By day, local musician Shane Larmand is a teacher at F.G. Miller in Elk Point, educating young minds about art and music.
By day, local musician Shane Larmand is a teacher at F.G. Miller in Elk Point, educating young minds about art and music. But away from school, Larmand is pursuing his career as a singer/songwriter, and is in the midst of vying for top spot in a contest that could see his latest recording distributed nation-wide.
Larmand found out about the contest when he stopped by a Sunrise Records location to see if they would put some of his original music on consignment. An employee directed Larmand toward the contest, which is taking place on social media.
If Larmand can garner enough votes and grab top spot, his music could reach the ears of people clear across the nation. As of Sunday, Larmand was sitting in second place, although he had managed to grab first place for a period of time a day earlier.
“I'm hoping for the best, but the results have surprised me,&” admits Larmand, adding, he's been one of the fastest growing artists in the contest when it comes to the number of votes he's managed to achieve.
“People have been great.&”
The Sunrise Local Artist Contest is offering national distribution, along with some priceless social media attention. The grand prize is worth about $5,000. The runner-up will receive 500 copies of their album on CD, along with regional distribution and social support.
Along with garnering votes, Larmand is also busy recording more music at 302 Productions in Bonnyville, to ensure he has enough music for a full album, if he does win.
Larmand's music is a mix of rock, folk, roots and blues. In his biography, Larmand is described as being an “Alberta singer/songwriter who is unafraid to show vulnerability and honesty in his music. As a person who struggles with an anxiety disorder, his songs reflect his life and these struggles.&”
Larmand hopes his music can shine a light on some of the darker days he's been through, while also helping others. When he's not focused on his own music, Larmand is working with students, “keeping music real for the younger kids.&”
To vote for Larmand, visit Sunrise Records on Facebook, or follow the link that is posted on the St. Paul Journal's Facebook page. The contest closes on Oct. 31.
