On Sunday, March 22, The Wanch — Hong Kong’s iconic live music bar — was buzzing with an energy rarely seen on a Sunday afternoon. Known for showcasing some of the city’s best live performances, the legendary venue (whose owner, Keith, is also one of our music school dads!) opened its stage to a new generation of rock stars for the very first edition of the FHK Music Battle of the Bands 2026.
And what a debut it was!
For nearly two and a half hours, seven student rock bands delivered an epic, high-level showdown that had the audience cheering, clapping, and singing along from start to finish. The atmosphere was pure FHK spirit: fun, supportive, vibrant, and full of community pride.
The competition featured an impressive and diverse lineup of young performers, each bringing their own style and stage presence.
ClassyPops, our amazing stanley orchestra with 9 members, kicked things off with a powerful rendition of “Clocks” by Coldplay, followed by the uplifting anthem “I Ain’t Worried” by OneRepublic — a confident and energetic start to the afternoon.
Next up, The Blackberries lit up the room with “A Sky Full of Stars” (Coldplay) and Rihanna’s “We Found Love,” delivering soaring vocals and infectious rhythm.
Radiant Rebels kept the momentum going with One Direction’s “Best Song Ever” and “That’s So True” by Gracie Abrams, combining pop sensibility with rock attitude.
The crowd danced along as The Royals performed “No Roots” by Alice Merton and the global hit “Dance Monkey” by Tones and I, showing impressive confidence and stage charisma.
With a darker, edgier vibe, Siren captivated the audience with Billie Eilish’s “Bad Guy” and “My Way” by Katseye, proving their versatility and bold musical identity. We loved their showmanship!
Then came NoLimits, who brought groove and funk to The Wanch with “Crazy” by Gnarls Barkley and a dynamic mashup of Daft Punk’s “Get Lucky / Feel Good,” getting the whole room moving.
Finally, The Iconics closed the student competition in explosive fashion. Their performances of “Beggin’” by Måneskin and “Shut Up and Dance” by Walk the Moon brought the house down — tight musicianship, commanding vocals, and undeniable stage presence.
After fierce (but friendly!) competition, the jury announced the winners: The Iconics!
The band proudly received their trophy to roaring applause — a well-deserved victory that marked the highlight of the afternoon.
The excitement didn’t stop there.
The audience was treated to beautiful performances by the teachers. Amel & Mikey – “The 2 of Us” Duo charmed the crowd with “Easy to Fall in Love” by Olivia Dean and “Home” by Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros — an intimate and heartfelt moment.
To close the show in spectacular style, Domitille and her band HolyBay delivered a stunning set that truly delighted the audience’s ears. Their powerful performance included:
It was the perfect grand finale — professional, electrifying, and deeply inspiring for the young musicians who had just rocked the same stage.
Beyond the trophies and applause, this first edition of the FHK Music Battle of the Bands was above all a celebration of music, courage, teamwork, and community. Seeing these young performers take over such an iconic Hong Kong stage was a proud and emotional moment for families, teachers, and friends alike.
The Wanch once again proved why it remains a cornerstone of live music in Hong Kong — and on March 22, it belonged to the next generation.
An unforgettable afternoon of pop-rock, laughter, and shared passion.
Same time next year? Absolutely. We can’t wait for Battle of the Bands 2027!
On Sunday, March 22, The Wanch — Hong Kong’s iconic live music bar — was buzzing with an energy rarely seen on a Sunday afternoon. Known for showcasing some of the city’s best live performances, the legendary venue (whose owner, Keith, is also one of our music school dads!) opened its stage to a new generation of rock stars for the very first edition of the FHK Music Battle of the Bands 2026.
And what a debut it was!
For nearly two and a half hours, seven student rock bands delivered an epic, high-level showdown that had the audience cheering, clapping, and singing along from start to finish. The atmosphere was pure FHK spirit: fun, supportive, vibrant, and full of community pride.
The competition featured an impressive and diverse lineup of young performers, each bringing their own style and stage presence.
ClassyPops, our amazing stanley orchestra with 9 members, kicked things off with a powerful rendition of “Clocks” by Coldplay, followed by the uplifting anthem “I Ain’t Worried” by OneRepublic — a confident and energetic start to the afternoon.
Next up, The Blackberries lit up the room with “A Sky Full of Stars” (Coldplay) and Rihanna’s “We Found Love,” delivering soaring vocals and infectious rhythm.
Radiant Rebels kept the momentum going with One Direction’s “Best Song Ever” and “That’s So True” by Gracie Abrams, combining pop sensibility with rock attitude.
The crowd danced along as The Royals performed “No Roots” by Alice Merton and the global hit “Dance Monkey” by Tones and I, showing impressive confidence and stage charisma.
With a darker, edgier vibe, Siren captivated the audience with Billie Eilish’s “Bad Guy” and “My Way” by Katseye, proving their versatility and bold musical identity. We loved their showmanship!
Then came NoLimits, who brought groove and funk to The Wanch with “Crazy” by Gnarls Barkley and a dynamic mashup of Daft Punk’s “Get Lucky / Feel Good,” getting the whole room moving.
Finally, The Iconics closed the student competition in explosive fashion. Their performances of “Beggin’” by Måneskin and “Shut Up and Dance” by Walk the Moon brought the house down — tight musicianship, commanding vocals, and undeniable stage presence.
After fierce (but friendly!) competition, the jury announced the winners: The Iconics!
The band proudly received their trophy to roaring applause — a well-deserved victory that marked the highlight of the afternoon.
The excitement didn’t stop there.
The audience was treated to beautiful performances by the teachers. Amel & Mikey – “The 2 of Us” Duo charmed the crowd with “Easy to Fall in Love” by Olivia Dean and “Home” by Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros — an intimate and heartfelt moment.
To close the show in spectacular style, Domitille and her band HolyBay delivered a stunning set that truly delighted the audience’s ears. Their powerful performance included:
It was the perfect grand finale — professional, electrifying, and deeply inspiring for the young musicians who had just rocked the same stage.
Beyond the trophies and applause, this first edition of the FHK Music Battle of the Bands was above all a celebration of music, courage, teamwork, and community. Seeing these young performers take over such an iconic Hong Kong stage was a proud and emotional moment for families, teachers, and friends alike.
The Wanch once again proved why it remains a cornerstone of live music in Hong Kong — and on March 22, it belonged to the next generation.
An unforgettable afternoon of pop-rock, laughter, and shared passion.
Same time next year? Absolutely. We can’t wait for Battle of the Bands 2027!

