After finding inspiration in the winding waters of the Connecticut River, 12 songwriters compete in Greenfield for a $300 first prize and bragging rights as the 2009 winner of the Connecticut River Song Contest finals. In a live concert featuring all the nominees, including Sparkie Allison and Drew Hickum (pictured above left), judges determine the winner based on a set of criteria rating how the songs play in front of a live audience. All songs featured in the contest are about the Connecticut River (or one of its tributaries) and they were submitted by hopefuls from several states. The event also features the official release of a three-song CD by the 2008 winners.
Oct. 25, 4 p.m., Second Congregational Church, 16 Court Square, Greenfield, (413) 772-2020, www.ctriver.org.
