The PEAK Performance Project is a seven-year, 5.29 million dollar contest open to all musicians in British Columbia. The project was created by Vancouver’s very own 100.5 The PEAK and Music BC to develop BC based emerging artists. Every year, twenty finalists from BC will receive an intensive, one week training program in the music business, live performance, songwriting, marketing and promotion. From these, the top three will be crowned as the PEAK Performers of the year and will share $275,000 in cash for career development!

Over the coming weeks we’ll be introducing you to all of this year’s participating artists with quick interviews about the project, the other artists, and a little bit of Vancouver! Vote now for your favourite top 19 at www.peakperformanceproject.com.

Next up is Ben Sigston from Vancouver. He’ll be playing The Cellar on Thursday, November 5th, and the only way to get into the showcase is by listening to 100.5 The Peak FM to win tickets! Limited tickets will also be released at the door.

Who’s your favorite artist(s) in the Peak Performance Project and why?
It’s too hard to choose. There are so many great acts!
Seriously…

What was the most valuable thing you took away from Boot Camp?
For me it was the basic of message to tour, tour, tour….
The faculty gave such great info on so many topics of the industry that all related to getting out there, marketing ourselves and supporting it with live shows.

What is one thing you wish you brought to Boot Camp, but didn’t?
A computer and digital camera!

What’s your favorite venue to play at in BC?
The coolest place I’ve played is the Vogue Theatre, but in terms of a fun room there is a little café in Kitsilano called Corduroy that has a great vibe. I also really dig the changes that have been made at the Media Club on Cambie St. It’s a staple for all bands in Vancouver.

Where is your favorite hangout in Vancouver?
Hmmm. I must say that there is a little café near where I live called Higher Grounds. I love coffee.

If you win the grand prize, what are you going to put the money towards?
That’s another tricky question! Obviously it would go a long way and really have to be spread out. Firstly, I’d put money into online marketing and promotion including advertising.
Secondly, I’d use a bit of it for recording.
Thirdly, I’d access it for tour support and as a way to get to all of the major music festivals and conferences in North America such as NXNE, SXSW and many others! There are so many other things to use it for but I’m sure it would be boring to read about!

www.bensigston.com
www.myspace.com/bensigston
www.twitter.com/bensigston

www.thepeak.fm / www.peakperformanceproject.com / www.musicbc.org / www.cellarvan.com