Home Blog

José Alberto Pina – Composer of the month

Helmut Schwaiger
-
0
José Alberto Pina – Composer of the month

José Alberto Pina is one of the most important Spanish composers and conductors in the field of wind and percussion music. His works are internationally successful and are aimed at different performance levels, which makes them particularly attractive for wind orchestras.

Pina studied orchestral conducting at the Conservatorio Superior de Música de Murcia and deepened his knowledge with renowned conductors such as Sir Colin Davis from the London Symphony Orchestra, José Rafael Pascual-Vilaplana and Lutz Köhler from the Berlin University of the Arts. His career has taken him to guest conducting positions with renowned ensembles, including the Freiburg Symphony Wind Orchestra, the Noord Nederlands Jeugd Orkest and various Spanish and Portuguese wind orchestras. His nomination for the Hollywood Music in Media Awards for the work The Island of Light is particularly noteworthy.

Pina’s compositions are characterized by a clear structure, melodic variety and appealing instrumentation. They are suitable for both ambitious amateur orchestras and professional ensembles. His best-known works include The Island of Light, Cleopatra and Dunkirk. These pieces are regularly performed at competitions and festivals, ensuring their distribution and accessibility to conductors and musicians worldwide.

José Alberto Pina has enriched the modern wind orchestra repertoire with his compositions. His works combine technical precision with musical expressiveness and are suitable for both educational purposes and concert programs. Conductors and musicians appreciate his clear notation and the ability to adapt his pieces to different performance levels. Pina thus remains a central figure in the contemporary wind music scene.

Two jubilarians of contemporary brass music: Thomas Doss and Hubert Hoche celebrate their 60th birthdays

Helmut Schwaiger
-
0
Two jubilarians of contemporary brass music: Thomas Doss and Hubert Hoche celebrate their 60th birthdays

In 2026, two outstanding figures in contemporary wind and orchestral music will be celebrating their 60th birthdays: Thomas Doss from Austria and Hubert Hoche from Germany. Both composers have had a lasting influence on the development of wind music through their musical works, their pedagogical commitment and their artistic vision. This essay pays tribute to their musical achievements and presents key stages of their creative work.

Thomas Doss (copyright Thomas Doss)

Thomas Doss, born on June 6, 1966 in Linz, is an Austrian composer, conductor and teacher. His musical career is characterized by great versatility. As a professional conductor and teacher, he has not only composed numerous works of his own, but has also led ensembles and encouraged young musicians. Doss’ compositions for wind orchestra are regarded as groundbreaking for contemporary wind music. They are characterized by technical precision, emotional depth and innovative instrumentation. His symphonic works are performed worldwide and have significantly influenced the development of repertoire in the wind music scene. As a teacher, he has inspired generations of musicians and enriched musical education in Austria and internationally.

Doss stands for modern, sophisticated wind music that combines traditional elements with contemporary sounds. His works challenge musicians and conductors alike and contribute to the continuous development of the genre.

Hubert Hoche (copyright Hubert Hoche)

Hubert Hoche, also born in Germany in 1966, is one of the most eccentric and profound composers on the wind music scene. After training as a carpenter, he attended the vocational school for music in Bad Königshofen, where he began his musical career. Hoche is regarded as a composer whose works demand intensive engagement – both from the performing musicians and the audience.

His compositions, such as the work “Mystika”, are characterized by philosophical and emotional layers. They combine Eros and ethos and challenge performers to engage in deep musical reflection. Hoche’s pieces are often referred to as “life works”, as they are not only technically demanding, but also convey a strong message. He set new standards with his music and added a spiritual and intellectual dimension to wind music.

Hoche has enriched wind music with his unconventional approach and his ability to realize complex themes musically. His works show that brass music can not only be entertaining, but also profound and challenging.

On the occasion of their 60th birthdays, we would like to express our sincere thanks to the two jubilarians for their outstanding achievements in wind and orchestral music. Thomas Doss and Hubert Hoche have left a lasting mark on the genre through their compositions, their pedagogical commitment and their artistic vision. Their works will continue to inspire musicians and listeners alike in the future.

We wish the jubilarians continued creativity, good health and many unforgettable musical moments.

