ARTSCAPE 2025 BAND SELECTION ADJUDICATION PROCESS
To ensure a fair and transparent selection process, BOPA has established a structured adjudication process for evaluating band submissions for Artscape 2025. Our goal is to create a diverse lineup of talented local artists that represent the vibrancy of Baltimore’s music scene.
PHASE 1: ELIGIBILITY REVIEW
Initial Screening – BOPA staff will review all submissions to ensure they meet basic eligibility requirements:
✅ Complete application (all required materials submitted)
✅ Baltimore-based or Maryland-affiliated artists given priority
✅ Originality & artistic merit (cover bands will be considered but preference given to original acts)
✅ Ability to perform a full set (45–60 minutes, depending on the stage)
Incomplete or ineligible applications will not move forward.
PHASE 2: ARTISTIC REVIEW
A jury panel will score each submission based on the following 100-point rubric:
Musical Quality & Originality (40 points)
● Artistic merit, musicianship, and overall sound
● Creativity, originality, and genre representation
Live Performance Potential (30 points)
● Energy, stage presence, and ability to engage a crowd
● Quality of submitted live performance video (if available)
Diversity & Community Representation (20 points)
● Contribution to the diversity of the festival lineup (genre, culture, style)
● Connection to the Baltimore/Maryland arts scene
Marketing & Professionalism (10 points)
● Strength of online presence, branding, and promotional readiness
● Ability to attract an audience to Artscape
Each judge will submit individual scores, and an average will be calculated for each band.
PHASE 3: FINAL CURATION & SELECTION
Lineup Balancing & Scheduling
● Top-scoring acts will be placed into lineup slots based on stage availability and genre balance.
● Efforts will be made to include a mix of emerging and established artists.
● Special consideration will be given to artists who bring unique, high-energy, and engaging performances.
Notifications & Next Steps
● Selected artists will be notified via email by April 4th with performance details.
● Bands must confirm their participation by April 11th of notification.
● A waitlist will be maintained in case of cancellations.
CONTRACT & PAYMENT PROCESS
All selected bands must complete the following steps to finalize their participation in Artscape 2025:
STEP 1: CONTRACT ISSUANCE
Notification & Contract Delivery
● Selected artists will receive an official performance contract via email.
● The contract will outline performance details, payment terms, and festival guidelines.
STEP 2: CONTRACT REVIEW & EXECUTION
Review & Sign
● Bands must carefully review all terms and conditions before signing.
● No exceptions will be made after the contract is signed.
Execute the Contract
● All contracts must be fully executed (signed by both parties) and submitted by the stated deadline.
STEP 3: W-9 SUBMISSION & Stripe.COM ACCOUNT SETUP
Tax Documentation
● A completed W-9 form is required for payment processing.
● The W-9 must be submitted no later than one week before the festival.
Electronic Payment Setup
● All payments will be made electronically through Stripe.com.
● Bands must create a Stripe.com account before submitting their contract and W-9 to avoid delays in payment.
● Instructions for setting up an account will be provided upon selection.
STEP 4: FINAL CONFIRMATION & LOGISTICS
Performance Confirmation
● Once the contract, W-9, and Bill.com account setup is complete, bands will receive final performance details, stage assignments, and load-in schedules.
IMPORTANT DEADLINES
✔ Stripe.com Account Setup, Contract & W-9 Submission Deadline: No later than one week before the festival.
✔ Failure to submit the signed contract, W-9, and complete Stripe.com registration by the deadline will result in forfeiture of the performance slot.
