WHRO Public Media is dedicated to showcasing compelling stories from our region. We welcome completed works from filmmakers and audio content creators in Virginia and North Carolina that reflect the diversity, history, and voices of our communities. Selected works will be featured across WHRO’s broadcast and streaming platforms.

Who Can Submit

•  Independent filmmakers and audio content creators based in Virginia, North Carolina as well as stories from accross the US that hold local relevance for our community.  
•  Submissions must be completed projects — we do not accept works-in-progress.  
•  Eligible content includes:  
•  Short or feature-length films  
•  Documentaries  
•  Short-form or long-form audio productions  
• Podcast & Radio series 
•  Other audio/visual storytelling formats suitable for public media

Submission Requirements

 Completed Work 

•  Film submissions must be in broadcast-quality video format.  
•  Audio submissions must be in high-quality, uncompressed formats (e.g., WAV, MP3).  

Synopsis & Creator Bio 

•  A short synopsis (150 words or fewer) and creator biography.  

 Technical Specifications 

•  Must meet WHRO’s technical delivery standards for broadcast and streaming (to be provided upon acceptance).  

Editorial Standards 

•  Content must adhere to WHRO Public Media’s Editorial Standards (see below).  
•  No commercial advertising or sponsored content.  
•  Content should be factually accurate, respectful of diverse viewpoints, and appropriate for public audiences.

Editorial Standards

WHRO’s editorial guidelines are based on PBS and NPR standards for fairness, accuracy, and independence. Content must:

•  Be factually accurate, with credible sourcing.  
•  Avoid defamatory statements or unverified claims.  
•  Represent diverse voices and perspectives where possible.  
•  Refrain from obscene, indecent, or profane material.  
•  Disclose any conflicts of interest or funding sources influencing content.  
• No advocacy content. 
•  Respect copyright laws and secure rights for all material (music, footage, images, etc.).  

Selection Process

•  Submissions are reviewed by WHRO’s Local Content Committee for quality, relevance, and alignment with our mission.  
•  Creators will be notified by email within 6–8 weeks of submission.  
•  Due to high volume, we cannot provide detailed feedback on all submissions.

Agreement & Compensation

•  Selected creators will receive a small stipend as an honorarium.  
•  WHRO will license selected works under a three-year, non-exclusive rights agreement for both broadcast and streaming distribution on WHRO platforms.  
•  Creators retain full ownership of their work and may distribute it elsewhere.

How to Submit

1.  Complete the WHRO Local Content Submission Form [link to form/portal].  
2.  Upload your completed project file (or provide a secure download link).  
3.  Attach all required documentation (synopsis, bio, rights clearances).

Play Your Heart Out Fifth Annual Music Showcase is looking for emerging solo artists or duets performing original music.

Guidelines:

• You must be a solo musician or a duet performing your own music.
• Your music must be your own original work.
• All music must be able to be performed live using acoustic or electric instruments (no soundtracks).
• You may have recorded it previously or played it publically.  It may not be a new interpretation of previously recorded music by another artist.
• As the music will be performed in a facility that is open to the public, all music and lyrics submitted for consideration must be suitable for general audiences, including young children.
• Applications will be reviewed and musicians will be selected by a team of WHRO staff and members of the WHRO Next Gen Collective Board.  All decisions are final.
• Please submit two videos of you playing your original music (not covers). 
• By completing and submitting an application, you agree to the above guidelines and are available August 16th, 2026.
• A soundcheck will occur on Sunday, August 16, before the event. A schedule with designated times for each performer will be communicated the week prior to the event.

What is not accepted.

• Pre-recorded soundtracks 
• Musicians with wide regional recognition and following
• If you work with a record label that distributes your music
• If you've opened for nationally known musicians
• If your music is played on any local major radio station

Performance Venue:

This performance will take place in Huber Court of The Chrysler Museum.