Sources:

The Eurovision Song Contest – A historical overview and its musical successes

Helmut Schwaiger
-
0
The Eurovision Song Contest – A historical overview and its musical successes

The Eurovision Song Contest, or ESC for short, is one of the best-known and longest-running music competitions in the world. Since its inception in 1956, it has developed from a modest European event into a global spectacle that delights millions of viewers every year. The competition was created to promote cultural exchange and unity between European nations after the turmoil of the Second World War. Initiated by the European Broadcasting Corporation, the first competition took place in Lugano, Switzerland. Originally, seven countries took part: Belgium, Germany, France, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands and Switzerland.

The Eurovision Song Contest quickly developed into an annual event that not only showcases musical talent, but also drives technological innovation. An important milestone was the introduction of televoting in 1975, which involved viewers directly in the voting. The competition not only reflects musical trends, but also social and political developments. In the 1960s and 1970s, the ESC increasingly became a platform for cultural diversity and political statements. In recent decades, it has developed into one of the biggest television events in the world, bringing together artists from different genres and cultures.

Some of the most important milestones of the Eurovision Song Contest are closely linked to its winners. In 1956, Lys Assia won the very first contest with the song “Refrain” for Switzerland. In 1965, the language rule was introduced, allowing participants to sing in their national language. Another significant moment was the victory of Dana International in 1998, who won for Israel with her song “Diva” and went down in ESC history as the first transgender artist. Ruslana contributed to the country’s political and cultural visibility in 2004 with her victory for Ukraine and the song “Wild Dances”. Conchita Wurst won for Austria in 2014 with “Rise Like a Phoenix” and set an example for tolerance and diversity. In 2023, Loreen won for Sweden with “Tattoo” and became the second artist to win the ESC twice.

The Eurovision Song Contest has produced numerous musical successes that have shone far beyond the contest. Ireland holds the record for the most wins with a total of seven, including three wins by Johnny Logan in 1980, 1987 and as a songwriter in 1992. Other influential artists and their successes include ABBA, who won for Sweden in 1974 with “Waterloo“, laying the foundation for their global career. Céline Dion won for Switzerland in 1988 with “Ne partez pas sans moi“, launching her international career. Lena Meyer-Landrut won for Germany in 2010 with “Satellite” and brought new popularity to the ESC in Germany. The Italian band Måneskin won in 2021 with “Zitti e buoni” and developed into one of the most successful ESC groups of recent years.

Special records and successes underline the importance of the ESC. Ireland, for example, is the country with the most victories, while Sweden has the most top 5 placings. Sandra Kim was the youngest winner in the history of the competition in 1986 at the age of 13. The song “Waterloo” by ABBA is considered one of the most successful ESC entries of all time and achieved worldwide sales success. The most successful song that did not win is“Volare (Nel Blu, Dipinto Di Blu)“.

The importance of the Eurovision Song Contest for the music world can hardly be overestimated. It has developed into a global platform that not only promotes musical talent, but also addresses social issues. Many artists have used the ESC as a springboard for their international careers, while the contest itself has shaped pop culture through its diversity and innovative power. The combination of musical quality, spectacular stage shows and the unique voting dynamics make the ESC one of the most fascinating music events in the world.

The Eurovision Song Contest is more than just a music competition – it is a cultural phenomenon that has been connecting people around the world for over 60 years. From its humble beginnings in the 1950s to today’s spectacular productions, the ESC has always reflected the musical and social developments of its time. The competition’s greatest successes show how the ESC can produce artists and songs that shape the history of music. It remains a symbol of unity, diversity and the power of music to transcend borders.

Sources: master-music.de – The history of the ESC FAZ – ESC: All winners of the Eurovision Song Contest since 1956 watch-the-trend.com – Interesting records and facts about the Eurovision Song Contest

Current innovations April/May on musicainfo.net – An overview

Helmut Schwaiger
-
0
Current innovations April/May on musicainfo.net – An overview
  1. New works from the publisher’s releases

musicainfo.net has expanded its database to include the latest new releases from publishers’ announcements. Users can now find a wide selection of new scores that can be researched directly via the platform. Particularly noteworthy is the integration of audio examples and bibliographical data on the works, which are available to registered users. Furthermore, many data sets have been supplemented with scores, music examples, videos and radio tracks. This expansion enables conductors and music teachers to find out about new works quickly and comprehensively and to check them directly for their repertoire.

The database currently includes 2,403 publishers offering scores, books and sound carriers. This facilitates the search for suitable literature for various ensembles and orchestras and supports the planning of concert programs.

