This same event was held in 1971 at Calvert City’s Centennial and we’re bringing it back!

The overall winner of the contest will be asked to participate in the parade that evening at 6:00 PM. It is $10 to enter the contest and payment is due the day of the event at the Calvert City Tent. The deadline to pre-register is June 25.

Please arrive at the Calvert City Amphitheater (1072 5th Ave, Calvert City) no later than 1:30 PM. Arriving late will disqualify you from the contest.

Each performer must play a hoedown (reel/breakdown, suitable for square dancing) and a waltz. A maximum time of three (3) minutes will be allowed for the two tunes. This time will begin when the contestant starts to play. Contestants may restart tune in event of a broken string or unavoidable problem.

No sheet music is allowed in the stage area. The order of appearance for all divisions will be drawn randomly by a committee member and posted. Contestants must be ready to play when notified.

The performance will be judged using traditional old-time fiddling criteria, including intonation, skill, timing control, rhythm suitability for selected tune, danceability, and overall ability. In the event of a tie, or at the judges’ discretion, callbacks will be held.

Rules and Standards are available. Sample score sheets are available.

Contestants are asked to conduct themselves with common courtesy and a spirit of fair play. Contact microphones and amplified instruments will not be permitted during any division. No trick fiddling allowed during contest appearances. No cross-tuning on stage.

All decisions of the judges and the contest committee will be final.

Prizes given in each division:
1st – $500
2nd – $200
3rd – $100
Overall Winner – $500 and a plaque