Fame, Fortune, and a Little Fine Tuning

The Valley Talent Showcase launched last fall to give up-and-coming local bands the chance to play a sizeable venue in front of new listeners and celebrity judges. It’s been held on the first Friday of each month, and so far, so fabulous. Now, hosting venue Gateway City Arts is upping the game by partnering the showcase with Northfire Recording Studio in Amherst and announcing a Super-Playoff on Sept. 9. On that date, the previous months’ winners compete, and the band on top will receive two 10-hour sessions in the studio, with engineers on hand to help create a professional CD — plus a $500 cash prize and a headline gig at the Big E on Sept. 24.

Come out for food, drink, and music. And, while you’re at it, consider entering yourself, or your band, as contestants in an upcoming round of the showcase. Just email your info and an audio sample to marksherry@gatewaycityarts.com.

Valley Talent Showcase Super-Playoff: Friday, Sept. 9. $5-$10 suggested donation. Gateway City Arts, 92 Race St., Holyoke. (413) 650-2670, gatewaycityarts.com.