Musicians wanted! Electric Picnic searches for talent for 2026 festival

ELECTRIC Picnic, the annual music and arts festival held in Stradbally, Co. Laois, has announced the return of Electric Keys, a new stage where artists of all abilities can share their music with a live festival audience.

Nestled in the Croí area of Stradbally Estate, and home to a memorably stand-alone piano, the stage offers an atmospheric, informal setting for musicians to perform. Introduced at the 2025 festival, it proved to be a massive success, with hundreds of budding musicians applying to perform over the weekend.

The stage is set to return in 2026, where curated slots will run throughout the weekend. Select performances will also feature on the festival’s social media channels.

Applications are now open and Electric Picnic invites musicians of all abilities to apply. Entrants are asked to submit a short video or audio clip demonstrating their musical talents.

Deadline for submissions is 5 June at 11:59pm; applications can be made via the Electric Picnic website.

Musicians can perform solo or as part of an ensemble with up to four musical accompaniments. In addition to the piano, the space will be equipped with a high-quality four channel PA system with a microphone to support live vocals and three additional instruments.

The multi-channel setup allows musicians to mic up vocals, a violin, guitar, or any other instrument they choose to bring.

Outside of these curated sessions, the Electric Keys stage will remain open all weekend, inviting attendees to join in and perform.

Electric Picnic takes place 28-30 August at Stradbally Estate.