The deadline for Maine High School rock bands to sign up for the 25th (and final) Annual Reindeer Rock-Off competition is fast approaching.

The event is open to original high school musicians of all levels and genres who would like their moment of fame in the Rock-Off spotlight. In addition to the coveted title of Best Young Band In The State Of Maine, the winning band will win $1,000.

The Rock-Off is presented by Portland-based independent label Reindeer Records and is designed to provide lots of benefits to every band whether they win or not," said Executive Producer Louis Philippe, who created the event when he was president of the local music union. "It's a great platform for learning and growing as individual musicians, with plenty of industry exposure and networking opportunities, and it's just plain tons of fun."

Deadline to register is February 1, after which bands will be slotted for a live showcase performance on March 15 or 22 at McAuley Performing Arts Center in Portland. Five bands will then be selected to play in the Finals, slated for Sunday, April 19.

Musicians interested in obtaining a registration packet or more info should contact Reindeer at 857-9002 or email events@reindeergroup.org.