Championing the unusual, the unorthodox and the unheard, Battle of the Bands is nonclassical’s emerging talent platform for early career performers
Battle of the Bands is back! Returning in March 2026 after a two-year hiatus, Battle of the Bands showcases new voices in experimental, electronic and contemporary classical music. For one night only at a venue in London, five artists will perform a set to an enthusiastic audience and a panel of industry leaders and artists.
We’re looking for bold, emerging artists working within / across experimental, electronic, and contemporary classical music. Artists must be UK-based, 18+, and can commit to a performance in London in March 2026 (date to be confirmed). If you’re unsure as to whether your act is fitting for Battle of the Bands, check out our playlist of past performances here.
The concert will feature up to five sets from different acts. Sets should be no longer than 15 minutes. We will be prioritising sets from solo and duo acts, and all performers will receive a Musicians’ Union rate of £162.30 for the performance.
Up to five acts will be selected through an open call, run according to Sound and Music’s Fair Access Principles (available to view here). Acts will be selected by a panel watching and listening to the performance examples submitted and the proposed programme, looking at whether it aligns to our mission of showcasing the best new experimental, electronic and contemporary classical music.
In the Google Form, each act must submit:
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A short biography
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An outline of their proposed set, up to 15 minutes long (e.g. set list or improvisation, including lengths of pieces)
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Two example links of their work (video or audio)
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Tech rider
They must also fill out our Equal Opportunities monitoring form.
Artists can apply with text, video, or audio, but please ensure that all links are viewable and do not expire before the end of January 2026. If you have any questions or need any adjustments, please contact marcella@nonclassical.co.uk.
APPLICATIONS CLOSE AT 10AM ON MONDAY 15 DECEMBER, 2025.