It’s time to warm up those vocals and instruments.

This year marks the sixth year of the Lake Country Open Mic Has Talent, which spotlights original singers and songwriters from the Okanagan.

Sponsored by the Lake Country Society of Arts and Cultural Events, and supported by Creative Okanagan and the Legion, dates for the 2017 contest are March 2 and April 6 at the Lake Country Coffee House.

“The annual contest was designed to spotlight original singer-songwriters and give them the opportunity to win studio recording time and performance opportunities,” said LCOMHT founder Jennifer Boal, adding, “The Lake Country Coffee House is a cozy venue where local entertainment is celebrated and supported by residents and visitors alike.”

The multi-evening contest allows performers, ages 12 and over, to showcase their music for a panel of judges, and experience the positive feedback from a live audience.

“This annual contest has been rewarded with the wealth of talent that has participated from throughout the Okanagan Valley. Brief video clips from the past contests are available on the website and give you a flavour of the talent we have locally,” said Boal.

Last year’s LCOMHT winner was Michael Painchaud, who performed in the final event with Dale Zeich, Hugh Spinney, Shaedan Hawse, Eric Hiltz, Juan O’Quinn, and Santana Cabral.

This year’s prizes include professional audio recording/production time, as well as opportunities to perform at Peachfest, Music in the Park (West Kelowna), Parks Alive, the Lake Country Coffee House, LIVE in Lake Country, ArtWalk, Vernon’s Sunshine Festival, the Armstrong IPE, and elsewhere.

Registration forms for the 2017 contest are available at the Lake Country Coffee House, 10345 Bottom Wood Lake Rd., or can be downloaded at www.lakecountryopenmic.ca.