In 2017 we launched BandStorm in partnership with Absolute Music. Our annual battle of the bands has brought to the stage a wonderful array of talented performers, bands and vocalists. It was a breath of fresh air to the area and culminated in a storming finale in Bournemouth’s ‘Canvas’, with the power-house that was Indiecisive being awarded the inaugural trophy.

In 2019 we extended the offer across the county, welcoming Dorset Music Hub as a new partner and bringing to the conurbation, a new and even more diverse array of talented young musicians. But, like everything else in 2020, the 2020 finale was cancelled due to the pandemic. However, all was not lost and all our finalists plus special guests were eventually invited to perform, instead, on the Horseshoe Common Stage a year later at Festival Coast Live 2021! It was a brilliant showcase celebration evening of the talent on offer, featuring The Dark Descendants, Family Dinner in Kent, Feedback, and previous years’ contestants Beat-Rice and previous competition winners Graffiti Falls and attracted an enthusiastic, appreciative crowd!

As promised, this Spring, BandStorm is back as part of SoundStorm’s 20^th birthday celebrations and its going to be bigger and better than ever!

Are you in Y9 – 13 and in a band, and fancy getting involved?

(you will need to be available for all dates):

Heat 1: Saturday 11^th March (Absolute Music)

Heat 2: Sunday 26^th March (Absolute Music)

FINALE @ The Old Fire Station, Bournemouth: Tuesday 25th April 2023

Deadline for applications closed

Watch the video below and see our 2020 finalist!