then received comments. The following is a summary of the musicians:
After a 10-minute break, the judges returned to announce the three finalists. In no particular order, they are:
Jordon Lees (age 22)
How did you get into music?
The cool kids were playing in band and they all kind of stopped playing and I kept going.
What do you think your chances are?
I've secured third place, guaranteed. I have my feet planted.
What do you plan on buying with the money?
A new chord? A fancy chord. I need a bass set really bad. All my bandmates give me crap.
Princess Dianne David (age 16)
How did you get into music?
I started when I was 6 years old through karaoke. Whenever I'm bored I just sing, and music has always been my passion.
What do you think your chances are?
We all have different techniques for singing. These two are amazing.
What do you plan on buying with the money?
Probably a new guitar.
Alanna Hoesgen (age 23)
How did you get into music?
I've always loved music. Started singing when I was a little girl, took piano and voice lessons in school and did classical performing in music festivals in the area, and when that was done just kind of doing my own thing and performing my own music.
What do you think your chances are?
The other two finalists are really amazing. I think we all have our own distinct style; we all have a really good sound. It's a close race. We're neck and neck, I think.
What do you plan on buying with the money?
I'm torn between getting a new keyboard and a mic or recording studio time because I have my own music that I like to perform.
They will perform at the Streetfest stage on Saturday at 7 p.m., and then the winners will be announced. The prizes are a voucher for Center Stage Music or a recording studio. Third prize is $400, second is $600, and first is $1,000.
