Nine Contestants Vie for Gaithersburg Top Talent Title
Posted 8/29/2011

In what promises to be a heated competition, nine bands and individual performers will vie for the Top Talent title at this year’s 30th Anniversary Celebrate Gaithersburg in Olde Towne street festival, taking place on Sunday, September 18.  The contestants will take the stage at the City Hall Concert Pavilion at 12:40 p.m., competing for cash prizes, studio time, and the honor of being named the Gaithersburg Top Talent winner.

Auditions for young musicians ages 11 to 21 were conducted over the summer.  The nine finalists represent a broad spectrum of musical styles, with everything from rock and roll to classical violin.  The three bands that will be competing include Pulse, Throwbacks, and Southern Charm.  Six singers and musicians will also be competing as individuals:  Rhea Chung, Shelby Galipo, Jalen Ngonda, Sierra Buck, Laura Searles, and Amanda Lee.

A panel of judges will select the champions, and audience voting, at a cost of $1 per vote, will be factored into the scoring in the event of a tie.  Monies raised from votes will benefit the City of Gaithersburg Student Union, a high school club that promotes and participates in community outreach, service projects, and extracurricular activities for high school students. 

In addition to the music competition, the Top Talent event will also feature dance exhibitions from Jamie Spickler and the Danz-N-Motion team.

Celebrate Gaithersburg in Olde Towne takes place in and around the intersection of Summit and Diamond Avenues in Olde Towne, Gaithersburg.  The event runs from Noon to 5 p.m., and includes the Pat McGee Band, the Taste of Gaithersburg and a beer garden, international arts and crafts, an environmental Green Zone, and lots of activities for children.  Admission and parking are free.  Free shuttle service is available from satellite parking at Lakeforest Shopping Center.  Bike valet service is also available.  For a complete festival schedule visit www.gaithersburgmd.gov/celebrate, or call 301-258-6350.   

Celebrate Gaithersburg is sponsored by MIX 107.3 FM, 105.9 FM The Edge, Washington Parent, and Righttime Medical Center, and is also supported by GEICO and Washington Area Chevy Dealers.