  1. Addition to the self-selection list of the Bundesverband Deutscher Musikverbände e.V. (BDB)

The self-selection list for brass bands of the Bundesverband Deutscher Musikverbände e.V. (BDB) was updated on March 31, 2026. This list is a central resource for brass bands taking part in competitions and is revised annually. The updates include new entries, reclassifications and deletions of individual works in order to meet current standards and requirements.

For conductors and music teachers who work with wind music, the updated self-selection list provides a reliable basis for selecting works. The list can be viewed on the official BDMV website and can be incorporated directly into program planning.

  1. Expansion of the literature database for youth wind orchestras of the Austrian Wind Music Youth

The literature database of the Austrian Wind Band Youth was expanded in 2026 to include numerous works for youth wind orchestras. Of particular note are compositions by Thomas Doss, which were published by Mitropa Music. These include works such as Jungle, Traffic, Outback, Dionysus, Of Castles and Legends, by Otto M. Schwarz Homeland, Cyril, Nostradamus, Millennium, Fire & Ice, and Asteroid. These pieces are specially designed for youth wind orchestras and cover various levels of difficulty.

The literature database of the Austrian Wind Music Youth specifically promotes Austrian composers who are suitable for both teaching and concert performances. Conductors and music teachers will find a valuable resource here to expand their repertoire and support young musicians. AJ (very easy); BJ (easy); CJ intermediate; DJ (difficult); EJ (advanced);

With these enhancements, musicainfo.net offers even more comprehensive support for conductors, music teachers and active musicians. The new works from the publishers’ announcements, the updated BDB self-selection list and the expanded literature database for youth wind orchestras are valuable resources for program planning and musical work. Users can rely on an up-to-date, varied and practical selection of works that meet the requirements of modern wind music.

Neil Sedaka – Life and musical legacy

Helmut Schwaiger
-
0
Neil Sedaka – Life and musical legacy

Neil Sedaka is one of the most influential figures in pop music of the 20th and early 21st centuries. His life and work spans seven decades, during which he celebrated international success as a singer, composer and pianist. This biography sheds light on his musical development, the highs and lows of his career and his lasting legacy.

Neil Sedaka was born on March 13, 1939 in Brooklyn, New York. His extraordinary musical talent became apparent at an early age. He began playing the piano at the age of eight, and at the age of nine he was accepted as a child prodigy at the renowned Juilliard School of Music. This classical training laid the foundation for his later career, but Sedaka’s passion soon turned to pop music. In his youth, he and his schoolmates founded the band The Tokens, which later became famous with the hit “The Lion Sleeps Tonight”. However, Sedaka himself left the group early on to pursue a solo career.

His breakthrough came in 1958 when he signed a recording contract with RCA Victor. His first big hit, “The Diary”, reached the top 20 of the US charts in 1958. But international success came in 1959 with ” Oh! Carol “, a song he had written for his then girlfriend and later colleague Carole King. The song reached number 9 in the US charts and became an evergreen. Further successes followed in the early 1960s, such as “Stairway to Heaven”, “Calendar Girl”, “Happy Birthday Sweet Sixteen” and “Breaking Up Is Hard to Do“. The latter reached number 1 in the US charts in 1962 and remains one of his best-known works to this day. Sedaka’s music was characterized by catchy melodies, romantic lyrics and a mixture of pop, rock ‘n’ roll and doo-wop.

Sedaka lost popularity in the mid-1960s when the British Invasion dominated the music scene with bands such as the Beatles and the Rolling Stones. His contract with RCA Victor was not renewed and he temporarily withdrew from the public eye. During this phase, he concentrated on songwriting for other artists, including The Monkees and Tom Jones. His comeback began in 1972 when he signed a new recording contract with MGM Records. With “Laughter in the Rain”, he scored a surprise number 1 hit in the USA in 1974. The song marked the beginning of a second career phase. This was followed by further hits such as “The Immigrant” and “Bad Blood”, a duet with Elton John, which also reached the top of the charts.

In the late 1970s and 1980s, Sedaka cemented his status as an international star. His collaboration with Elton John was particularly fruitful, and the two musicians wrote several successful songs together. Sedaka toured worldwide and released albums that were successful in both the USA and Europe. Another highlight of his career was his performance at the Live Aid concert in 1985, where he sang “Breaking Up Is Hard to Do” in front of an audience of millions. During this phase, he also experimented with new musical styles, but remained true to his distinctive pop sound.

Sedaka remained active in the 1990s and 2000s. He released albums such as “Classically Sedaka”, on which he reinterpreted his greatest hits with orchestral accompaniment, and “The Show Goes On”, which offered a mixture of new songs and classics. In 2007, “The Definitive Collection” was released, a comprehensive compilation of his greatest hits. Sedaka continued to perform and give concerts all over the world well into old age.

