Montreal Blues Society IBC

Quebec to Memphis 2026 — Solo/Duo Registration Now Open


The Montreal Blues Society is now accepting registrations for the Solo/Duo category of its annual "Quebec to Memphis" contest. This fall, the Society will select one act to represent Quebec and the Montreal Blues Society at the 42nd International Blues Challenge (IBC 2026), taking place January 13–17 in Beale Street’s Historic District, Memphis.

The IBC is the largest gathering of blues musicians in the world, with acts sponsored by blues societies from across the globe competing for top honors.


Quebec’s Legacy in Memphis

Quebec artists have consistently made their mark at the IBC. Past highlights include:

  • Semi-finalists: Michael Jerome Browne, Dawn & Paul, Justin Saladino Band
  • Finalists three years in a row:
  •   Paul DesLauriers Band – 2nd place in 2016
  •   Dawn Tyler Watson & The Ben Racine Band – 1st place in 2017
  • Angel Forrest Band – Finalist in 2018
  • Adam Karch – Winner of the Memphis Cigar Box Guitar Award (Best Solo/Duo Guitarist) in 2023


This will be the 11th edition of "Quebec to Memphis" hosted by the Montreal Blues Society.

 Contest Details

  • Category: Solo/Duo only (1 or 2 members, as defined by the IBC)
  • Eligibility: Open to all Quebec-based acts
  • Registration period: August 10 to midnight August 31, 2025
  • Local competition venue: Bistro à Jojo
  • Date: October 7th, 2025
  • Performance time: 20–25 minutes (to be confirmed)
  • Judging: By a panel of independent judges using IBC guidelines
  • Travel dates: January 13–17, 2026 — you must be available and have a valid passport


Travel & Financial Support

The winning act is responsible for covering their own travel, lodging, and expenses in Memphis. The Montreal Blues Society will organize fundraisers to help defray a portion of these costs. Any expenses beyond the financial support provided are the sole responsibility of the winning act.


Questions?

  • For more information or clarification, please contact:
         info@bluesmontreal.com


Guidelines Download


 Registration & Selection Process

  • Fee: $30.00, payable via PayPal
  • If there are too few entries, the Montreal Blues Society may modify or cancel the event
  • If there are more entries than can be accommodated, a panel of judges will conduct a pre-selection

Quebec to Memphis Contest Registration Form