GREAT ESCAPE: Baltimore's Best Auditions at Padonia Station

Baltimore's Best qualifying round will end on a high note – perhaps a shrill one – tonight, but next week marks the semi-final rounds of Padonia Station’s 11^th annual singing competition.

Formerly known as Baltimore Idol, the contest brought out hopeful singers who have spent this week trilling and warbling their way to the final 30. From July 13 – 20, at 9 p.m., the semi-finalists will be continuing their competition at , on Padonia Road in Timonium.

There’s no cover charge, and some of the drinks are discounted. Coors Lite bottles are $2, a pint of Natty Boh is $1.98, Orange Crush is $5 and Malibus are $3. All proceeds benefit the Ed Block Courage Award Foundation, a charity that raises funds for abused children.

“Ninety percent of the talent that comes out is quality,” said Debi Fowler, director of promotions and marketing. “We have a few stragglers that come out, but none of them make it to the finals.”

Fowler spoke highly of the talent that she’s seen at the contest over the years.

“The contest leads people down the road to greater opportunities,” she said, naming the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra and two local bands, The New Romance and The Fifth Level, as places where successful contestants have ended up.

July 27 will be the final round, where the finalists will face off for a grand prize of $1,500 and recording and interview opportunities.

“They come dressed to a tee,” Fowler said. “They have to sing two  songs, and let me tell you, it is fabulous. The place is just jammed.”