Neil Sedaka died in Los Angeles on March 8, 2026, just five days before his 87th birthday. His death was mourned worldwide, and many artists such as Elton John, Paul McCartney and Billy Joel paid tribute to him as one of the greatest songwriters in pop history. Sedaka’s influence on pop music remains undisputed. As one of the last great representatives of the Brill Building era, he influenced several generations with his catchy melodies and emotional lyrics. His best-known works include “Breaking Up Is Hard to Do”, “Laughter in the Rain” and “Love Will Keep Us Together”. His musical legacy lives on in countless cover versions and tributes, securing him a permanent place in the history of pop music.

New compositions in the database: Variety for wind ensembles

Helmut Schwaiger
-
0
New compositions in the database: Variety for wind ensembles

The musicainfo.net database is constantly being expanded with a selection of new compositions designed for different performance levels and instrumentations. This update offers a wide range of musical possibilities – from works for young musicians to challenging pieces for professional wind orchestras. The new compositions and their composers are presented below, with a focus on stylistic and instrumentation-specific features.

Ensemble: Music for 7-piece ensembles

The Ensemble Note category includes compositions specially conceived for smaller ensembles. Particularly noteworthy are the works “Forever near“, “Gablonz glassworks” and “Musicians with heart”. “Forever near” captivates with its lyrical melodies and harmonic depth, while “Gablonz glassworks” is inspired by traditional Bohemian sounds and is characterized by lively, danceable music. “Musikanten mit Herz” convinces with catchy melodies and rhythmic variety.

These works are designed for a 7-piece instrumentation, which makes them particularly flexible for smaller ensembles. Stylistically, they range from traditional brass music to modern arrangements that are both technically and musically demanding.

Young Band: Compositions for young musicians

The category Young Band category is aimed at young musicians and offers works that are technically and musically accessible without sacrificing artistic standards. The new compositions include works by Alan Fernie, Andreas Ziegelbäck and Matthew Rankley. Alan Fernie is known for his catchy melodies and clear structures, which enable young musicians to play with confidence. Andreas Ziegelbäck is characterized by a modern sound language that introduces young musicians to contemporary music. Matthew Rankley’s rhythmically demanding pieces provide an ideal basis for the development of technical skills.

The works in this category are designed for young wind orchestras and are ideal for teaching and early concert practice. They not only promote technical confidence, but also an understanding of musical structures and ensemble playing.

Intermediate wind orchestra: variety and challenge

For wind orchestras at the intermediate level, works have been recorded that are both musically and technically demanding without being overwhelming. The new compositions include works by Gerald Oswald, Richard Strauss, Johan Nijs and Robert Lisle. Gerald Oswald’s works captivate with a balanced mixture of traditional and modern elements. Arrangements of Richard Strauss’ orchestral works for wind orchestra offer a unique opportunity to experience classical music in a new form. Johan Nijs is known for his catchy melodies and harmonic sophistication, while Robert Lisle’s compositions impress with their rhythmic precision and tonal variety.

The works in this category cover a broad stylistic spectrum – from classical arrangements to modern compositions. They are ideal for orchestras who want to expand their repertoire and develop their musical skills at the same time.

Wind orchestra high performance level: demanding works for professionals

Demanding compositions have been recorded for wind orchestras of a high performance level, which are both technically and musically challenging. These include works by Otto M. Schwarz, Arthur Honegger and Matthias Rauch. Otto M. Schwarz’ works are characterized by complex harmonic structures and a profound musical language. Arrangements of Arthur Honegger’s symphonic works for wind orchestra offer a unique opportunity to explore the sound world of the 20th century. Matthias Rauch is known for his innovative compositions that combine traditional wind music with modern influences.

The works in this category are designed for professional wind orchestras and require a high degree of technical precision and musical understanding. They are ideal for concert programs that are intended to impress the audience with their artistic depth and virtuoso performance.

Conclusion: added value for ensembles of all levels

The new compositions in the musicainfo.net database offer a wide range of musical possibilities for ensembles of all levels. Whether for small ensembles, young musicians, middle or high level wind orchestras – the works are stylistically diverse and technically demanding. They not only enrich the repertoire, but also promote the musical development of the ensembles.

For conductors, music teachers and active musicians, the database offers a valuable resource for expanding their own repertoire and providing new musical impulses.

