Finalists Announced for the 2023 LEAF Songwriter Competition

NewSong Music announced the eight finalists who will perform at this year’s LEAF Songwriter Competition.

The event is a collaborative effort between NewSong Music and LEAF Global Arts. It aims to identify and recognize exceptional performers and songwriters from across the country. The finalists are invited to network and compete at the LEAF Retreat, on Saturday, May 13, 6:30-9:30 p.m. in Eden Hall.

This year’s finalists for the LEAF competition are: Corrie Lynn Green (Early Bird Finalist), a country-tinged folksinger from Port republic, Va.; Melodic, emotive, and punk-informed The Accidentals, who formed in Michigan by are now based in Nashville; singer and multi-instrumentalist Kate Prascher, from Highland, N.Y., who is best known for her evocative songwriting; singer-songwriter Josh Batenhorst — aka Captain Josh — from Asheville, N.C.; Wellesley, Mass.-based songwriter Maggie Monaghan; MaisCeu, from Lenoir, N.C. whose music is inspired by Brazil and the Blue Ridge Mountains; singer-songwriter Jess Clemons from Portland, Ore.; and Lyle de Vitry from Asheville, N.C., who crafts thoughtful melodies and poetry.

The winner of the LEAF Songwriter Competition, selected from a panel of music industry judges, will earn a spot as one of only eight finalists at the annual International NewSong Competition, held in Asheville in the fall. The winner will also return to the LEAF Festival, held October 19-22, 2023, as a featured, paid performer.

The LEAF Songwriter Competition is always a memorable experience where songs are shared, friendships are forged, and great music finds a welcome and supportive audience. It’s worth noting that the event is not intended to be a cut-throat music competition. Instead, NewSong is committed to building and supporting a community and network of outstanding artists.

About LEAF Global Arts

LEAF Global Arts is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit organization with a mission to connect cultures and create community through music and arts. LEAF is composed of two key cultural arts education programs — LEAF Schools & Streets and LEAF International — as well as two signature events: LEAF Retreat (May) and LEAF Festival (October). Since 1995, LEAF has served more than 200,000+ youths with programs in more than 15 community locations and in 10 countries worldwide. www.theLEAF.org