Fan Voting is Live: Get Ready for the Bach to Rock National Battle of the Bands 2025!

We’re excited to announce the return of the Bach to Rock National Battle of the Bands for 2025! This annual showcase is one of our favorite events of the year, where students from all of our Bach to Rock schools across the country take the stage to show what they’ve been working on. From high-energy covers to impressive original songs, this is your chance to hear the next generation of musical talent. Bands are nominated by their local schools and each group performs up to a four-minute set. They can choose to play a cover or share something original. Original songs receive bonus points from the judges, who score each band based on performance quality, stage presence, and musical precision.
Meet Our Judges
Ben Badger is a Creative Director and has been a staple in the music industry for over 40 years. He is the lead vocalist for “The Good Ol’ Boys” and a former Sony/Megaforce Recording Artist with his band “Fall to June,” which appeared on the Billboard Rock Top 40. Ben has co-written with members of Fuel, Saliva, Shinedown, and more, and his past clients have appeared on The Voice, American Idol, and many other major TV shows.
For over 18 years, Chris Furst has combined his passion for music and live entertainment with his career as Vice President of Entertainment. He specializes in developing large-scale entertainment districts, live events, and casinos, crafting integrated marketing strategies that connect with audiences and build loyal fan communities. Leading talented teams to create innovative campaigns and unforgettable experiences has been one of Chris’s greatest privileges.
Dan English is a renowned percussion instructor and arranger. Since beginning his career in 2009, he has taught at Medina High School, Syracuse University, and Onondaga Community College. Dan is the founder and director of Downbeat Percussion, the Official Drumline of the Buffalo Bills, performing over 150 shows a year at major events like NASCAR, the NHL, and the NFL.
Janelle Schultz is a dedicated music educator with eight years of experience inspiring young musicians. She currently teaches General Elementary Music and Chorus, bringing energy and creativity to her classroom. With a background in private lessons and music directing, Janelle blends individual instruction and performance to foster a love of music in every student.
Mark Fischer, a native Texan, began his music career as co-founder of the alt-rock band Three On A Hill, a staple of Dallas’s early Deep Ellum scene. After touring with acts like Jane’s Addiction and the Goo Goo Dolls, he transitioned into the record industry, working with legendary artists including Genesis, INXS, Robert Plant, and Lynyrd Skynyrd during his time at Atlantic Records. Mark later co-founded In De Goot Entertainment, managing bands such as Shinedown, Chevelle, and 3 Doors Down, and consulting for Creed. His career has included senior roles at Island Def Jam, launching ON-Entertainment, and developing BeardedFISCH Productions with syndicated radio host Redbeard. Today, Mark is a partner at Outshine Talent, representing top social media creators across music, lifestyle, comedy, and more.
Rhett Repko is an independent singer-songwriter known for his heartfelt, emotionally-charged music. Since releasing his first songs in 2017, he’s built an impressive catalog with five Top 100 college radio hits, millions of streams, and music placements on MTV, Netflix, and Fox Sports. Rhett has worked with Grammy-nominated producers and continues to craft songs that connect deeply with fans across the country.
Toni Stefano is a classically trained soprano and voice teacher with a Master’s Degree in Voice and Opera and a Bachelor of Music. She has performed leading roles in operas and her concert work includes soprano solos and performances with ensembles. She is the Artistic Director of a Christmas concert series and regularly performs recitals.
Born and raised in the deep South, country artist Trey Odum has been bringing his unique sound to stages across the country and internationally since 2014. Performing alongside award winning artists such as Florida Georgia Line, Luke Bryan, Dan + Shay, and even playing the Super Bowl 49 Downtown Phoenix Halftime Experience.
Key Dates for 2025
Fan Voting Opens: Friday, July 11, 2025
Cheer on your favorite band and help them win the Fan Favorite award. Voting will be open on the Bach to Rock website from July 11 through Monday, July 21 at midnight ET. Every vote counts!
Live Broadcast: Saturday, August 2, 2025
Mark your calendars for a full day of music streamed live on YouTube. Here’s the schedule for each division:
- Elementary School Bands: 1:30– 3:00 PM ET
- Middle School Bands: 3:00 – 6:00 PM ET
- High School Bands: 6:00 – 7:30 PM ET
Each set is packed with creativity, energy, and passion as students show off the results of their hard work and collaboration.
Ways to Get Involved
Whether you’re a performer, a parent, or a fan of great music, there are lots of ways to be part of the fun:
- Vote for your favorite band between July 11–21 at bachtorock.com
- Watch the show live on YouTube starting at 1:30 PM ET on August 2 HERE
- Host a watch party with your school, bandmates, or friends and celebrate together!
Follow the Action
Stay up to date with behind-the-scenes moments, winner announcements, and fan content by following Bach to Rock on social media. Don’t forget to tag your posts with #B2RBattle2025 to join the conversation and support your local talent.
We can’t wait to celebrate the creativity, courage, and talent of every student who takes the stage this year. Let’s make the 2025 National Battle of the Bands one to remember!