Vacation planning via musicainfo.net?

Helmut Schwaiger
-
0
Vacation planning via musicainfo.net?

You don’t know where to go on vacation this year? The musicainfo.net database will help you find new destinations! That’s crazy! The database as a tour operator? Well: Not directly as a tour operator, but you can get tips!

Select the category “Brass music/HaFaBra” and enter the terms: Travel and tourism in the Full text search line. The result will be more than 1000 “travel suggestions“, many of them with musical travelogues and even links to the most beautiful points of this journey. You might even get a taste for it….

Of course, you can also use the database in reverse: You went on vacation and are now looking for a suitable composition for a concert? Let’s assume: Croatia. Simply enter the country, city or region you are looking for in the “Full text search” line and you will receive the result: Croatia, or: Turkey, or: Andalusia, or: Scotland Highland, etc.

We wish you a nice vacation already now, and come home healthy…

Musical regents of the year 2026: Significant anniversaries and their musical relevance

Helmut Schwaiger
-
0
Musical regents of the year 2026: Significant anniversaries and their musical relevance

The year 2026 will be marked by outstanding musical anniversaries. Particularly noteworthy are the centenaries of the births of Randy Beck, Joseph Horovitz and James D. Ployhar as well as the centenaries of the deaths of Enrico Toselli and Carl Maria von Weber. These personalities have had a lasting impact on music history and continue to provide valuable inspiration for conductors, music teachers and active musicians today.

Centenary birthdays in 2026

Randy Beck, real name Frans Verbeeck, was born on September 12, 1926 in Tisselt, Belgium, and died on October 5, 2000 in Merksplas. Beck was a Belgian composer who was best known for his contributions to film and pop music for wind orchestra. His works are characterized by a successful combination of classical and modern influences and are still present in popular music today.

Joseph Horovitz, born on May 26, 1926 in Vienna, was an Austrian-British composer and conductor. He achieved international fame with his pop cantata “Captain Noah and His Floating Zoo”, which premiered in 1970. Horovitz’s work spans a wide range of genres, from classical music to popular forms. His work demonstrates an ability to combine traditional and modern styles. Horovitz passed away on February 9, 2022.

James D. Ployhar, born on September 22, 1926, was an American composer, music educator and film producer. His compositions for wind orchestra and his contributions to music education have made him a formative figure in the American music scene. Ployhar passed away on January 2, 2007, but his extensive body of work continues to be used in music education and performance practice.

Here is a list of other birthday anniversaries in 2026

Centenary dates of death in 2026

Enrico Toselli, born on March 13, 1883 in Florence and died on January 15, 1926, was an Italian composer and pianist. He is considered one of the most important representatives of Italian music of the early 20th century. Toselli’s work, which includes both operatic and chamber music elements, influenced modern Italian music and demonstrates his virtuosity as a pianist and composer.

Carl Maria von Weber, born on November 18, 1786 in Eutin and died on June 5, 1826 in London, was a German composer, conductor and pianist. He is considered one of the founders of romantic opera in Germany. His best-known works, including the opera “Der Freischütz” and “Aufforderung zum Tanz”, are still an integral part of the concert repertoire today. Weber shaped German music in the 19th century and laid the foundations for the later development of opera and orchestral music.

Here is a list of other dates of death in 2026

The anniversaries of 2026 offer a valuable opportunity to honor the work of these important composers and to place their musical achievements in their historical context. From the film music of Randy Beck to the popular cantatas of Joseph Horovitz and the operatic masterpieces of Carl Maria von Weber – the diversity of these personalities’ musical expressions demonstrates the breadth and depth of music history. For conductors, music teachers and active musicians, these anniversaries provide an opportunity to take up the works of these composers in concerts and lessons and thus keep their legacy alive.

Obituary of Dr. Paul M. Noble (1935-2025) – A life for music between Virginia and England

Helmut Schwaiger
-
0
Obituary of Dr. Paul M. Noble (1935-2025) – A life for music between Virginia and England

On August 19, 2025, Dr. Paul M. Noble, an extraordinary publisher, arranger and musicologist whose work had a lasting impact on the world of wind music, passed away. The sad news has only now reached us – a moment to pause and pay tribute to the multifaceted work of a man who dedicated his life to music and the connection between the USA and England.

