Tucson Federal Credit Union Presents Rock the Old Pueblo: Battle of the Bands, a Showcase for Tucson’s Next Generation of Musicians

Posted by Alyse Knudsen on September 23, 2026

Tucson Federal Credit Union recently introduced Rock the Old Pueblo: Battle of the Bands, presented by Tucson Federal Credit Union, a new music competition for Tucson-area musicians ages 12 to 25 that will take place Saturday, Oct. 31 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at La Rosa in Tucson, Ariz.

With funding for band, orchestra, and choir programs having been cut across Tucson’s public schools, TFCU created Rock the Old Pueblo to help close that gap.

“We believe one of the best investments we can make is in the next generation,” said Matthew Gaspari, President and CEO of Tucson Federal Credit Union. “Rock the Old Pueblo is about creating opportunities for young people to express themselves through music, build confidence, and gain experiences that can positively shape their future.”

Ten acts will take the stage in front of a live, all-ages audience and a panel of judges drawn from Tucson radio and the regional music scene. The competition runs in two rounds: every act opens with a cover song, and the finalists return to perform an original. Judges score songwriting, performance, and stagecraft, with audience energy factored into the mix.

Winners compete for a prize package that includes eight hours of studio recording time at Solid Rock in Phoenix, guitars and gear from local partners, opening slot opportunities at larger regional shows, and judges’ feedback and follow-up for every act.

“Rather than simply awarding a cash prize, we’re providing opportunities that help these talented musicians develop their craft and create long lasting memories,” explained Gaspari. “Supporting youth and strengthening our community has always been part of who we are, and we’re so proud to launch what we hope becomes an annual Tucson tradition that celebrates creativity, inspires young talent, and brings our community together,”

TFCU intends for Rock the Old Pueblo to return each fall as an annual Tucson tradition, spotlighting young talent from across Southern Arizona.

Posted in Arizona, Community Impact, Regional Member News.