06/18/2025 | News release | Distributed by Public on 06/17/2025 12:51
Published on June 18, 2025
This year Amplify, the City's youth arts development program, reaches a significant milestone: they are celebrating a decade of presenting high-energy, bone-shaking, dance-inspiring rock n' roll (along with other genres) at The Show 10.0, Amplify's unique take on a battle of the bands, created specifically to elevate the talents of young musicians from Grade 7 to age 21.
The anniversary performance will take place on September 19 this year and Amplify is currently looking for youth bands and singer-songwriters to take the stage, with an application deadline of July 6, 2025.
"The Show is Amplify's trademark event," says Kathleen Bell, Community Cultural Coordinator and Amplify's City liaison. "To make it to year ten just proves how impactful it is to the young musicians in our community."
Bell goes on to explain that the experience can be transformative for an emerging artist. "This event is for youth, by youth, so the crowd is incredibly supportive and incredibly excited," says Bell. "The energy is incomparable. And to experience that kind of engagement when you perform truly builds your confidence. Artists walk off that stage knowing their music is worthy of sharing."
The opportunity is for musicians in Grade 7 to age 21 who think they are ready to take on a professional stage, filling a solid 25-minute set, with covers or original music. With space for only four or five acts to perform at the event, the Amplify Advisory Committee juries the applications and will announce the line-up for the evening in late July.
"The Amplify committee is looking for artists that have their music memorized, that can perform while they play, and bands that might be writing their own songs as well, though that's not entirely necessary," explains Bell.
Selected bands will be walked through a professional soundcheck with the Arden Theatre's tech team. As Bell explains it, the soundcheck is very beginner-friendly, and bands are encouraged to ask questions.
"After a decade of The Show, I know that the young musicians in this community can truly step-up if given the opportunity," says Bell. "If you're in a band that's ready to perform or you are a singer-songwriter that wants to share their original work, I highly encourage you to apply. It's an incredible night."
For more information and to apply, head to the Call For Bands page
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Last edited: June 17, 2025