A musical heritage between two continents

Dr. Paul M. Noble, who spent the majority of his life in Virginia (USA), was not only a gifted arranger, but also a passionate custodian of British musical culture. As the 32nd great-grandson of Alfred the Great, King of England, he felt a lifelong connection to the Cotswolds, Gloucestershire, Winchester and Cheltenham – regions that also influenced the composer Philip Lane, with whom Noble shared a special artistic bond. This deep connection with England permeated his entire oeuvre and made him a bridge builder between the American and British brass music traditions.

Noble began arranging for wind bands and jazz ensembles while in high school, a passion he continued to pursue during his bachelor’s and master’s degrees at the Shenandoah Conservatory of Music, Indiana University and the Catholic University of America. His studies also took him to the Universities of Michigan and Virginia, where he worked not only as a student, but also as a teacher and conductor at all levels, from school ensembles to professional ensembles.

A publisher with vision: Bandmusicpdf.net and collaboration with big names

Noble’s name is inseparable from Bandmusicpdf.net a publishing house which, as co-founder and arranger, he made into one of the most important sources for brass music literature. His arrangements – including works by John Rutter, Philip Lane, William Walton, Gordon Jacob and Sir David Willcocks – are performed worldwide and are a regular feature of festival programs in the USA and the UK. As a Licensed Edition Publishing Partner of Oxford University Press and a member of the American Bandmasters Association, he has set the standard for quality and innovation in the field of wind band music.

A particular highlight of his career was the CD recording of his arrangements by the Birmingham Symphonic Winds under the direction of Keith Allen, which was released on Arabesque Recordings. This recording documents not only his craftsmanship, but also his ability to unite British and American musical culture.

A legacy that continues to resonate

Dr. Paul M. Noble leaves behind an extensive body of work of over 350 arrangements played in concert halls, schools and festivals around the world. His commitment to brass band music, his passion for British composers and his tireless work as a publisher, teacher and conductor make him a formative figure in the music scene of the 20th and 21st centuries.

His death is a great loss to the music world, but his legacy lives on – in the scores he arranged, in the ensembles that play his works and in the people he inspired. May the music he loved so much pay him a final tribute.

“Music is the language of the soul – and Paul M. Noble gave it a voice.”

WMC-Kerkrade launches ticket sales for the 2026 anniversary year

Helmut Schwaiger
-
0
WMC-Kerkrade launches ticket sales for the 2026 anniversary year

The World Music Contest (WMC) Kerkrade celebrates its 75th anniversary in 2026, marking a historic milestone in the history of the international brass music scene. Tickets for the 20th edition of the prestigious festival have officially been on sale since Saturday, January 17, 2026. Interested parties can purchase them online via the official WMC website or on site at HuB.Kerkrade.

A festival of superlatives

The WMC is considered the “Olympic Games of wind music” and offers a unique program from 9 July to 2 August 2026. Over 250 orchestras and bands from 31 countries and five continents will take part in the competitions. The festival promises not only world-class brass music, but also a varied supporting program with over 450 events at various locations in Kerkrade, including the Rodahal, the Parkstad Limburg Stadium, the Kerkrade Theatre and the Market Square.

Highlights of the anniversary year

  • Opening by the Blue Devils: The renowned American corps “Blue Devils” will perform the official opening parade on July 9, 2026 – a European debut that will be the prelude to an unforgettable festival.
  • Competitions and concerts: In addition to the traditional concert, marching and show competitions, the WMC presents an exclusive series of concerts with top ensembles such as the Orchestre de la Garde Républicaine, the Brass Gala with the Cory Band and the finale of the International Conducting Competition with the Royal Military Band Johan Willem Friso.
  • WMC Fringe Festival: On four weekends, spontaneous musical performances in the streets of Kerkrade create a lively and convivial atmosphere.
  • Blow! on the market square: From Thursday to Sunday, the market square is transformed into a stage for top bands and the opening parade – a hotspot for music, parties and entertainment.

A festival with tradition and a future

Since it was founded 75 years ago, the WMC has provided a platform for over a quarter of a million musicians from all over the world. The 20th edition is all about fun, excitement and conviviality and underlines the international appeal of the festival. Festival director Bart van der Roost emphasizes the renaissance of the WMC, which is reflected in the large number of participants, the dedicated team of volunteers and the strong regional support.

Secure tickets

Tickets for all WMC 2026 events have been available for purchase since January 17, 2026. The full program and the online ticket store are available on the official website. Take the opportunity to be part of this unique anniversary and experience the fascination of brass music in Kerkrade.

Sources:

123...50Page 1 of 50