By a County Press reporter
Thursday, January 17, 2013
Becky Entwhistle performs at the Isle of Wight Festival.
ISLAND bands will have the chance to perform at this year's Isle of Wight Festival alongside acts including The Stone Roses, Bon Jovi and The Killers.
They will play on The Bandstand, which will once again be run and programmed by Isle of Wight music college Platform One.
College director David Pontin said The Bandstand showed festival promoter — and Platform One patron — John Giddings and his team at Solo were committed to providing opportunities for young Island musicians.
"John is determined to give back to the Isle of Wight by investing even more time, energy and, let’s face facts, money to support our work with young, up-and-coming local bands. It is amazing to get The Bandstand concept back at the festival.
"This dedicated stage will enable Platform One to showcase the incredible music talent of young people who live here on the Island," he said.
The winners of Platform One's Wight Noize competition will also open the festival's Main Stage on Sunday.
Aimed at young bands looking to break into the music industry, the judging panel will include Mr Giddings and a special industry guest.
In addition to performing at the festival, Platform One students have benefited from work experience placements as runners, stagehands, technical assistants and artist liaison.
Mr Giddings said: "I am very proud to be a patron of Platform One.
"I think they do an incredible job of preparing young musicians for the reality of the music industry. I like helping people and our work with Platform One feels the right thing to do. They have integrity, are good at what they do and underline that it’s the Isle of Wight Festival of music."