Glance out of the program
From a Percussion Break Dance Battle to the Dutch Open for Show bands, from top brass bands, fanfare and wind bands in the Dutch Open for the Concert Division, to soloists and ensembles in the International Ensemble and Soloist Contests, as well as concerts such as by the acclaimed WDR Big Band & Wolfgang Niedecken of the Rockband BAP promise to result in a spectacular show. This Anniversary edition connects established program components with new musical paths, and with this also targets a new and younger generation of both musicians and audience.
The spectacular opera "The Priest and His Servant Balda", composed by Dmitri Shostakovish, will be performed in the Rodahal during the opening concert. This opera performance contains not just wind music, but many cross over elements as well.
The contemporary jazz formation New Cool Collective will present itself in a special concert in which it will cooperate with several youth bands from the Parkstad Limburg area.
The acclaimed WDR Big Band & Wolfgang Niedecken of the Rockband BAP promise to result in a spectacular show. All these concerts will again take place in the newly renovated Rodahal in Kerkrade.
New Cool Collective in concert
The second competition weekend is dominated by the Dutch Open Concert Division and the International Ensemble and Soloists Competition (IESC). The contests in the Concert Division are intended for the world's best amateur wind, fanfare, and brass bands. In this division, bands are given the opportunity to present themselves in a one-hour concert. The IEES aims at young, ambitious musicians considering a career in music. For them participating and gaining international experience are the first priority.
An exciting outdoor festival is also held in the center of the city. A spectacular Percussion & Break Dance Battle will take place mid-September. Drum beats and break dances in a contest format will guarantee a breathtaking crossover for young and old.
The 5th International Round Table Conference on important topics for the wind music sector will be held in Rolduc Congress Center.