'Battle of the Bands' is back

Saturday 13 May 2023

Young musicians are being called to tune their guitars and warm up their vocal cords, as a competition showcasing young local bands returns to the island’s musical calendar.

The Battle of the Bands – open to groups whose members are aged 14 to 18 – will take place at the Watersplash on 22 July, marking the return of an event that offers a helping hand to the best of local talent.

Shortlisted bands will receive free photography, videography and rehearsal space, while the winners will have two tracks professionally engineered and produced.

WATCH: The promotional video for the return of 'Battle of the Bands'.

JMA Chairman Francis Murton said that there had been a dramatic reduction in the number of live music venues at which under-18s could perform.

"There is nothing like the thrill and buzz that comes from performing live to an audience, and we are delighted to be able to provide these bands with the opportunity to experience this," he said.

With the support of sponsors Bean Around the World, Island Music, Madhatter Surf Shop, the Hearing Healthcare Centre and The Royal Yacht, and the support of Youth Arts Jersey, the competition is back with some new touches.

Pictured: The closing date for applications is 27 May.

JMA committee member, Jess Donoghue explained: "We are also excited to have RampArts with us on the day, offering graffiti wall and tote bag customisation workshops. It’s going to be awesome.

"We have such an abundance of young musical talent on the island. It deserves investment and support and we are very grateful to everyone who has helped us get Battle of the Bands back on Jersey’s musical calendar."

Applications can be made through the event’s website botb.je or by emailing botb@jma.org.je.

The closing date for applications is 27 May.