Apply to Perform at the National Cowboy Poetry Gathering
The Western Folklife Center is always interested in learning about new artists as well as learning about new projects from old friends. All submissions received will be reviewed. Unlike most events, the artists invited to perform are selected by a committee of cowboy poets and musicians. If you would like to be considered for the 29th National Cowboy Poetry Gathering, currently scheduled for January 28 through February 2, 2013, please submit your information following the guidelines below.

The deadline for applying to perform at  the 29th National Cowboy Poetry Gathering is March 31, 2012. Submissions received with postmarks after March 31, 2012, will be considered for the 30th National Cowboy Poetry Gathering.

General Rules

The Western Folklife Center enjoys bringing in a variety of performers and would like to encourage old and new voices to apply.

NOTE: If you are have been an invited performer to past Gatherings and would like to perform at the 2013 Gathering, you must submit new materials. We encourage you to use new materials so we have your most recent performances and information for the selection committee.

Poets ~ Submit the following:

1. A short biography:

  • emphasizing your connection to ranching and/or cowboying.
  • mentioning any awards and/or honors.
  • listing any publications and/or albums.

2. A paragraph describing any new or different projects or works in progress that you might want to present at the 29th National Cowboy Poetry Gathering. If it varies from cowboy poetry or music, please explain how it would enhance the Gathering.

3. Three poems you think are representative of your repertoire (these poems can be written by you or someone else). Include:

  • a CD or cassette sound recording of you reading/reciting the three poems. Label the CD or cassette with track numbers and the titles of the poems.
  • a written version of the same three poems, with the author noted for each poem.
Musicians ~ Submit the following:

1.  A short biography:
  • emphasizing your connection to ranching and/or cowboying.
  • mentioning any awards and/or honors.
  • listing any publications and/or albums.

2. A paragraph describing any new or different projects or works in progress that you might want to present at the 29th National Cowboy Poetry Gathering. If it varies from cowboy poetry or music, please explain how it would enhance the Gathering.

3. Three songs you think are representative of your repertoire (music can be written by you or someone else). Include:

  • a CD or cassette tape sound recording of you performing the three songs. Label the CD or cassette with track numbers and the titles of the songs.
  • a written list of the three submitted songs. Note the composer of the song and any additional performers on your CD or cassette tape, and the instruments they play.

NOTE: If you perform both poetry and music, please send in a separate submission for each category by including two copies of your bio and short paragraph, the three poems and the three songs, following the guidelines for each above.

Other Performers

The selection committee only reviews poetry and music submissions. If you are a portrayalist, storyteller, playwright or other artist, please call 775-738-7508 for instructions on how to submit your work.

Deadline

Submissions have closed for the 2013 National Cowboy Poetry Gathering. For more information, see "Tips for Applying to Perform at the Gathering," or call 775-738-7508.

Send all applications to:
Western Folklife Center
National Cowboy Poetry Gathering Applications
501 Railroad Street
Elko NV 89801

 
National Cowboy Poetry Gathering Cybercast Button

See photos from prior Gatherings in our Photo Gallery.

Watch Gathering Moments on Film, short and casual "guerilla" videos from prior Gatherings.

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