Emerging musicians: Think you have what it takes to perform at the iconic Tiny Desk? NPR and KSMU want to hear from you.
What is Tiny Desk?
Over five years, nearly 30,000 unsigned musicians from across the country have submitted videos to NPR’s Tiny Desk Contest.
“The Tiny Desk has become a bucket-list destination for musicians all over the world,” said Bob Boilen, creator of the Tiny Desk series. “The Tiny Desk Contest gives some great unknown talents the chance to fulfill their dreams and change the courses of their lives.”
The grand prize winner performs at the Tiny Desk at NPR’s Washington, D.C., headquarters. The individual also participates in a national tour with NPR Music in partnership with NPR member stations.
Other submitting artists are featured on the Tiny Desk webpage and in various NPR content.
How to enter
- At a desk, record video of one original song.
- Upload video to YouTube.
- Submit link with a completed entry form by 11:59 p.m. on April 27.
NPR Music welcomes all genres and entrants from previous years with new material. Artists must be at least 18 years old and live in the United States, U.S. Virgin Islands or the District of Columbia. See all rules.
Celebrate in Springfield with KSMU
All local entries will be featured on KSMU’s Facebook page throughout April.
“KSMU is committed to sharing local music with our community,” said Jessica Balisle, host of KSMU’s live music show “Studio Live.” “We are lucky to have a rich music scene in the Ozarks, and we’re excited to showcase local talent in the Tiny Desk Contest.”
Select local participants will be invited to participate in KSMU’s Local Tiny Desk Showcase at Tie & Timber Beer Co. on May 29. Date is subject to change.
To be considered for these local showcase opportunities, musicians must enter the national Tiny Desk Contest. A committee of KSMU radio hosts will select artists for KSMU’s Local Tiny Desk Showcase.