Cambridge Band Competition 2015 Open for Entries

The 2015 Cambridge Band Competition is now accepting entries for its 30th Anniversary year. Entrants could become a part of history if they win, as the Cambridge Rock/Band Competition is the longest running competition of its kind in the UK. First launched in 1985 at Cambridge’s Guild Hall, the competition picked up immediate national attention thanks to Trevor Dann and the Old Grey Whistle Test. Infamously, Colonel Gomez caused a national controversy with their performance on that show, controversy that even led to questions being asked in parliament about the incident! More was to come though, with the ‘debatable’ decision to award the first prize to ‘The Detective’ – a decision that caused consternation amongst some as, although they made the tapes themselves, The Detective performed on stage to a backing track!

In the last 30 years the Band Competition has produced some great winners - including the remarkable Grace Sarah (almost a wildcard as the Under 18 heat winner, she wowed and won the competition in 2012, singlehandedly inspiring the Under 18’s breakaway competition) - and stars who have gone on to do bigger things! Ezio were named as Tony Blair’s favourite band, Ben Miller of ‘Armstrong & Miller’ came third in 1990 with a trio called ‘The Dear Johns’, and one of the most memorable winners - thanks to pure energy & great music - were Tom Dalpra & Nutmeg. Members of other bands have gone on to work with some top names in the industry, and all have fond recollections of being involved in the event.

Previously held at the Guild Hall, and then the Corn Exchange (sold out heats and finals), the competition in the 1990s then moved to the Junction – where this year’s finals will be held.

Both the Adults and Under 18’s competitions will run in tandem with each other in 2015 with heats being held at The Portland Arms in March, and the grand finals on Saturday April 18th at The Junction. Prizes will include £300 cash, and a range of musical and developmental prizes TBA, and festival performance slots.

Entries are open until Friday 23rd January, and heats will be announced on Monday 26th January.

Application forms are available via the Strawberry Fair website at www.strawberry-fair.org.uk