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2026 Hey Nonny Songwriting Contest

The Law Offices of R.F. Wittmeyer, Ltd. is proud to sponsor the 2026 Hey Nonny Songwriting Competition.

Each year, this event gives emerging songwriters a chance to take the stage, share their original music, and connect with a passionate Chicago-area audience.

The competition is open to professional and amateur songwriters from anywhere. Songs must be original and created entirely by humans without AI assistance.

Important Dates

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Entries Due

August 10
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Performers Notified

August 21
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Preliminary Rounds

September 8, 15, and 22
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Final Round

September 29
All songs must be created entirely by humans. No AI assistance is permitted.

Preliminary Rounds

First Round Winners

Week 1 2026 Winners (1)
  • Michael Marsden — “My Best Day Then”
  • Josette Kacey — “Treehouse”
  • Despina Pafralides — “River”
  • Austin Zahar — “It Washed Away”

Second Round Winners

Week 2 2026 Winners
  • Aaron Newsome – “Devil Woman”
  • Christopher Watson – “Hazel”
  • Mike Flood – “Paper Boats”
  • Gerald Dowd – “Keleton Key”

Prizes

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First Place

$1,000

Plus headlining performance at Hey Nonny

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Second Place

$400
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Third Place

$300

About Hey Nonny

Hey Nonny is a celebrated Arlington Heights live music venue known for supporting original music and independent artists. The songwriting competition continues that tradition by giving emerging performers an opportunity to share their work with a live audience.

About the Law Offices of R.F. Wittmeyer, Ltd.

For over 40 years, the Law Offices of R.F. Wittmeyer, Ltd. has helped injured individuals and their families throughout the greater Chicagoland area. The firm is proud to support local artists and community events throughout Arlington Heights.

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