2011 BAND SEARCH

The KZN Dept of Arts and Culture, (Eastern Region), Child of the Light Productions, Pavilion Music and Pavilion Shopping Centre will partner to host the 2011 Band Search.

Some 15 bands will get the opportunity to compete for a highly attractive package which will be handled by Child of the Light Productions (Ernie Smith).
The objectives of the project are to create a platform for local up and coming bands to showcase their talent and get exposure. Another aim is to develop and record local bands and give them an opportunity to enter the music industry through professional coaching and mentorship. Through skills sharing and an advocacy programme for local music, the project will source new creative talent and provide sustainability and promotion of the emerging genres.

The competition is open to local bands of all races who have not yet recorded (unsigned) and are willing to be mentored in the art of song production. Genres include Jazz, R & B, Afro Pop, Pop and Gospel.

The search runs at the Pavilion Shopping Centre with five bands playing every Friday from 18h00 to 21h00 starting November 11, continuing on November 18 and 25 and followed by the finals on December 2.

Each band has three songs to blow the audience away. Registration is R400 per band for admin costs and video (handled by Child of the Light Productions). Callbacks take place at the end of November. Three chosen bands will be called to play again during this period (callbacks for second heat do not require a registration fee).Two finalists will play on December 2 after which the winning band will receive get a full album recording at Child of the Light Studios, produced by Ernie Smith.

During the recording and production of this 10-song album, winners will be coached and trained in the art of song production and band rehearsing skills. There will be a professional photo shoot and design artwork for the album. The prize also offers airplay on East Coast Radio and Gagasi fm with radio interviews on both stations.

The closing date for entries is November 18, 2011, and no late entries will be accepted.

Bands need to submit their application/CD demos* via Ernie Smith Facebook Page; email: ernie@erniesmith.co.za or drop off at Pavilion Management Offices. There are also drop-off boxes at Pavilion Music, Pavilion Shopping Centre and the Department of Arts and Culture (8th Floor Commercial City, Dr A.B. Xuma Street, Durban).

(*Bands who don’t have demos can submit their applications alone via the same process)

More information from Nalini Ramiah (Cultural Officer – Dept of Arts & Culture – Eastern Region) on 084 507 3330 or 031 334 2308 (office hours) or 084 648 6445 or email moodleyn2310@yahoo.com Otherwise contact Ernie Smith (Child of the Light Productions) on 074 1012397 or 084 648 6445 or email ernie@erniesmith.co.za