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Would-be Bradford Idols sing their hearts out (12 photos)

'Until this pandemic passes and bars and restaurants reopen, we have no choice but to wait' to schedule the finale

The first four weeks of the Village Inn Bradford Idol preliminary competitions are officially in the books and there’s only one week left to figure out the final face-off on March 26.

With fears surrounding the worldwide pandemic growing every day, there are still those who just need to get out of the house, have some fun and support their local talent.

With the dozens of fans in the audience and a host of talented singers behind the mic, the Village Inn is a large enough venue that guidance on group sizes in the face of the Coronavirus can be safely followed.

“I want to showcase all the singers and audience members that came out tonight, to show everyone that you don’t have to be afraid to come out and have a good time,” said Jackie Kozak, owner of Scaraoke Entertainment and host for the Village Inn Bradford Idol singing competition.

“I know this virus is a little scary, but just keep washing your hands then come out and support your local talent,” she continued.

The talent for the third annual Village Inn Bradford Idol singing competition is keeping the judges on their toes.

Essie Avila, one of four judges for the competition, has over a decade of musical experience to bring to the table with her second judging appearance.

“I had a lot of fun last time I was a judge for this event and it just seems like everyone is really talented,” said Avila.

“It’s going to be really hard to pick the winner. Each week we’re having a really hard time after every show, so at the finals, it’s going to be super hard.”

In addition to judging singers on their vocal ability, song choice, audience rapport and stage performance, the Village Inn Bradford Idol also takes audience voting into consideration when deciding who will advance to the finals.

With each audience member getting one ballot to cast for their favourite singer, the competitors with the most votes will stand the best chance of moving on to the finals.

With over $1000 in cash and prizes on the line, the judges, including Avila, Danny Panetta, Keith Komar and Tyler Tossounian sent four more amazing singers to the finals this week.

The finalists from week four of the Village Inn Bradford Idol singing competition are Jayson Hopkins, Kaitland McPhee, Meliss Piggot and Sandra Homen.

Due to announcements made by the province regarding the closing of bars and restaurants, week five of the preliminary events along with the finals have been put on hold until further notice.

“Obviously, this is an unprecedented situation, and I’m sad we are forced to postpone the singing competition, but until this pandemic passes and bars and restaurants reopen, we have no choice but to wait,” explained Kozak.

“I’m looking forward to returning with a Big Bang celebration once everything reopens though. The finals will truly be something to celebrate!”