Battle of the Bands - Monday 30 March

Soloists in Popular Music - Tuesday 31 March

Time: 10:00 am - 4:00 pm

Location: Anselm, North Holmes Road

Following the success of the CCCU Battle of the Bands competition held in February last year, we’re thrilled to announce that Battle of the Bands 2026 will take place on Monday 30th March 2026.

This year, we are also excited to introduce a competition for solo singers and instrumentalists which will be held on Tuesday 31st March. This will be for students performing popular music styles and could include, for example, singer-songwriters performing original songs, vocalists singing cover versions or songs from musicals, rhythm section instrumentalists with backing tracks, soloists such as guitarists, saxophone, trumpet.

How to enter:

To be in with a chance to play at this event and showcase their talents, bands, vocalists and instrumentalists will need to submit a link to an audio recording or video of them performing a live version of an original or cover song. The entry deadline is 16 February. The URL for your submission link can be inputted via the booking form. If you have any queries, please contact SCE@canterbury.ac.uk.

Battle of the Bands:

If selected, bands will be invited to perform a short set of 3 songs (no longer than 15 minutes) in the Anselm Theatre at CCCU, a professionally equipped performance space with professional sound system and full lighting rig. Audience members and student peers from music courses are also invited.

Soloists in Popular Music:

Solo performers and singers from schools and colleges across Kent are invited to perform 2 songs  no longer than 10 minutes). Performers can bring along an accompanist, perform to a backing track, or accompany themselves.  You will be amplified through a mic and PA, so should select appropriate music.

Competitors will perform in front of a live audience and judging panel, and performers and singers will have the opportunity to win a certificate within certain categories. One overall winner will be offered a recording session in one of the professionally equipped recording studios at Canterbury Christ Church University.

This is a fantastic opportunity for students to gain real-world performance experience, connect with peers, and celebrate the vibrant music-making happening across schools and colleges in Kent.