Emerging musicians from across the Isle of Wight are being given the chance to open the Isle of Wight Festival main stage as Platform One announces the return of Wight Noize 2026, with applications having opened last week.
The competition forms part of Platform One’s 25th anniversary celebrations and will feature expanded eligibility for artists and bands aged 16 to 30, opening the opportunity to a wider creative community, including former students.
Wight Noize has become one of the UK’s longest-running grassroots music initiatives and has helped many Island artists progress from local recognition to major live performance opportunities through its long-standing partnership with Sky presents Isle of Wight Festival.
The initiative is aimed at performers creating original music, with applicants asked to submit audio, video and examples of their online presence. Successful entrants will gain exposure to a professional industry panel and the chance to perform in front of a large festival audience.
Last year’s winners, 5 Degrees North, join an alumni list that includes Beth Brookfield, Marnie Marie and The Optimists.
5 Degrees North, 2025 Wight Noize winners, have said:
“Winning Wight Noize and playing mainstage was the biggest honour of our lives. It was such an incredible experience which bands usually only get to experience when they are extremely established musicians.
“We never thought we would win – it took us 2 years of applying, but the end goal was something that would usually take musicians many years to achieve. To anyone thinking of applying – never get disheartened and just give it a shot.”
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Applications close on Friday 27th March, with shortlisted artists invited to perform at a live industry showcase at Strings Bar & Venue on Wednesday 15th April. One act will be selected to open the festival’s main stage, with runners-up also offered performance slots on the Platform One Stage.
Platform One has been involved with the Isle of Wight Festival since its relaunch in 2002, with opportunities for young musicians continuing to evolve thanks to the support of festival promoter John Giddings.
John Giddings, Managing Director of Solo Music Agency, has said:
“I am very proud to be a patron of Platform One. I think they do an incredible job of preparing young musicians for the reality of the music industry.
“I like helping people and my work with Platform One feels the right thing to do – they have integrity, and they are good at what they do.”
Andy Booth from Platform One has said:
“Wight Noize has been regarded as one of the longest running competitions in the country and always presents such an exciting outcome.
“We are looking forward to seeing the entries this year now that the age range has been extended to celebrate the 25th academic year for Platform One.”
Further information and application details are available via the Platform One website.
