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Battle of the Bands
Date & Time
May 16 @ 12:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Location
Sonoma Plaza
Band Applications
Applications open March 1st
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Now accepting sponsorship applications
Music in Place is pleased to announce the 2026 MusicNomad Battle of the Bands, a youth- led band competition culminating in a live event from 12 pm to 5 pm on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at the Grinstead Amphitheater on the Sonoma Plaza.
The competition is open to students in grades 6 through 12 who perform in independent “garage bands.” Middle and high school-sponsored bands, combos, and other faculty-supervised ensembles are not eligible.
Bands of all musical styles are encouraged to apply, including rock, pop, hip hop, reggae, jazz, funk, blues, folk, country, and even classical.
Bands from across Northern California are welcome.
Preliminary judging will take place on a rolling basis and conclude with the selection of ten finalists and two alternates. Finalists will be announced on April 15.
Judging will be conducted by a panel of three youth and three adult judges.
Cash prizes will be awarded:
• $1,000 for First Place
• $500 for Second Place
• $250 for Third Place
The three winning bands will also have the opportunity to perform at the Sonoma Farmers’ Market on a Tuesday date to be announced.
To apply, please find the application here: