The YCIS Puxi "Battle of the Bands" is an event which is always a highlight in every school year. For this event, students form their own rock bands to play covers of various songs. What makes it special, however, is both the feeling of performing on stage, in front of the huge crowd, with the lights on and the cameras rolling, and also the process of being with your band, practising, laughing and succeeding together. Having personally performed, I can say that while there is some fear that comes with playing in front of such a large crowd, once you step onto that stage and perform for the sake of performing, those worries just melt away and its so enjoyable to be next to your friends, playing instruments together, and making it a night to remember.

All of this would not be possible without the help of the music department. Ms Beth Kerzee, Mr Matthias Peitsch and Mr Ashley Bousfield, along with technology director Mr Christopher Hurley and MC Tetta from Year 13, all worked hard together to ensure that the Battle of the Bands would be a success for both the audience, with dazzling lighting effects and enthusiastic commentary, but also for the performers as well, providing technical expertise and organizing the event. Battle of the Bands is truly a team effort, where all aspects of the school come together to make this one night a memorable and exciting one.

The Battle of the Bands is an exhilarating experience, both for the audience and the performers, and I would definitely recommend to everyone to come again next year to watch, to show support for the bands, and to enjoy a night of fun and good music.

By Anthony, Year 13, YCIS Puxi Secondary.