Welcome to our Writing Worship 
Songwriters Competition.
The Bible instructs us to “Sing a New Song to the Lord.” Where do those songs come from? From inside of you.
No matter your age, you can compose worship. This Writing Worship Competition is an opportunity to showcase your talents, earn prizes while worshipping the Lord!
Let’s Get Started!
Welcome to our Writing Worship Songwriters Competition. We are so excited to have you participate in this opportunity to worship God through creativity. Whether you are just starting or are an advanced composer and songwriter, there is a place for you to express your love for God through songwriting. Let's hear more about it from Mrs. Denie Riggs!
We hope you are excited! Before selecting your age group, let's go over some general details of this competition:
How it Works:
- Select your age group category. In the following accordions, you will find five age groups, each corresponding to a specific set of requirements or skill levels created to best fit the recommended age group for each category.
- View all the videos and written content for your age group before you start. We have specific requirements, so view all instructions before you get started. Any entry not completing the format, will be disqualified. We recommend that everyone view Mrs. Denie's Prep Video before you start. (See next accordion)
- Take it step-by-step. Follow the guidelines! We can't wait to hear what you come up with!
- Pay the Application Fee. In each category, a link is provided to register for the contest and submit the application fee. Once paid, the application fee is non-refundable.
- Fill Out the Submission Form. Following the instructions carefully, fill out the submission form provided in each category and send it in! You may enter up to 5 songs per person, with discounted App Fee on your additional songs.
Submission Deadline:
The submission window will close on February 1st, 2025, so be sure to get in your songs before the deadline!
Judging and Prizes:
Once we have passed the submission deadline, our team of judges will review each song and grade it according to a rubric. The goal of the rubric is to objectively review each song against some of the most important elements of songwriting. You will want to review these elements before beginning your composed song!
Each age category has age-specific prizes and awards. Those are listed in each category's accordion. They will be awarded after submission deadline. There is a limit of one prize per student, but sending in multiple songs can increase your chances of getting first place!
We are bringing the competition into it's final stages at our Songwriter's Workshop on February 22, 2025 as we spend the day with Mr. Lenny Leblanc. Some of the prizes earned are included with this event. 1st prize winners in each category will win the opportunity to PERFORM their original song at his concert that evening. See accordion below for more information.
Judging Rubric:
The goal of the rubric is to objectively review each song against some of the most important elements of songwriting. The specific rubrics are given in each age category.
Important Rules and Guidelines:
- Parents, Grandparents, Siblings and others cannot help with the composition. It must be sole the work of the applicant.
- Songs submitted must follow the guidelines provided for each category. Any submission that fails to adhere to the guidelines will be disqualified.
- Songs submitted must be completely original work and cannot have won or been submitted for any other contest prior to this one.
- Students may submit more then one entry, but prizes are limited to one per student
- By submitting this song, contestants agree to:
- The song and video being used in promotional material for Perfect Praise Music.
- The song and video being distributed to judges for review and critique.
- The song and video being posted on Perfect Praise's YouTube and Social Media platforms and in playlists along with other contest submissions.
About Copyright:
In the United States, copyright protection for your original song begins the moment you fix it in a tangible form, such as through a lead sheet or a recorded video. This means that as soon as you write down your melody, lyrics, or any musical notation, you establish your rights as the creator. To maintain your copyright, ensure that your lead sheet is clearly labeled with your name and the date of creation. Additionally, while registration with the U.S. Copyright Office is not required, it provides legal benefits and is advisable if you plan to pursue any commercial interests. By submitting your lead sheet and video in this competition, you continue to hold the rights to your work.
Click here to register your copyright (Note: This step is NOT required by us.)
For more information about how your copyright will apply to this competition, check out the Submission form!
Submission Process:
- Each skill level will have it's own set of guidelines and instructions for each category, so the first step is to follow those instructions and create your song!
- A link is provided in each category for you to register for the contest and pay your Application Fee. This step enrolls you into the contest. (Note: the App Fee varies by category)
- Complete the Submission Form, attach your performance video and a scanned in version of your written song. Our team looks forward to hearing your new song!
- Look for the deadline given in the Registration Link in your category information!
