.png)
Open Call
Ready to take the stage? Applications are open!
Apply as:
-
An established band
-
An individual musician looking to join a band
Musicians ages 19 and under are eligible. Applicants will submit a video audition, with selected musicians advancing to live auditions at Columbus East High School in October.
Finalists will battle it out live for a cash prize + future performance at Arts Alley Parklet.
Applications Deadline Extended: October 13
What You Need to Know Before Applying
-
Who can apply: Bands and individual musicians ages 19 and under from across southeastern Indiana.
-
Apply as a band or individual: Individuals may audition for the opportunity to be placed with other musicians to form a band.
-
Submit a video: Videos should be no longer than five minutes and should demonstrate musicianship, energy, technical skill, and performance presence. Keep content PG-13.
-
Bands: All band members must appear in the audition video. The audition song does not need to be the song performed at the final event.
-
Individuals: Individual applicants must audition using one of these designated songs:
-
Brainstew by Green Day
-
Seven Nation Army by White Stripes
-
Sweet Home Alabama by Lynyrd Skynyrd
-
Wild Thing by The Troggs
-
You Really Got Me by The Kinks
-
Zombie by The Cranberries
-
-
Live auditions: Selected applicants must be available to audition at Columbus East High School on October 24 or October 28.
-
Final event: Selected musicians must be available to perform at Battle of the Bands on Friday, November 20 at The Commons.
-
Primary contact: Each application must identify one person responsible for communications with event organizers.
-
Cash prizes: Prize funds will be issued by check. Winning bands must designate an individual who can accept a check on the band’s behalf.
About Battle of the Bands
Battle of the Bands gives young musicians the chance to perform live, build confidence, connect with other artists, and experience what it’s like to take the stage in front of a real audience.
Bands and individual musicians ages 19 and under from across southeastern Indiana are invited to participate. After video submissions and live auditions, selected musicians will perform at The Commons and compete for a cash prize and a future performance at Arts Alley Parklet.
Attend Battle of the Bands
Cheer on some of the region’s rising young musicians as they take over The Commons for Battle of the Bands.
Selected bands will perform live and compete for the title, a cash prize, and a future performance at Arts Alley Parklet. Come ready to discover new music, support young artists, and make some noise.
Friday, November 20, 2026
Doors open: 6:00 pm
Event: 6:30–9:00 pm
Location: The Commons, Downtown Columbus
Free, open to everyone
CAAC’s “Youth Arts” initiative empowers young people to explore their talents through the arts.
By providing resources and opportunities, we help youth build confidence, creativity, and a sense of belonging.
Collaboration
Battle of the Bands is presented by the Columbus Area Arts Council in collaboration with Kaila Lifferth.
Kaila is a Rock powerhouse, music mentor, and the 25-26 BCSC Teacher of the Year.