Cathy Jamieson MP

Kilmarnock and Loudoun

Rock the House

Cathy is calling on all budding musicians in Kilmarnock and Loudoun to take part in Rock the House 2012, the second annual Parliamentary live music competition.

Cathy has the chance to nominate the best solo artist, band, under-18 act and small live venue from the area to go forward and compete nationally in front of a panel of international music industry experts and musicians.

Finalists will take part in a live battle of the bands on May 30, competing for prizes including music equipment, the chance to play at top UK music venues and festivals, and the opportunity to mingle with the great and the good of the music industry.

The winners in each category will also be invited to perform live at a reception on the Terrace at the House of Commons.

Cathy said:

“This is a fantastic opportunity for unsigned acts to get that crucial break, and the recognition and contacts entrants can get from taking part is priceless.

“It would be great to put the constituency on the map for its artistic talent and I would urge all musicians and live music venues to fill in an application form and send it to me.”

The aim of the competition is to support the UK live music sector and to raise awareness of the importance of intellectual property rights, and live music, among parliamentarians.

Musicians and live music venues can find all the necessary forms and information at www.rockthehouse2012.com and should send their nominations to Cathy at cathy.jamieson.mp@parliament.ukby March 16. Daily updates on the competition are also available on twitter @RockTheHouseHOC and on Facebook.