Application Deadline: 11 September 2026 (Fri) at 12:00 NN (HKT)
Finalist Announcement: 13 November 2026 (Fri)
▶Hong Kong Asia Pacific Youth Band Sound Competition 2026 (The Asia Pacific Finals)
Date: 11 December 2026 (Fri)
Time: (To Be Announced)
Venue: Piazza area C, Hong Kong Cultural Centre
▶Asia Pacific Sonic Surge 2026
Date: 12 & 13 December 2026 (Sat & Sun)
Time: (To Be Announced)
Venue: Piazza area C, Hong Kong Cultural Centre
The above schedule is subject to change. Please refer to the Presenter's latest announcements for updates.
Presenter: The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups
Competition Format and Performance Invitations
a. The Asia Pacific Finals will feature six Hong Kong bands competing on the same stage with six bands from across the Asia Pacific region to compete for the top honours.
b. The six shortlisted bands from the Asia Pacific region are required to perform at the "Asia Pacific Sonic Surge 2026", held at the same venue on 12 December 2026 (Sat). The performance duration for each band is estimated to be approximately 30 minutes.
Eligibility
a. All band members must be aged 35 or under (as of 11 December 2026).
b. At least 50% of band members must hold a passport from the country or region they represent.
c. Bands must consist of 2 to 6 members, with at least 2 members performing on instruments. Each participant may only represent and compete for one band.
d. The band roster submitted at the time of application is final. No replacements or additions of members are permitted.
Song Requirements
a. Entries must be original songs in any musical genre or style. However, the songs and performances must not contain any political or religious remarks, profanity, or inappropriate content. Violation will result in immediate disqualification.
b. The core melody and main lyrics of the entry must be of entirely human origin, and must not directly copy or employ AI-generated outputs.
c. Finalists must perform the same original song as submitted during the initial application.
d. The total time allocated per band (including equipment setup, soundcheck, and performance) is 10 minutes. Points will be deducted for any overtime.
Instruments and Equipment
a. The Presenter will provide the following backline: 2 guitar amplifiers, 1 bass amplifier, 1 electronic keyboard, 1 drum kit with cymbals, and a professional PA system.
b. Participants must bring their own personal instruments and accessories (e.g., guitars, bass, drumsticks).
c. The use of sequencers, samplers, DJ equipment, and other production gear is permitted.
Judging Criteria and Regulations
a. A panel of music professionals will serve as judges.
b. Scoring Rubric (Total 100%): Musical Creativity (25%), Artistic Execution (25%), Band Synergy (25%), and Stage Presence & Style (25%).
c. Score sheets will NOT be distributed to the participants.
d. The decisions of the judging panel are final and absolute. No objections will be entertained.
e. The finalist list will be announced on 13 November on the Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups - Cultural Services Unit's official website (http://csu.hkfyg.org.hk), Instagram and Facebook. Finalists will also be notified via email.
f. The Presenter reserves the right to disqualify any participating band at its sole discretion.
Awards and Prizes
a. Asia Pacific Regional Champion, 2nd Place, 3rd Place: Cash prizes of HKD $5,000, $3,000, and $2,000 respectively, along with trophies.
b. Hong Kong Regional Champion, 2nd Place, 3rd Place: Cash prizes of HKD $3,000, $2,000, and $1,000 respectively, along with trophies.
c. Individual Awards: Best Lyrics (Hong Kong), Vocalist, Guitarist, Bassist, Drummer, and Keyboardist will each receive HKD $1,000.
d. The Presenter reserves the right to make final decisions regarding the presentation of any awards.
Transportation and Accommodation Arrangements
a. The Presenter will provide hotel accommodation for up to six members (including band members and assistants) per shortlisted Asia Pacific band for three nights (10-13 December 2026). A per diem allowance of up to HKD $720 per person will be provided (Breakfast: $40; Lunch: $60; Dinner: $80 per meal). The final amount will be calculated based on actual circumstances and arrival and departure times. These provisions are strictly for eligible participants travelling to Hong Kong for this competition. Participants must present valid proof of travel and passports. Failure to do so will result in forfeiture of these benefits.
b. The Presenter will provide shuttle services for Asia Pacific bands on designated routes: Between Airport / Control Points, Hotel, and Competition/Performance Venue. All other transportation costs and arrangements are the sole responsibility of the bands.
c. Asia Pacific bands are responsible for arranging and paying for their own round-trip travel to Hong Kong (e.g., airfare, train tickets) as well as their own travel insurance.
d. Should any participant engage in external work during their stay in Hong Kong, they are solely responsible for coordinating with the hiring entity and securing the necessary work visa.
Copyright, Privacy, and Rights Reserved
a. The Presenter reserves the right to photograph, audio record, and video record all competition events, performances, and related festival activities, and to utilise these materials for promotional and archival purposes.
b. Personal data collected will be kept strictly confidential and used solely for competition administration.
c. The Presenter reserves the final right to modify or amend these regulations at any time without prior notice.
Application Method (Asia Pacific Bands)
a. Complete this application form.
b. The Presenter will follow up with the applicant directly after receiving the application.
c. Entry fee is waived for Asia Pacific applicants.
d. Application Deadline: 11 September 2026 (Fri) at 12:00 NN (HKT)
Enquiries
Ms. Danielle Zhang
Tel: 2395-5753
Email: danielle.zhang@hkfyg.org.hk
Reference
Past Booklets: LINK
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