Bach Festival seeks young artists to create 2017 artwork

In celebration and recognition of the 20th anniversary of the Stangeland Family Youth Choral Academy, the Oregon Bach Festival is inviting Oregon youth to submit designs for the official 2017 festival artwork.

OBF season artwork has historically been featured on television, billboards, regional and national print publications, digital advertising, the annual Bach festival program book and festival merchandise.

Young artists who want to participate may submit work on one or both of two separate themes: “Experiencing Classical Music During the Oregon Summer” or “Music Education for 21st-century Youth.” Submissions are accepted now through Dec. 31.

A selection committee will choose two winners — one on each theme — and winners will have their work showcased in The Register-Guard. Each winner will also receive festival tickets, live acknowledgement from the stage before the Strangeland Family concert July 11 and a professionally printed and framed copy of their artwork, signed by Artistic Director Matthew Halls.

“I’m very excited to invite the youth in our community to reflect and respond artistically about Oregon Bach Festival and some of the programmatic ideas in the upcoming season,” festival Executive Director Janelle McCoy said. “Through the years, Stangeland Family Youth Choral Academy has produced some of the best and brightest stars in opera, choral music and more. Tying in the visual artistic talents of our region’s youth is the perfect way for us to celebrate this pivotal milestone anniversary.”

Entrants must reside in Oregon and be 18 years old or younger. There is no minimum age. Winning entries will be revealed by The Register-Guard on Jan. 26 to coincide with the announcement of the 2017 festival Lineup. Full rules, guidelines, and more information can be found at http://www.oregonbachfestival.com.

The Stangeland Family Youth Choral Academy is a peak artistic experience for high school choral musicians under the direction of Anton Armstrong. It consists of two weeks performing top choral literature and strengthening a passion for the choral arts through daily rehearsals, classes and workshops.