Young musicians rock at Devon schools Battle of the Bands final

North Devon’s entries did not take the top spots but all who attended Devon Music Education Hub’s Battle of the Bands final at Exeter Phoenix were full of praise for the skill shown by the young musicians on stage.

The event brought together some of the most exciting young bands from across the Devon, Plymouth, and Torbay, with a packed audience cheering on eight exceptional finalists.

Cliffhanger from The Ilfracombe Academy and Mentality from Braunton Academy were the North Devon schools taking part but Pariah from Queen Elizabeth's School in Crediton were crowned overall winners, impressing the judges with their musicianship, stage presence, and originality.

Nevik from Teignmouth Community School and Fluorescent State from Torquay Academy were close runners up.

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Other bands taking part were At Least Three from West Exe School, eXception from Plympton Academy and Locked In from Hele’s School. The audience were also treated to a high-energy set from The Revival, the Hub’s house band and official 2025 finalists, while the judges deliberated.

Above: Cliffhanger from The Ilfracombe Academy were among the finalists at the Devon schools Battle of the Bands, as were Mentality from Braunton Academy.

Speaking after the event, Lewis Gibbs, head and hub lead for Devon Music Education Hub, said: “What we witnessed tonight was nothing short of extraordinary.

“The level of talent, creativity and confidence displayed by these young musicians is a testament to the power of music education and the dedication of schools, teachers and families across Devon.

“Battle of the Bands is about celebrating young people finding their voice, forming communities, and expressing themselves on stage. Every act should be incredibly proud, and we are thrilled to support their musical journeys.”

Councillor Richard Jefferies, Devon County Council’s cabinet member for children’s services, added: “It was amazing to be at the final of the Battle of the Bands, it was a fantastic celebration of talent from across Devon.

“Every band that took part should be immensely proud of what they achieved, and my congratulations go to all the finalists for their creativity, confidence and commitment.

“Events like this show just how powerful music can be in helping young people grow, express themselves and shine.”

Judge Paul Giblin said: “What a great evening that was! An incredible array of young bands playing their hearts out and a feat of organisation getting them on and off stage so smoothly.

“Brilliant work by Devon Music Education Hub and a real challenge for the judges to choose the winners from such diverse talent. I was blown away and loved working hard with the other judges to score each act and ensure they got instant performance feedback.”

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Devon Music Education Hub would like to thnak all those who took part, the families, schools and audiences, Exeter Phoenix and the Hub team.

All of the finalists will receive ongoing mentoring from the Hub, with specially curated opportunities, such as performing at local festivals, record and releasing their own music and gaining industry insights.