Calling all songwriters!

The longest surviving song contest in Ireland, Glinsk Song Contest, is now preparing for its 22nd annual song contest.Over the years, this contest has proved itself as a significant event for songwriters throughout Ireland.Last year they had a very successful 21st anniversary and now it invites all songwriters to enter its 22nd annual song contest.The final this year will be held on Sunday, July 12. This is a contest which attracts aspiring songwriters from all counties in Ireland and an increasing number of overseas entries.Established songwriters such as Niall Toner, Denis Allen and Charlie McGettigan have taken the honours in Glinsk in years gone by, but it has been won on a number of occasions by writers who were presenting their very first song! In 2008, Cathy and Ciara Newell of Bellefire fame, emerged as winners, while Una Healy who has twice won at Glinsk, is now enjoying great success with the group 'Saturdays'.The deadline for entries for this year"s event is Friday, April 3 and, as usual, it is expected songwriters from every county in Ireland will be submitting songs - thirteen of which will be chosen for the final and will be performed live accompanied by the Glinsk Song Contest Orchestra on Sunday night, July 12.The Irish Music Rights Organisation (IMRO) is the main sponsor of the event which carries a top prize of €1,500 and the winner will also receive a crystal trophy compliments of "Gannon Brothers".Full details are available by writing to Glinsk Song Contest, Glinsk, Via Castlerea, Co. Galway or email glinsk@eircom.netEntry forms can also be downloaded from www.glinsk.com/songcontest