How does an entertainer get on the LeMars Festival?

We have a very open door policy, but there are some guidelines. We'd like to hear you, either live or through recordings, and you must be acoustic and old-timey in nature. We are also adding a "Traditional Music Showcase" to our festival, which means you will be performing for a number of talent buyers, producers, promoters, etc. Early application is recommended with cd's and tapes. We were fortunate to land Crackerbarrel Restaurants to our list of potential talent buyers, among several others. Do not expect a talent buyer to come racing to you trying to push money in your hand if they like you. They are there to listen to you, judge your performance, estimate how well you might do at their own venue. Don't even expect a talent buyer to introduce himself or herself to you. They aren't that dumb. They know what they are looking for and they will notify you later if they are interested in your talent.

How much do you pay?

Keeping in mind that the entire festival is a fund-raiser for the Pioneer Music Museum, America's Old Time Country Music Hall of Fame, America's Old Time Fiddlers Hall of Fame, and the Oak Tree Opry....not much. Because of the huge number of performers wanting on this festival, the first year is for cd-sales and free tickets to the event. We do try to reimburse performers that actually make a difference in our gate, namely ticket sales. We are the final judges on any entertainers ability to draw an audience, and we are also the final judges on how much we pay anyone. We do not pay foreign guests without work permits.

How can a recording artist get on Prairie Music Records?

We actually created this company for Bob & Sheila Everhart's music, however we have placed other traditional artists on the label. We are not actually in the recording company business, but we can provide you with your needs, be they cd's or tapes.

How can I be nominated for America's Old Time Country Music Hall of Fame?

Only one way, by nomination from someone already in the Hall of Fame.

How can I get booked at the Oak Tree Opry?

Simple, give us a call or e-mail us at bobeverhart@yahoo.com. We have an open door policy, and unless you are really really bad, you'll find a spot on the show.

What are the future plans for the NTCMA?

We'd like to keep going the way we are, adding to the Pioneer Music Museum every year, and to the Halls of Fame. We would like to create an internet music program, and we hope to start our "Old Time Music Hour" radio program back up, as well as "Bus Stop" another fine creative idea. We hope we can do more television shows utilizing traditional acoustic music.

How can I get on a European tour?

This is difficult, Bob & Sheila Everhart have been performing concerts in Europe and Asia for a number of years, but it was difficult to start-up. They will help with advice and information if you ask.

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