ZU Arts InitiativeZU Arts InitiativeA ZU Arts Initiative Program
Season 3
A showcase of original music by women singer-songwriters in Southwest Colorado. Every eligible artist who auditions will be selected to perform. Auditions are Thursday, April 30th.
Original voices. Original stories.
Your songs deserve a stage.
Original voices. Original stories. Right here in Southwest Colorado.
Amplified Season 3 is a celebration of women singer-songwriters who write and perform their own original music. Every eligible artist who auditions will be selected to perform. There are no eliminations.
The audition phase includes a panel of judges and a People's Choice award because showing up and sharing your work deserves to be honored. Judging helps us with show placement so we can build the best possible experience for artists and audience alike.
Women are underrepresented on stages, on playlists, and in recording contracts including right here in Southwest Colorado. Amplified exists because representation matters and because we believe the stories of women singer-songwriters deserve a dedicated space to be heard. This is not about exclusion. It is about intentional investment in voices that have historically been overlooked.
Mark your calendar. Audition slots are open until full so reach out early.
Two ways to be heard. Live audition slots are limited so email your intention as soon as possible.
Thursday, April 30th 6PM at ZU Gallery, 48 W Main Street, Cortez, CO.
Each performer has a 10-minute slot to perform two original songs. Professional sound by Abboe Sound and an on-site piano are available. The audition is open to the public.
Live auditions include a Best of Show award selected by a panel of judges and a People's Choice award, both with monetary prizes.
Slots are open until full. Email grow@cortezarts.org to reserve yours.
Deadline: April 30th
Can't make it in person? Record yourself performing one original song and include your name and the town you live in.
Email your video link or file to grow@cortezarts.org.
Video submissions must be received by April 30th.
If you write and perform your own original music and you are based in Southwest Colorado, we want to hear from you.
Women singer-songwriters based in Southwest Colorado
Solo artists and small ensembles welcome
Original music only, no covers
All genres and styles welcome
Amplified was created to amplify women's voices in a music landscape that consistently sidelines them. All performers and support musicians must be women
Must be available September 18 and 19, 2026 in Cortez
A paid performance. Two nights. One community.
Selected performers will be paid to perform at Amplified Season 3 on Friday, September 18 and Saturday, September 19, 2026 in Cortez. Venue to be announced. Depending on the number of artists selected, the two nights may feature the same lineup or two different sets of performers.
Amplified is made possible by the generosity of businesses and individuals who believe in original music and the artists who make it.
Interested in sponsoring Amplified Season 3? LEARN MORE
Audition slots are open until full. Email us today to reserve your spot or submit a video by April 30th. Every eligible artist who auditions performs.
