• Submit an online demo or video of your band performing (Ex. website, YouTube, MySpace, etc.) by June 22.
• Send link to battlebands@norcalspirit.org.

If selected, your band will be asked to compete in 1 of 2 LIVE SUMMER SHOWS. Bands will only play at ONE Summer Show. Choose 1 cover song and 2 original songs. Summer Show places and dates:

• Saturday, May 23 ::: 8 pm – San Rafael at the MYC
• Friday, July 10 – 8 pm – Petaluma at the Phoenix

2 bands from each Summer Show will advance to compete at NorCal SPIRIT on August 15 at Stafford Lake Park.

• On August 15, the final 6 bands will compete for the honor of playing on the main stage and opening for the day’s headliner.

A panel of judges will score bands using the following criteria:

• Stage Presence – appearance, appropriate material
• Time – use of time (20 minutes)
• Originality – quality original material and/or interpretation of cover tunes
• Musical Ability – vocal/instrumental skill, intonation, complexity of music
• Audience Approval – applause, overall enthusiasm 

On August 15, the panel of judges will consist of recording industry professionals, producers, and musicians.

• Open for the Sanctus Real (play for thousands)
• 2-Day professional recording session at Laughing Tiger
• Cash Prizes

What makes a band?

At least two instruments playing most of the time. Solo acts need friends to play. Be between the ages of 14 and 23 years old and unsigned with any recording label.

Regulations

On the day of the performance, band members must be dressed in clothing free from obscenities, drugs, alcohol, sex, or any other subject matter not suitable for a family audience. Band name and lyrics of performance songs must not contain any obscenities. The entire performance must be violence-free and suitable for families. Drugs and alcohol (including tobacco) are not permitted in Stafford Lake Park. If a band incites moshing or any other sort of violence in the crowd, the band will be disqualified. 

Original material is encouraged. Do not feel obligated to replicate the cover songs unless you are a Tribute band. If you feel you can improve on a song, go for it!

If you have any questions please contact the Battle of the Bands Coordinators:
(415) 596-0833
BattleBands@NorCalSPIRIT.org

2009 Timeline of Battle of the Bands

May 15 – Deadline for submitting demosMay – July Registration fee of $40 per band will be due one week prior to each band’s assigned Summer Show. Bands will only play at ONE Summer Show:      

• Saturday, May 23 ::: 8 pm – San Rafael at the MYC           
• Friday, July 10 – 8 pm – Petaluma at the Phoenix

August 15  - NorCal SPIRIT at Stafford Lake Park