Broadstairs & St. Peter’s Town Council has officially announced the return of its highly anticipated youth music competition, Battle of the Bands, for a second consecutive year.
Teaming up once again with isle industry experts Sunshine Ocean Records, the event aims to give a platform to the next generation of musical talent across the district.
The live competition will take place at the Broadstairs Bandstand on Monday, 3 August, running from 12 noon to 6pm.
Schools Liaison Councillor, Joanne Bright, said: “This is a really exciting opportunity for under-18s from Broadstairs to share their musical talents in front of an audience and hopefully win an impressive prize. You never know where opportunities like this may lead!”
The event is designed as a friendly yet career-boosting competition and is open strictly to teenage performers and young start-up bands under the age of 18 from Thanet.
A curated panel of music industry judges will crown the 2026 winner. The victorious act will receive a comprehensive prize package designed to kick-start their professional music journey:
- Recording Studio Voucher: Full access for a one-day recording session.
- Rehearsal Space: Six months of dedicated monthly rehearsal space at Pierremont Hall.
- Guaranteed Paid Gig: A coveted spot on the official Broadstairs Bandstand Guide lineup for 2027.
The event will also feature a special guest headline performance by alternative youth rock band
Black House Hill, the official 2025 Battle of the Bands champions, who will take the stage while the judges deliberate.
To guarantee high-quality performance times, slots are strictly limited to just five acts. Aspiring bands and solo artists must meet the following criteria to apply:
- Must live or study within Thanet
- All performers must be under 18 years old.
- Performers aged 16 and under must be accompanied by a guardian over 18.
- Sunshine Ocean Records will provide the main PA system, backline infrastructure, and a professional sound technician. Selected artists are responsible for bringing their own personal instruments and breakables (e.g., drum cymbals/snare).
Full equipment lists will be cross-shared upon entry acceptance.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted via email to the Town Council events team at [email protected] .
Because slots are capped at five, early registration is heavily encouraged. The event will be free for public spectators
