February is just around the corner, which means the seventh annual RPM Challenge is knocking at the door of musicians around the globe. And, since 2012 is a leap year, participants will have a full extra day to make music. RPM encourages musicians to write and record an entire album of at least 10 songs or 35 minutes of original music in the month of February. It is not a contest and there are no prizes, just the satisfaction that comes with a finished CD. In 2011, well over 2,000 participants signed up and close to 800 completed an album. Regional RPMers celebrated in March with a city-wide listening party in Portsmouth that kicked off at The Music Hall with a live, impromptu jam onstage. As a special warm-up this year, musicians can take part in The Kitchen Challenge. The idea is to make an album in January that is either recorded in the kitchen, uses kitchen utensils as instruments, or includes songs about the kitchen. Those interested can sign up or learn more at www.rpmchallenge.com.