Bitter Jester Music Fest Application_Prelim Form Logo

  • 2021 Bitter Jester Music Festival

    Est. 2006 - 15 Seasons Of Musical Awesomeness!
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  • NEW FOR 2021:

    • $1,000 Grand Prize (plus $750 & $500 for 2nd & 3rd)
    • Every band receives a professional CONCERT PHOTO SHOOT!
    • Every band receives a MULTI-TRACK RECORDING of their set!
    • All 4 Friday winners receive a PROFESSIONALLY MIXED Single!
    • All 4 Wild Cards also receive a PROFESSIONALLY MIXED Single!
    • Top 2 Finalists receive a 2nd PROFESSIONALLY MIXED Single!
    • All Friday concerts now have two Real-Time Commentators!
    • Increased video & photo coverage of all concerts!

    NOTE:

    When you click PROCEED below, you will be taken to the second part of the Application where you will upload media, answer questions about your band (or yourself if a solo performer), and pay your application fee.

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    We've TRIPLED THE PRIZE MONEY for 2021!

    Thanks to the generousity of First Bank of Highland Park, our Grand Finale Title Sponsor, the Grand Prize is now ONE THOUSAND DOLLARS!

    Sign up below... click here to check out our FAQ.

  • "Bitter Jester is the pinnacle of networking, professional feedback, performance opportinities, and media exposure for young bands and solo artists."

    -Nicolas DeGrazia, Founder/Producer

  • PLEASE NOTE: For the purposes of all pages on this Application, the term "band" or "bands" also refers to solo performers wishing to apply.

  • Some important info:

    Early Deadline: Sat. June 26, 2021 (11:59 p)

    Application Deadline: Sat. July 10, 2021 (11:59 p)

    The Bitter Jester Music Festival (BJMF) is the largest professional music showcase and competition for young bands in the Midwest. BJMF is made possible, in part, by support from the City of Highland Park, IL.

    The Bitter Jester Foundation for the Arts, a 501(c)(3) non-profit public charity, produces BJMF and secures many thousands of dollars in prizes for musicians including cash, studio time, MVP Awards, professional photo shoots, instruments, gear, concert tickets, gift certificates, and much more! Trophies are also given out.

    This year's preliminary competitions are Fridays: July 23 & 30 and August 6 & 13. Bands compete on one Friday (you let us know the date(s) you're free). Friday Winners advance to the Grand Finale Concert & Fireworks this year on Sunday, September 5 (Labor Day weekend). Grand Champion, Runner-Up, and Honorable Mention bands are selected along with individual MVP musicains; prizes are awarded.

    THE ONLY REQUIREMENT is that at least half the members of the submitting band must be 22* or younger.

    Traveling far? Let us know if you need help with lodging! We have partnerships with several hotels for reduced rates (first come first served).

    *COVID-19 UPDATE: Typically the age cut-off is 21. However, due to BJMF being cancelled last year we are extendig the age limit by a year.

    If solo artists or bands have missed the age cut-off by one year (i.e. at least half the submitting band must be 22 or younger), your entry will be accepted!

  • ENTER YOUR INFORMATION:

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