Confident presentation and engagement with the crowd is how Rockshop Bandquest judges describe Bay of Plenty musicians The Chillens.

The Rotorua-based band took out the top spot at the Rockshop Bandquest recently.

Young musicians in Bay of Plenty took the stage on Monday, August 22, to show off their talent in the 12th annual Rockquest Bandquest competition, the nationwide live music competition for intermediate and primary students.

This year Bay of Plenty attracted 12 keen bands to compete at Baycourt.

Rockshop Bandquest works as a platform for the next generation of contemporary musicians to step on stage and perform; offering a space for young musicians to learn through experience while developing their teamwork, communication and goal-setting skills.

The top spot went to The Chillens from Mokoia Intermediate.

Judge Omega Levine thought the winning band stood out with their confident presentation and engagement with the crowd.

"The vocalists have amazing talent, and were singing with such mana and power. The band worked really well together as a group, and had a amazing sound with a smooth 70's vibe.

"This band could be out in public playing events already. I am excited to see where they go. Big congratulations to The Chillens for their amazing performance."

Co-founder director Glenn Common says the benefit of young people participating in the programme goes far beyond performance day.

"Rockshop Bandquest is a fun and creative space where participants learn through experience.

"The bands have to figure out how to work together, each literally playing their part to achieve a shared goal; developing their teamwork, communication and leadership skills alongside their musicianship and performance skills."

This year over 200 bands around the country have entered Rockshop Bandquest, performing in events run from August 22nd to September 3rd including four events in Auckland, one in Hamilton, Tauranga, Napier, Wellington, Palmerston North, Nelson, three events in Christchurch, one in Dunedin, and an online region for student bands based outside of a location holding an event. Following the regional events there will be an online national final with results announced on September 2.

The results

First Place (winning $400 Rockshop Credit for their school): The Chillens from Mokoia Intermediate (pictured, credit to Olly Dow)

Second Place: (winning $200 Rockshop Credit for their school): Downside Up from Mount Maunganui Intermediate

Third Place (winning $100 Rockshop Credit for their school): Acousties from Otumoetai Intermediate

Best Original Song (winning $100 Rockshop Credit for their school): L.i.t from Papamoa College Killer

Guitarist Award: Silent District from Bethlehem College

Rockstar Styles Award: Guitarist of Red Knives from Mount Maunganui Intermediate

Best Keyboardist Award: Conflictions from Bethlehem College Rocking Drummer Award: Grevous 22 from Greerton Village School

Rock Solid Bassist: Fine Line from Otumoetai Intermediate School

Musicianship Award (jointly awarded to): The drummer of The Hammerheads from Bethlehem College

Musicianship Award (jointly awarded to): The cajon player of Acousties from Otumoetai Intermediate

Best Vocalist (jointly awarded to): Renegade Republic from Otumoetai Intermediate Best Vocalist (jointly awarded to): Downside Up from Mount Maunganui Intermediate