Applications are now open for the musical highlight of the school year – the NT Battle of the School Bands.
The annual challenge is open to years 7 to 12 students from government and non-government schools across the Northern Territory.
Last year’s winners, the Mulga Bore Hard Rock Band from Mulga Bore, northwest of Alice Springs, had incredible success, opening for international rock group Kiss at the band’s Brisbane concert.
Bands, soloists or duets are encouraged to apply, via video submissions made online through Northern Territory Music School | Everyone can play! (ntms.net.au)
NT Music School provides a style guide and judging criteria to all entrants to help them create their videos.
For the first time, the winners of Battle of the School Bands will perform at the Territory’s premiere event, Territory Day, in either Darwin or Alice Springs.
Other prizes include recording experiences and recording bundles aimed at engaging the students in their learning experience.
Applications close on the 6th April, with the finalists announced on the 24th of April.
An event to announce the winners will take place at the Darwin Railway Club in Parap on the 2nd of June, after performances from all finalists on stage.
Quotes from Education Minister Eva Lawler:
“Battle of the School Bands is an excellent way to showcase the talents of our students in the Northern Territory and help them progress their music journey.
Every year I am amazed at the number of incredible performances from our gifted students in the NT Music School Battle of the School Bands and I thank our music teachers for taking the time to guide and prepare our young stars.
After the huge success of the Mulga Bore Hard Rock band last year, I can’t wait to see what 2023 has in store!”
NT Music School Manager School Support and Coordinator of Battle of the School Bands Simon Pedder:
“This year marks our second year for students to apply for Battle of the School Bands through an online video entry and there are already social media conversations between students across the Territory about the competition.
With the final set for the 2nd of June, teachers have said that they will provide some much-needed preparation space for their students, allowing them to sharpen their songs and performances.
We ask you to keep a lookout on the NT Music School social pages, both Facebook and Instagram, for snippets of acts vying for a place in this year’s final.”
Alvin Manfong lead guitarist and vocalist from Mulga Bore Hard Rock band – winner in 2022:
“Music is glory – I like to sing loud to the audience and share my talents with other kids.”
Northern Territory Government
