Arts Humboldt always looks to put the focus on local artists and performers, and they did just that a little over a week ago.

The 2018 Soundcheque Showcase took place on Sunday, November 4th, at the Humboldt Golf Course. The afternoon was jam-packed with all types of great vocalists, but one really stood out from the rest of the pack. Julia Ramsay, an HCI student from Humboldt was the winner of the Souncheque Showcase 2018, she will work exclusively with Randy Woods in a recording studio and record her song, Our Prayer of Hope. It is a tribute to those who we lost in the Bronco's bus crash back on April 6th. She talked about what the song meant to her, as well as how she wanted it to be a song of commemoration for all those affected by the bus crash. 

"I wrote the song myself the night of April 6th, and I think I really struck a note with the audience because all performers know when they gave the audience that little 'ooh' feeling." Ramsay went on "That's one thing I tried to incorporate into my song, the different aspects of how everyone is connected, whether it be directly or indirectly." When asked what she will do with her winnings, she explained. "Well, I am going to work with Randy to develop my song, and make it into the best possible piece it can be." Ramsay added, "My song will be one that people will listen to when they are in a certain mood, or when they are missing their loved one just a little bit more that day."

The event was very well attended, with a crowd of over 80 on the day. Arts Humboldt has hosted the event 4 times now, and each year garners more and more public attention. It is a great opportunity for local artists to bring forward their best work, and be critiqued by professional musicians, in hopes of winning the chance to produce a couple of songs with one of the judges. When asked about how she felt the competition was run, Ramsay had nothing but great reviews. "I think it was really great, just how laid back and easy to follow, they did a great job with keeping us in the loop and keeping away any tension between the competitors."

Julia Ramsay looks is thankful for being chosen, but she also did acknowledge that the competition was tough, with all the competitors putting their best foot forward. The Soundcheque Showcase is a great display of local talent and continues to grow with each showcase hosted.