50 groups join band contest

CEBU - At least 50 bands from different barangays in Cebu City are competing in the 5th inter-barangay band competition, which started yesterday with the elimination round for bands from the north district at the Cogon Ramos Sports Complex.

Bands from the south district will compete during the elimination round at the Mambaling Sports Complex today.

Eight bands are selected from each district. They will compete during the semi-finals at the Guadalupe Sports Complex tomorrow. Eight bands will be selected to compete at the final round on December 23 at the Fuente Osmeña Circle.

One of the objectives of the band competition is to uphold the identity of Cebuano music, as well as to help local artists develop their musical talents.

The winning band will be determined based on musicality, performance, originality and content of song. The finalists will perform one original composition and one cover song with their own musical instruments.

Band enthusiasts will also get a chance to vote for their favorite finalists online through 88DB.com, one of the major sponsors of the competition.

Armi Lou P. Rovillos, office manager of 88DB.com, said the finalist with the most number of online votes will be receiving the People’s Choice Award.

Among the awards to be given include Guitarist of the Year, Drummer of the Year, Vocalist of the Year, Bassist of the Year, Keyboardist of the Year, and Best Composition Award.

The grand champion will get P20,000 worth of cash prizes. Special awards worth P1,500 would also be given. — Harry Vincent H. Cañeda, CIT Masscom Intern/JMO   (THE FREEMAN)