Carisbrooke College’s first-ever Battle of the Bands has been hailed as an unforgettable success after more than 50 students performed in front of a packed school hall.
Students, parents, families, friends and staff came together for the inaugural event, which saw 16 acts perform across the evening in what organisers described as a celebration of the school’s musical talent and creativity.
Awards were handed out for Best Band, Best Solo Artist, Best Moment, Style Icon and People’s Choice.
The judging panel included Andy Booth, Claire Paul, Jake Curran and retiring Cover Supervisor Steve Freeman, who stepped in as a special guest judge ahead of his retirement after 10 years at the school.
Andy Booth, Music Industry Liaison at Platform One College of Music and owner of Strings Music Venue, said:
“It takes a huge amount of confidence to perform in front of a packed house and it was amazing to see so many young people give it a go.
“Equally, the support from peers, friends and family was incredible – a huge success!”
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Year 9 pupils MC Smith and MC Maxi hosted the evening, entertaining the crowd throughout with introductions and humour.
Award winners included Gilbert and the Stones, who took home Best Band for their performance of Paint It Black, while Patience won Best Solo Artist for an acoustic rendition of Stick Season.
Year 11 band Shed secured Best Moment for performing their original song Again, with The Messengers winning Style Icon for their coordinated shirts and bucket hats.
The People’s Choice award went to Merrin after a performance of Champagne Supernova, which saw audience members lighting the hall with phone torches.
Music journalist Jake Curran said:
“The Carisbrooke students put on incredible performances throughout the whole evening.
“Deciding winners was a tough job, but seeing young musicians enjoying themselves on stage was amazing.”
Claire Paul, Director of Education at Creative Island, said:
“I was so blown away by the skill and confidence of the students, they were professional and entertaining throughout.
“Thank you so much for organising something so aspirational and memorable for them.”
The evening was also dedicated to the memory of caretaker Pete Ball, who sadly passed away at Easter.
The event concluded with performances of Punk Rocker by Iggy Pop – said to be Pete’s favourite song – followed by a mass finale performance of Live Forever by Oasis featuring all performers on stage together.
Donations raised during the evening will go towards supporting future music opportunities and events at the college in Pete’s memory.
Natalie Sheppard, Headteacher of Carisbrooke College, said:
“I’ve worked in education for many years and I can honestly say that this event blew me away.
“We were blessed with judges with an incredibly inspiring profile.
“The support our students showed for one another was pure magic.
“And our community feel was deeply moving.
“Music is at the heart of the Island and I’m so proud of our connection to it and all the very important benefits it brings.
“Thank you so much to everyone for a truly special event.”