Sharpen that pencil and get ready to have fun and do your best!
No matter what age category you find yourself in, it is helpful to know how to prepare for your song. Mrs. Denie has some helpful tips to get you ready to start writing songs like a pro!
Staff Paper: 
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Open in new tab Different categories may require different types of staff paper. You are welcome to use your own staff paper, and there are some paper given in each category, but if you want something else, check out these types below.
We are so excited to have you be a part of this competition! Mrs. Denie will tell us more about our Little's Category:
Here are details and materials for our Little's Category:
Theme: Celebrate Creation!
Mrs. Denie's Example: To help you get started, Mrs. Denie will walk you through the process!
Instructions, Rhythm Pattern and more:
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Prizes for Little's Category: Age-specific prizes for children ages 4 and under.
- 1st Place Prize:
- $35 Cash Prize
- 1st Place trophy
- Certificate of Accomplishment
- Winner will be invited to PERFORM their song for the Lenny Leblanc Concert on February 22, 2025. (2 FREE seats) See below for Songwriter's Workshop and Concert.
- 2nd Place Prize:
- $25 Cash Prize
- 2nd Place Trophy
- Certificate of Accomplishment
- 3rd Place Prize:
- $15 Cash Prize
- 3rd Place Trophy
- Certificate of Accomplishment
- Every qualifying entry* for this age group will earn a Participation Medal and a Certificate of Accomplishment
*Notes: *Qualifying Entries: Part of the criteria our judges will be reviewing is if the child did their own work. Entries, who we feel had too much help, will not be qualified, nor awarded. So let your child do the work! **Trophy Shipping fees will apply, if not local to Huntsville AL.
Judging Rubric:
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Submission:
Once you've completed your song, send it via the steps below!
- The first step to register your song is to pay your Application Fee. Application Fee for your first song is $30. Click here to pay the Application Fee.
Notes: Your Application Fees are not refundable for any reason. So be sure to submit qualified songs, by completely following the directions! You may submit up to 4 additional songs (for a total of 5 entries). Songs 2-5 may be registered for the contest at 50% off Application Fee, using the Coupon Code: WriteMore at checkout. Only one winning entry per person, judges will select your best entry.
2. After you have paid the Application Fee to register that song, you must submit your song via the Submission Form. Click here to Submit Your Song.
Welcome to our Children's Category of our Writing Worship Songwriters Competition. Let's learn more about the Children's Category with Mrs. Denie Riggs!
Theme: Noah's Ark Scripture: Genesis chapters 6, 7, 8
Example Video and Tips: Mrs. Denie shares step-by-step example to help get you started. Note: You cannot use her words or notes!
Instructions:
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Prizes for Children's Category: Age-specific prizes for children ages 5- 8 years.
- 1st Place Prize:
- $35 Cash Prize
- 1st Place trophy
- Certificate of Accomplishment.
- Invited to attend both Modules of Songwriter's Workshop February 22, 2025 (2 paid seats)
- Invited to PERFORM your song at Lenny LeBlanc's concert on February 22, 2025 6:00 p.m. (2 paid seats)
- 2nd Place Prize:
- $25 Cash Prize
- 2nd Place Trophy
- Certificate of Accomplishment
- Invited to attend both Modules of Songwriter's Workshop, February 22, 2025 (2 paid seats)
- 3rd Place Prize:
- $15 Cash Prize
- 3rd Place Trophy
- Certificate of Accomplishment
- Invited to attend both Modules of Songwriter's Workshop, February 22, 2025 (2 paid seats)
- Every qualifying entry* for this age group will earn a Participation Medal and a Certificate of Accomplishment
*Notes: *Qualifying Entries: Part of the criteria our judges will be reviewing is if the child did their own work. Entries, who we feel had too much help, will not be qualified, nor awarded. So let your child do the work! **Trophy Shipping fees will apply, if not local to Huntsville AL.
- Rubric:
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Submission:
Once you've completed your song, send it via the steps below!
- The first step to register your song is to pay your Application Fee. Application Fee for your first song is $30. Click here to pay the Application Fee.
