Battling bands in Mabou

First-ever Battle of the Bands at Strathspey Performing Arts Centre

Strathspey Performing Arts Centre is reaching out to all schools and communities throughout Inverness County to spark interest and collaboration in the first “Battle of the Bands” competition.

Anyone who hasn’t done a professional recording to date is welcome to apply.

Organizers are hoping for applications from all age groups as well as solo and group efforts. All applications will be reviewed by a panel of judges, which includes Allie Bennett, Marilyn MacDonald-MacKinnon and Andre Pettipas of Andre and the Giants with host SaltWire Network personality Cindy Day.

Five top bands will be chosen to “show down” at Strathspey on Nov. 24, 7 p.m.

These five bands will compete for eight hours of recording time with sound engineer Rob Stone at Strathspey Performing Arts Centre in Mabou plus a logo design by Sara Rankin Creative. All participants will receive a free membership to Strathspey and a free demo

recording from their performance, recorded on the night of their debut.

Bands or individual artists can apply by completing the application form available online at www.strathspeyplace.com. Registration runs until Nov. 9. There is no registration fee.

The competition is looking for amateur singer/songwriters with an original sound and music or full bands with original music. Those who enter are asked to perform fiveminute sets plus a two-minute introduction of their song.

Ticket prices for the Nov. 24 concert are $20 in advance, $15 for members and $15 for youth.

Tickets are available online at www.strathspeyplace.com or by phoning 902-945-5300.