Music on the Barge’s legendary summer concert series is back with an exciting twist.
The 2025 Battle for the Barge is now a virtual elimination-style competition, giving local and regional bands the chance to compete for a coveted live performance slot at Gull Lake Rotary Park on Sunday, July 20, 2025, at 7:30 PM.
This year’s battle introduces a bracket-style showdown where bands will face off in virtual matchups, and the ‘audience’ will decide who advances. The competition is open to bands of all genres, and registration is now open until February 26, 2025.
How It Works:
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Qualifying Round: A panel of expert judges—Shawna Patterson, Fred Schulz, Kelly Hamilton, and Holly Carney—will select the top 16 bands based on their experience programming for Music on the Barge.
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Round 1 (Feb. 28 – Mar. 6): 16 bands compete, public voting determines which 8 move on.
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Round 2 (Mar. 7 – Mar. 13): The top 8 face off, 4 advance.
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Semifinals (Mar. 14 – Mar. 20): The final 4 battle, leaving 2 contenders.
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Final Round (Mar. 21 – Mar. 27): The top 2 compete, and the audience crowns the ultimate winner!
How to Enter:
Interested bands must submit their application by February 26, 2025, and provide:
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A video link showcasing their best performance.
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A stage plot/input list for the live show.
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A commitment to hold the July 20, 2025, performance date until March 31, 2025.
How to Vote:
Public voting will take place WEEKLY online from February 28 to March 28, 2025. Fans can follow the competition on Facebook & Instagram, and cast their votes at https://www.engagegravenhurst.ca/battle-for-the-barge-2025.
Why It Matters:
Music on the Barge is a beloved summer tradition in Gravenhurst, bringing entertainment to the community through outdoor concerts at Gull Lake Rotary Park. Admission is by free-will offering and is a favourite amongst residents and visitors of the area. The Battle for the Barge will give emerging and established bands a chance to showcase their talent online, and one lucky band will get to perform in front of a passionate, live audience this summer!
