Calling All Musicians: Entries Open for the 2027 Sooke Battle of the Bands

Have a band, a song or a sound you want to share? The District of Sooke is helping amplify the call for musicians to showcase their original music and compete for a chance to perform at the 2027 Sooke Music & Art Festival. 

Organized by the Sooke Music & Art Festival in collaboration with Sooke Community Radio, the 2027 Sooke Battle of the Bands welcomes bands and solo artists from Sooke and beyond. Musicians of all genres and experience levels are encouraged to enter, with submissions open until November 28, 2026. 

“There's so much musical talent in Sooke and throughout the region, and we want to give artists an opportunity to be heard,” said Frankie Lawrence, Sooke Music & Art Festival organizer. “Whether you're just starting out or have been performing for years, this is a chance to share your music, connect with new audiences and be part of something that celebrates creativity and community. We can't wait to hear what everyone brings to the competition!”  

Beginning in January 2027, participating artists will go head-to-head on Sooke Community Radio, where listeners will have an opportunity to discover new music and vote for their favourites. The winning artist or band will earn a live performance spot at the 2027 Sooke Music & Art Festival. 

How to Enter 

Interested musicians are invited to submit the following: 

• Three MP3 recordings of original music
• A short artist or band biography
• An artist or band photograph 

Submission deadline: Saturday, November 28, 2026 

Email submissions to: FestivalFrankie@gmail.com 

Whether you're an emerging artist sharing your music for the first time or an established band looking to reach new audiences, organizers want to hear from you. 

Celebrating Music, Art and Community 

Since 2016, the Sooke Music & Art Festival has brought musicians, visual artists, local businesses and community members together to celebrate creativity in the Sooke region. 

The annual festival continues to provide opportunities for emerging and established performers while contributing to a vibrant local arts and cultural scene. 

The Battle of the Bands extends that celebration beyond the summer festival, inviting the community to discover new artists, support independent music and take part in selecting a performer for the 2027 event. 

Residents are encouraged to share this opportunity with musicians in their networks and tune in to Sooke Community Radio when the competition begins in January. 

Learn more: 

• Sooke Music & Art Festival: www.sookemusicfestival.ca
• Sooke Community Radio: www.sooke.live 

This is a community-organized initiative. The District of Sooke is pleased to highlight opportunities that celebrate local talent, strengthen community connections and support Sooke's vibrant arts and cultural community. Have a local story to share? Email communications@sooke.ca.