Entries can be composed, performed, or mixed live. Multiple submissions allowed per competitor unless otherwise stated.

Submit final audio file(s) before the deadline in a supported format.

Winners are determined by audience voting unless explicitly marked as jury-judged.

Music entries must be original and previously unreleased. No covers, remixes, or copyrighted samples without permission. Generative AI may not be used for large parts of the work.

Supported audio formats: MP3 (320kbps), OGG (high quality), WAV, FLAC. Normalize audio levels where appropriate.

If a rule is unclear, the competition organizers will make the final decision. Organizers may clarify or amend rules if necessary; such changes will be announced if done after the entries can be handed in.

When requested, submit a screenshot and any required metadata or readme describing used techniques, formats, and third-party assets (with licenses).

Include a short readme.txt in your submission describing used techniques, any third-party assets (with license info), platform and playback instructions.

Multiple submissions are allowed in many competitions. See the specific competition page for limits. Each submission should be an independent entry.

If you need the organizers to test your entry on compo machines, contact the competition organizer early to arrange testing.

All competition entries must be uploaded to the competition system before the stated deadline. Deadlines are hard unless the competition organizer explicitly grants an extension.

Entries must be previously unreleased and primarily original material. You may include small previously released components (logos, short samples etc.) only if you have the rights to use them and they are not the main substance of the entry.

Do not use copyrighted material you do not own or have permission to use. Covers, remixes, copyrighted samples and unlicensed logos will lead to disqualification.

Entries with primarily AI-generated content are not allowed. AI may be used for assistance, but the majority of the entry must still be the competitors' own work.

Organizers reserve the right to disqualify entries that contain explicit sexual content, racist or hate material, or otherwise violate the event rules or the spirit of the party.

By submitting, you accept the competition contract and grant the organizers the rights display, judge, distribute and use the entry for purposes related to Kandu and The Gathering, including promotion of these.

Attendance. To receive physical prizes you or your representative must attend the prize-giving ceremony.