10 years of the SONGS songwriting competition

“I am always so fascinated by the great performances that the young people at SONGS literally bring to the stage. I advise everyone to come along to the final of SONGS at the SpardaWelt Event Center or, even better, to take part.” - Andreas Küchle, Head of Marketing at Sparda-Bank Baden-Württemberg.

“We are delighted to have been able to offer this unique songwriting competition together with the Sparda-Bank Baden-Württemberg Education and Social Foundation for ten years now! SONGS winners such as Eva Sauter, Myle, Enya, Ayla and Piya have all gone on to study at the Popakademie. It's great that we can promote songwriting among young people!” says Derek von Krogh, Artistic Director and Managing Director of the Popakademie Baden-Württemberg.

Whether pop, rap, electro or rock, as a duo, solo or with a whole band - “SONGS” gives pupils from Baden-Württemberg the chance to bring their own SONGS to the big stage.

Students between the ages of eleven and 21 can apply together with an institution, e.g. a school, music school or youth center. The three best SONGS will be awarded non-cash prizes to provide the institutions with musical equipment. In addition, the winners will receive professional coaching at the Popakademie Baden-Württemberg. The Popakademie also offers a one-day vocal camp for all singers in the final.

At the SONGS final on Saturday, May 24, 2025 at the SpardaWelt Eventcenter in Stuttgart, selected participants will present their submitted SONGS live in front of a jury of experts. A special guest will also perform.

A training course on songwriting/producing will be offered for teachers and educational professionals on 28.01.25. Registration and information on the training for teachers at songs@popakademie.de

Information on participation in SONGS for students and institutions here

The closing date for entries is 16.03.2025

About the Education and Social Foundation of Sparda-Bank Baden-Württemberg eG, cultural and sustainable commitment has always been an integral part of the corporate philosophy of the regionally rooted Sparda-Bank. The Education and Social Foundation is one of Sparda-Bank's five foundations. It takes care of social issues in the federal state. For many years, the foundation has been committed to social institutions and projects that care for children, young people and people with disabilities and illnesses. The foundation does not see itself as a mere donor, but is committed to networking different stakeholders and promoting the common good through its own projects. In addition, the foundation is particularly committed to education-related projects, such as promoting healthy eating, teaching media skills or promoting innovative learning methods.