This is the 6th year I’ve entered a song in the annual music competition. Every year I’ve gotten the same result:

Although your work, *such and such* was not among the recognized entries, we are gratified to find so many Latter-day Saints that are contributing their talents to the Church.

This year I entered my violin/piano arrangement of “When I Am Baptized.” It still was not a winner but for the first time I saw this new line:

Although your work, “When I Am Baptized,” was not among the recognized entries, we wanted you to know that it was among the finalists. This is an accomplishment worthy of note considering the quantity of submissions.

I was a finalist!

If you are entering and not winning…don’t give up hope! I’ve noticed myself improve in my skills every year. Looking back to my first entry, it was a wreck. I’ve learned a lot. Ask for editing from a musical friend. I’ve improved my knowledge a lot from doing that. Also, look at the songs that are winners. They will show you what the judges are looking for. Hopefully this is helpful for you who are also entering!