Amplify’s 10th annual Battle of the Bands competition is once again highlighting local bands and solo artists at City Arts Space on Sept. 19.
A call for musicians between Grade 7 and age 21 is now open, and they are encouraged to apply for a slot at The Show 10.0.
“We are looking for musicians in bands, solos, duos and trios. They must be off-book and ready to play a 25-minute show. They must play at a certain level and one of the indicators is they must have their music memorized. They can’t be looking at their cell or music sheets,” said Kathleen Bell, St. Albert community cultural coordinator.
Prior to the concert, musicians will be walked through a professional sound and lighting check with technicians. For musicians, it’s more than an opportunity to perform in a professionally produced concert and festival-style setting in front of peers. It's also the chance work with a technical crew and learn to excel at quick turnovers in front of a crowd.
Bell believes The Show gives musicians the motivation to hone their skills and develop the confidence needed to take the next step in their music careers.
To be eligible for consideration, musicians are required to upload a video of one full song at amplifystalbert.ca.
“We ask that you act as if you are performing live with an audience. You can do guitar tricks, fancy solos or drop on your knees. We need to see your performance,” Bell said.
She has guided young musicians through The Show since its inception.
“On reflection, we’ve been able to fill 10 years with outstanding musicians. Every year I wondered if we could do it, or if we had enough applications. But we always had enough and the artists really stepped up. It’s a reflection on how talented, bold, daring, and responsible they are.”
The deadline to apply is Sunday, July 6. Artist selections will be made by July 10 and posted online shortly thereafter.
