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Country crooners can show their stuff

A music organization's contest will feature performers who, with the right amount of star quality, can move on to bigger stages.

BROOKSVILLE - Some of Hernando County's most promising amateur country singers will have an opportunity to strut their stuff Saturday when the Orange Blossom Country Music Association has its annual showcase and competition at the Hernando County Fairgrounds.

The event will feature 31 singers and musicians, all of whom are members of the local organization. The competition will determine which members represent the club at the state competition in Brooksville in October. The top vote-getters of that event will go on to the North American Country Music Association International conference in Pigeon Forge, Tenn., in March.

"This isn't a karaoke contest," said Pete Doolittle, president of the 40-member chapter, which got its start in 2003. "You're not just being judged on how well you sing, but on how well you can entertain an audience. The more work you put into your music, the better you come out in the end."

According to Doolittle, competitors are limited to performing one song before a panel of three judges. Acts are graded on performance quality, originality, stage presence and choice of material. In addition, points are given for "star quality," based on a performer's confidence and self-determination.

Doolittle, who is not a musician, believes his organization offers aspiring talent a chance to gain some valuable experience and recognition in a nonthreatening atmosphere. The fact that many of the performing members are under the age of 20 underscores the club's family-oriented nature.

"We try to provide guidance in a positive way, especially for the youngsters who are just getting the feel of what it's like to be on a stage," Doolittle said. "Everyone in the club gets an opportunity to be in the spotlight and to have a chance to show what they can do."

Saturday's showcase and competition will include individual and group performances of several country music styles, from traditional country and western, bluegrass and gospel to modern country pop. There is also a category for best original song.

The event will get under way at 9 a.m. in McKethan Auditorium at the Hernando County Fairgrounds. Admission for the public is $15 and includes a catered dinner that will be served at 3:30 p.m. For tickets and information, call Doolittle at 684-7455.

Logan Neill can be reached at lneill@sptimes.com or 352 848-1435.