Tune your guitars – The Battle is back

Central Coast Council’s ‘Battle of the Bands’ (BOB) competition for young people aged 12 to 25 returns to the stage in June.

Fledgling bands are encouraged to register, with minimum band requirements being two members and two songs.

Council Director Connected Communities, Julie Vaughan said since starting in 2004, BOB has helped launch a number of bands, and this year resets to ground zero.

“We’re calling for both beginner bands and really tight groups. Bands don’t have to be super polished, they just need to be able to play a couple of songs,” Ms Vaughan said.

“It’s all about making live music, getting off screens, and being part of the community. We’re hoping to bring young people from different schools together to meet and compete.

“Music is a connector, and when it’s played live, it gives a bit of soul to its surroundings. Battle is a many-splendoured thing - it brings young people together, it’s fun, it offers professional development and it helps sustain the Coast’s live and local music.”

Council Mayor Jane Smith said Battle of the Bands has provided young musicians with access to development programs and industry experts since it began in 2004.

“Battle of the Bands is an important competition on the Coast as it has given many local musicians the opportunity to kick start a career in music,” Mayor Smith said.

“Council is committed to competitions like this because they connect young people, support mentoring to develop their skills, cultivate a love of music knowledge and promote healthy living in our communities.”

All entrants will be able to access music industry workshops and interact with professional musicians, producers and music engineers.

All of the grand finalists will get feedback from industry professionals, while the winners can record a song with studio time provided by Grove Studios. There is also $3000 up for grabs in ‘music money’, provided by both Council and Macron Music.

After BOB finishes, young musicians will be able to bring along their instruments to jam as part of Council’s monthly ‘Plug and Play’ program at the Hub Erina Youth Entertainment Venue.

Bands can register now. To find out more visit thehuberina.com

Heat one: Thursday 13 June, The Hive Erina Fair, 6pm

Heat two: Saturday 22 June, Memorial Park, The Entrance, 12pm

Final: Friday 28 June, The Hub Erina Youth Entertainment Venue, 7pm

ENDS