Youth Songwriting Contest

Real Talent Lives Here!

Saturday Morning • November 14th, 2026 • 10:00 AM
Location: Big Tent at Rustic Frio

We love this part of the weekend. Every year, students from around the Hill Country take the stage and share a song with us, and every year they blow us away. Our judges are Grammy-nominated, award-winning songwriters from Nashville, folks whose songs you’ve probably sung along to in the truck. They’re coming to Leakey because they want to hear your song. Whether it’s a song you wrote or one you love, bring it. We’ll be cheering you on!

Who can enter?

  • Primary and secondary school students

  • Living in Real, Uvalde, or Bandera County

Four $300 cash prizes! Best cover song and best original song in both Primary School and Secondary School.

Competition Details

  • Each performance must be 3–4 minutes long

  • Cover songs and original songs compete in separate categories

  • Instrumental accompaniment is welcome but not required

  • Judged by professional Nashville songwriters

Space is limited so sign up early to secure your spot!

Three young people smiling outdoors, two females and one male, with a crowd seated behind them, microphone stand, and music equipment nearby.

Please complete this form to enter the Songs on the Frio Student Songwriting Competition. Your answers will help our emcee introduce you during the show!

We can’t wait to see you shine on stage!