Notes: Your Application Fees are not refundable for any reason. So be sure to submit qualified songs, by completely following the directions! You may submit up to 4 additional songs (for a total of 5 entries). Songs 2-5 may be registered for the contest at 50% off Application Fee, using the Coupon Code: WriteMore at checkout. Only one winning entry per person, judges will select your best entry.
2. After you have paid the Application Fee to register that song, you must submit your song via the Submission Form. Click here to Submit Your Song.
Welcome to our Writing Worship Songwriters Competition for children ages 9 - 12 years. We are so excited to hear your new song! Let's learn more about the Adolescent Category with Mrs. Denie!
Theme: David and Goliath Scripture: I Samuel 17
Mrs. Denie's Tips and Guidelines: Mrs. Denie shares tips and ideas to help get you started! Note: You cannot use her words or notes!
Instructions:
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Prizes for Adolescent Category: Age-specific prizes for children ages 9 - 12 years.
- 1st Place Prize
- $35 Cash Prize
- 1st Place Trophy
- Certificate of Accomplishment
- Invited to attend both Modules of Songwriter's Workshop February 22, 2025 (2 paid seats)
- Invited to PERFORM your song at Lenny LeBlanc's concert on February 22, 2025 6:00 p.m. (2 paid seats)
- 2nd Place Prize:
- $25 Cash Prize
- 2nd Place Trophy
- Certificate of Accomplishment.
- Invited to attend both Modules of Songwriter's Workshop February 22, 2025 (2 paid seats)
- 3rd Place Prize:
- $15 Cash Prize
- 3rd Place Trophy
- Certificate of Accomplishment
- Invited to attend both Modules of Songwriter's Workshop February 22, 2025 (2 paid seats)
- Every qualifying entry* for this age group will receive a Participation Medal and Certificate of Accomplishment
*Notes: *Qualifying Entries: Part of the criteria our judges will be reviewing is if the child did their own work. Entries, who we feel had too much help, will not be qualified, nor awarded. So let your child do the work!
**Trophy Shipping fees will apply, if not local to Huntsville AL.
Rubric:
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Submission:
Once you've completed your song, send it via the steps below!
- The first step to register your song is to pay your Application Fee. Application Fee for your first song is $40. Click here to pay the Application Fee.
Notes: Your Application Fees are not refundable for any reason. So be sure to submit qualified songs, by completely following the directions! You may submit up to 4 additional songs (for a total of 5 entries). Songs 2-5 may be registered for the contest at 50% off Application Fee, using the Coupon Code: WriteMore at checkout. Only one winning entry per person, judges will select your best entry.
2. After you have paid the Application Fee to register that song, you must submit your song via the Submission Form. Click here to Submit Your Song.
Welcome to the Teen Category for our Writing Worship Songwriters Competition! This group is for teenage musicians who may be experienced in songwriting and want the chance to showcase their gifts. The rules for this group are a little different than the rest. Let's learn about it from Mrs. Denie!
Here are some insturctions to help you get going on your song!
Here is one of our favorite worship songs based on the Psalms "How Majestic is Your Name" by Michael W Smith. This version is performed by Sandi Patti!
Theme: Psalms of Praise
Requirements:
- No longer than 3:30
- There must be a video submission and lead sheet with both melody, chord symbols, AND lyrics provided
- Have fun!
Prizes for this Category:
- 1st Place Prize
- $50 Cash Prize
- 1st Place Trophy
- A one-on-one critique appointment with Mr. Lenny LeBlanc in Module 2
- Invited to attend both Modules of Songwriter's Workshop February 22, 2025 (2 paid seats)
- Invited to attend FREE and PERFORM your song in the concert that same evening.
- 2nd Place Prize:
- $35 Cash Prize
- 2nd Place Trophy
- Invited to attend both Modules of Songwriter's Workshop February 22, 2025 (2 paid seats)
- 3rd Place Prize:
- $25 Cash Prize
- 3rd Place Trophy
- Invited to attend both Modules of Songwriter's Workshop February 22, 2025 (2 paid seats)
*Notes: *Trophy- shipping fees will apply if remote.
