Students host college battle of the bands

Solent University hosted a Battle of the Bands for local sixth form colleges this week with Media Technology students on hand to provide support. There was plenty to do with nine bands each playing a 15 minute set over the evening.

Bands came from Totton College, Brockenhurst College, Fareham College, Alton College, Basingstoke College of Technology, St Vincent College, Richard Taunton College, and Barton Peveril College. The winning band was four-piece Electric Milk from Alton College who played three covers and an original during their set. They collected first prize of £200 and were also featured in the Alton Herald.

Now in its eighth year, the event provides great experience for budding musicians to play in a professional setting but also provides insight into the options and diversity available in higher education. It’s a chance for the sixth form students to see our facilities and speak to current undergraduates from a variety of degree programmes.

Nine students from Solent's TV and Sound Programme Group provided lighting, stage and sound services for all the bands over the day. Swapping between roles, the students found new experiences in mixing monitors and managing different stage setups. The event provided students with some high pressure turnarounds and allowed them to hone their teamwork as well as technical skills!