Guzzardo Performance Music is hosting the second annual "Emerging Artists Competition" where bands of all genres compete at local area festivals throughout the summer with the finals being held at On The Waterfront. The grand prize winner will win a stage full of band gear. Last years winner won $7700 worth of equipment. Judges last year were; Dennis Gerrits (Ludwig,Zildjian rep), Brandon Zunker (Hamer,Takamine,Ovation guitars), Holland Zander (The Sensations), Larry Morrissey (Mayor of Rockford), Steve Shannon (WZOK), Bun E Carlos (Cheap Trick, Tinted Windows), Jill Katona (A&R for Electra Records- owner of Paperwork Media), Mitch Marlow (manager of The Redwalls- a big Chicago band).