Frequently asked questions
Need to know? Start here.
Quick answers for applicants, finalists, audiences, and everyone planning to join us for Next Wave CBRM.
About the event
Next Wave CBRM
What is Next Wave CBRM?
Next Wave CBRM is an all-ages Battle of the Bands presented by NovaStream in celebration of CBRM's 30th anniversary. Five finalists will perform in a professionally produced live music competition, with the champion determined through professional judging and public voting.
When and where is the event?
Saturday, November 14, 2026, at Pittman Hall, Port of Sydney near the Big Fiddle. Doors open at 5:00 PM and the event begins at 6:00 PM.
Will the event be livestreamed?
Yes. Next Wave CBRM will include a professionally produced video livestream, along with video recording and photography.
Are there prizes?
Yes. The event is planned to include $5,000 in cash prizes and more than $10,000 in total prizes. Complete prize packages will be announced closer to the event.
Applications
Who can apply?
Who is eligible?
Bands, groups, and solo artists of all ages are welcome. For bands and groups, most performing members must live within the Cape Breton Regional Municipality.
When are applications open?
Applications open September 21, 2026, and close October 18, 2026. There is no fee to apply.
Where do I apply?
Applications will be available through nextwavecbrm.ca. The application deadline is October 18, 2026.
What should I prepare before applying?
Prepare your artist and contact information; performer names, roles, and age categories; an artist biography; genre and original-music details; at least one music or performance link; promotional material; and preliminary technical information.
You will also confirm availability for the live event and artist-development sessions and agree to the competition's declarations and rules.
Do I need a professional recording?
No. A professional studio recording is not required. Applicants need to provide at least one link that demonstrates their music or performance.
What genres can apply?
All kinds. Next Wave CBRM welcomes a broad range of musical genres. Applicants will not be favoured or excluded because of their musical style.
Can we perform cover songs?
Original music is required, but each band or artist may include a maximum of one cover song in their performance.
What if a performer is under 18?
That is okay—Next Wave CBRM is an all-ages event and competition. Additional consent forms may be required for performers under the age of majority.
The live competition
For finalists
How many finalists will be selected?
Five finalists will be selected to perform live at Next Wave CBRM.
How are finalists selected?
A selection committee will review eligible applications based on musical ability, performance potential, creativity and artistic identity, readiness, and overall fit within the event lineup. Existing popularity or social-media following will not determine selection.
How long will each finalist perform?
Each finalist will receive a 15-minute performance slot.
What equipment is provided?
NovaStream will provide professional audio, lighting, and video production. The planned shared backline includes a drum kit, bass amplifier, two guitar amplifiers, and keyboard.
Selected finalists will receive a complete technical package explaining exactly what is provided and what they need to bring.
Choosing the champion
Judging & public voting
How is the champion chosen?
The final result is 75% professional judging and 25% verified public voting. Three judges score musicianship, live performance and stage presence, creativity, audience engagement, and overall impact.
How does public voting work?
Voting takes place at nextwavecbrm.ca during the live competition. After each finalist performs, their individual voting window opens for five minutes. People may vote from Pittman Hall or remotely.
Vote totals, scores, and standings remain hidden throughout the competition.
Still preparing?