Competition Rules & Terms

Thank you for your interest in Battle of the Bands 2026.

Our aim is to create a welcoming, inclusive and professionally run competition that celebrates original music and provides a platform for emerging artists. The following Competition Rules & Terms are designed to ensure the competition is fair, enjoyable and safe for everyone taking part.

By submitting an application, you confirm that you have read, understood and agree to these Competition Rules & Terms.

1. Eligibility

1.1 Battle of the Bands is open to solo artists, duos, trios and bands of all musical genres.

1.2 The competition is open to performers of all ages.

1.3 Acts with members under the age of 18 are welcome to participate. A parent or legal guardian must complete any required consent forms where applicable. Performers under the age of 18 must comply with any safeguarding arrangements communicated by the organisers.

2. Original Music

2.1 Each act must perform a set that includes a minimum of two original songs.

2.2 Cover versions are welcome, provided the minimum original song requirement is met.

3. Performance

3.1 Each act will be allocated a 30-minute performance slot, including set-up, performance and changeover.

3.2 A basic backline, PA system and production will be provided. A technical specification will be issued to successful applicants.

3.3 Acts are expected to arrive at the venue at the agreed time and be ready to perform as scheduled.

3.4 The organisers reserve the right to amend performance times or the running order where necessary.

4. Competition Format

4.1 Battle of the Bands is expected to comprise qualifying heats and a Grand Final.

4.2 The competition format, including the number of heats, acts per heat and finalists, may be amended by the organisers depending on the number and quality of applications received.

5. Selection & Judging

5.1 Submission of an application does not guarantee selection.

5.2 Applications will be assessed based on musical quality, originality, live performance ability, audience engagement potential and suitability for the event.

5.3 Acts will be programmed to ensure a balanced and varied competition.

5.4 Performances will be judged on:

• Musicianship

• Originality

• Stage presence

• Audience engagement

5.5 The organisers may incorporate an element of audience participation as part of the judging process.

5.6 The judging panel's decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into regarding the outcome.

6. Prize

6.1 The winning act will receive a performance slot on the Homegrown Stage at Eats & Beats Festival 2026, subject to the festival's programme and scheduling requirements.

6.2 The prize is non-transferable and cannot be exchanged for cash or an alternative prize.

6.3 The winning act agrees to participate in reasonable promotional activity relating to the competition and Eats & Beats.

7. Musical Content

7.1 Battle of the Bands is an inclusive, community-focused event welcoming audiences of all ages.

7.2 All performances should be suitable for an all-ages audience.

7.3 Acts should avoid:

• Excessive or aggressive profanity.

• Lyrics or behaviour that promote hatred, discrimination or violence.

• Sexually explicit language or behaviour.

• Material likely to cause serious offence to an all-ages audience.

7.4 The organisers respect artistic expression and recognise that occasional strong language may form part of an original work. Performers are asked to exercise appropriate discretion, taking into account the nature of the event and audience.

7.5 The organisers reserve the right to request amendments to material considered unsuitable or, in exceptional circumstances, withdraw an act from the competition.

8. Conduct

8.1 All performers are expected to behave professionally and respectfully towards fellow performers, venue staff, volunteers, judges and audience members.

8.2 Bullying, harassment, discrimination, threatening behaviour or abuse of any kind will not be tolerated and may result in immediate disqualification.

8.3 Performers are responsible for ensuring their guests and supporters also behave appropriately whilst attending the event.

9. Photography, Video & Media

9.1 By entering the competition, performers grant The Anchor Bar, Shindig Arts and Eats & Beats permission to photograph, film and record performances for promotional, marketing and editorial purposes without further payment.

9.2 Copyright in all original songs remains with the songwriter(s).

9.3 The organisers may use performers' names, biographies, photographs and promotional material in connection with the competition and Eats & Beats.

10. Cancellation & Changes

10.1 The organisers reserve the right to amend competition dates, venues, format, judging arrangements or scheduling should circumstances require.

10.2 Should a selected act withdraw, the organisers reserve the right to invite an alternative act to participate.

10.3 The organisers shall not be liable for costs incurred by entrants arising from cancellation or alteration of the event due to circumstances beyond their reasonable control.

11. Code of Conduct & Reputation

11.1 The organisers are committed to delivering an inclusive, welcoming and respectful event that reflects the values of The Anchor Bar, Shindig Arts and Eats & Beats.

11.2 The organisers reserve the right to refuse, withdraw or disqualify any act whose behaviour, public conduct or online activity is considered likely to bring the competition, The Anchor Bar, Shindig Arts or Eats & Beats into disrepute.

11.3 This includes, but is not limited to, behaviour or content that is discriminatory, abusive, threatening, hateful, unlawful or otherwise inconsistent with the inclusive ethos of the event.

11.4 Any decision made by the organisers under this clause shall be final.

12. Acceptance

12.1 Submission of an application confirms that all members of the act have read, understood and agree to these Competition Rules & Terms.

12.2 By entering the competition, performers agree to comply with all reasonable instructions issued by the organisers before and during the event.

Good luck!

We're excited to discover the next act to perform on the Homegrown Stage at Eats & Beats Festival 2026. Thank you for being part of Battle of the Bands and for supporting original live music.