Rubric:
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Lead Sheet Paper:
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Lead Sheet Example:
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Submission:
Once you've completed your song, send it via the steps below!
- The first step to register your song is to pay your Application Fee. Application Fee for your first song is $65. Click here to pay the Application Fee.
Notes: Your Application Fees are not refundable for any reason. So be sure to submit qualified songs, by completely following the directions! You may submit up to 4 additional songs (for a total of 5 entries). Songs 2-5 may be registered for the contest at 50% off Application Fee, using the Coupon Code: WriteMore at checkout. Only one winning entry per person, judges will select your best entry.
2. After you have paid the Application Fee to register that song, you must submit your song via the Submission Form. Click here to Submit Your Song.
Welcome to the Adult Category of our Writing Worship Songwriters Competition! This group is for adult musicians who may be experienced in songwriting and want the chance to showcase their gifts. This group has the least amount of guidelines, so let your creativity run free! Let's learn about it from Mrs. Denie!
Here are some instructions to help you get started!
Theme: An Abundant Life John 10:10
- 1st Place Prize
- $50 Cash Prize
- 1st Place Trophy
- A one-on-one critique appointment with Mr. Lenny LeBlanc in Module 2
- Invited to attend both Modules of Songwriter's Workshop February 22, 2025 (2 paid seats)
- Invited to attend FREE and PERFORM your song in the concert that same evening.
- 2nd Place Prize:
- $35 Cash Prize
- 2nd Place Trophy
- Invited to attend both Modules of Songwriter's Workshop February 22, 2025 (2 paid seats)
- 3rd Place Prize:
- $25 Cash Prize
- 3rd Place Trophy
- Invited to attend both Modules of Songwriter's Workshop February 22, 2025 (2 paid seats)
Notes: *Trophy Shipping fees will apply, if not local to Huntsville AL.
Rubric:
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Requirements:
- Worship composition centered around the theme “An Abundant Life John 10:10"
- The song must be no longer than 3:30 minutes
- Video presentation playing and singing the worship composition
- Lead sheet with melody, chord symbols, and lyrics
Lead Sheet Paper:
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Submission:
Once you've completed your song, send it via the two steps below!
- The first step to register your song is to pay your Application Fee. Application Fee for your first song is $65. Click here to pay the Application Fee.
Notes: Your Application Fees are not refundable for any reason. So be sure to submit qualified songs, by completely following the directions! You may submit up to 4 additional songs (for a total of 5 entries). Songs 2-5 may be registered for the contest at 50% off Application Fee, using the Coupon Code: WriteMore at checkout. Only one winning entry per person, judges will select your best entry.
2. After you have paid the Application Fee to register that song, you must submit your song via the Submission Form. Click here to Submit Your Song.
Mr. LeBlanc will be spending the day with us on February 22, 2025. There will be two modules of training in this amazing opportunity and a concert that same evening. These events are not just for our competition winners; it's for everyone!
Consider bringing your family for this amazing training from one of the most well-known songwriters in our area!
- February 22, 2025
- Hilton Garden Inn, The Saturn Room, 4801 Governors Drive, Huntsville. AL 35805
Learn More about Lenny LeBlanc here.
Songwriter's Workshop event. Follow this link to learn more about it and to register for this Songwriter's Workshop.
Mr. Lenny LeBlanc in Concert: 1st Place winners in each category will have opportunity to PERFORM in his concert! Follow this link to save your seat in the Lenny LeBlanc Concert on February 22, 2025 6:00 p.m.
One of the best parts of this competition is that we get to celebrate everyone's creativity in worshiping the Lord! While we do have to pick winners in each category, we still wanted a way to celebrate everyone's creativity. With that in mind, we have compiled all the submissions into a YouTube playlist for you to enjoy! By using the playlist below, you can watch all of the submissions from your peers. Check it out below:
The Playlist for all of your submissions will be created shortly after the submission deadline on February 1st, 2025. Check back then to see all of the wonderful songs created for this contest!
Note: All videos used in this playlist are from consenting contestants who chose to share thier submissions with the public. The order of entires displayed on this playlist does not represent the order or rankings of the submissions. All winners will be announced at the end of the competition.
