The search is on for the Northern Territory's next generation of music talent, with the BASSINTHEGRASS Territory Artist Competition returning for 2026.
Now in its 23rd year, BASSINTHEGRASS continues to champion local musicians by providing a platform for Territory artists to grow their careers, gain national exposure, and perform in front of thousands at the iconic Mindil Beach on Saturday, 16 May 2026.
Following standout performances from 2025 winners Crystal Robins & The Wildfires and Jacksen Dulvarie, the 2026 competition will once again give emerging NT artists the opportunity to join the BASSINTHEGRASS line-up, sharing the stage with some of the biggest names in Australian and international music including Peking Duk, G Flip, Kita Alexander, In Hearts Wake, Ball Park Music, Venjent (UK) JessB (NZ), and many more.
Entries are now open to Northern Territory musicians across all genres and performing styles. Two winners will be selected, each receiving a performance slot at BASSINTHEGRASS 2026, artist accreditation, two General Admission tickets, and a performance fee.
Applicants will be assessed on recording quality, artistic development, and live performance experience.
Entries close at 5pm on Friday, 10 April 2026, and entrants must be Northern Territory residents. Winners will be announced on Friday, 24 April 2026, via the BASSINTHEGRASS Facebook and Instagram pages.
Delivered by Tourism and Events NT, BASSINTHEGRASS showcases Darwin as a world-class destination for live music and is an all-ages event. Featuring three stages, and more than 20 acts, BASSINTHEGRASS guarantees an epic day under Top End palm trees and flawless Territory skies.
General Admission tickets are currently on sale for $135. Once these sell out the next release of tickets will be $155. Premium options are also available, with prices varying based on inclusions.
For tickets, competition entry details, and the line-up, visit bassinthegrass.com.au [http://www.bassinthegrass.com.au].
Quotes from Northern Territory Major Events Executive Director, Aimee Luxton:"BASSINTHEGRASS has a proud history of supporting homegrown musicians, and the Territory Artist Competition continues to be an important pathway for emerging talent. Every year we see incredible local artists take the stage and prove that the Northern Territory is home to some of the country's most exciting new voices.
"Our audiences love discovering new Territory acts, and the winners each year bring something unique to the festival. Sharing the stage with established national and international artists is an experience that stays with them for life.
"We encourage musicians from right across the Northern Territory to put their names forward. Whether you are an emerging band, a solo artist or an experimental performer, this is your chance to play on a major festival stage in front of thousands."
Quotes from winner of 2025 Territory Artist Competition Crystal Robins:
"I think it's really important to give local artists the opportunity to be on a big stage and part of a big line-up with, you know, national and international artists. It's a great experience.
"I think we have a great local music scene. It's really important to support them [artists] and give them these platforms and stages to showcase their original music.
"Definitely get out there and enter. Have a go. I didn't think that I would be chosen, but you know, it happens, so yeah, I think definitely give yourself a shot."
