Local bands interested in playing at the University of Toledo's Music Fest 2012, an outdoor music festival slated for September, will be able to compete for that opportunity.

Area bands can upload a live performance YouTube video to Music Fest's Facebook page for a chance to be selected as an opening act for the third annual music festival that will take place Sept. 14 at UT.

"After two successful years of Music Fest we wanted to do something a bit different this year and get the community involved in selecting the performers," said Lawrence J. Burns, UT vice president for external affairs. "We have such amazing musical talent here in northwest Ohio and this is a great way to give local bands the opportunity to share their music with a huge audience of music lovers."

Videos no longer than five minutes can be uploaded to the Music Fest Facebook page Monday through June 27. The YouTube video should include the band name and the words "UT Local Band Challenge" in the title.

The top 10 bands with strong musical talent, unique sound, and energetic performances will be selected as finalists and have their videos posted on Facebook starting July 1 for the public to vote for their favorites.

The winner will be announced July 16 and will receive $750 and the opportunity to play at Music Fest 2012.

For more information visit facebook.com/UTMusicFest.

First Published June 15, 2012, 12:00 a.m.