2026 Test announced for WMC
The World Music Contest, which is held every four years in Kerkrade in The Netherlands has opened its registration process for bands wishing to compete for its 'World Championship' titles. The 20th edition will feature five divisions for brass bands taking place from 10th-12th July. The event attracts bands from across the globe with Brass Band Willebroek taking the honours in both 2017 and 2022.
A number of new compositions have been commissioned, including a new work from British composer Liz Lane which will be used in the new Youth Division. 'Mirage' by Jan de Haan composed in 2025 will test the Championship Division competitors. Lucy Pankhurst's work 'Ghosts of Industry' will be performed by the bands in the First Division. A new work by Swiss composer Etienne Crausaz, entitled, 'Modern Times' will challenge the Second Section with another new work called 'Black Gold' by French writer Thierry Deleruyelle will be played by Third Section competitors.
Bjorn Bus, the Artistic Manager of WMC, stated that interest for WMC 2026 is high, "We are heading for a very busy WMC," he said. "Bands and ensembles are eager to participate. At this moment, I'm receiving applications from all over the world."
To find out more go to: www.wmc.nl
Test pieces:
Concert Division:
Mirage (Jan de Haan)
Publisher: De Haske / Hal Leonard Europe
First Division:
Ghosts of Industry (Lucy Pankhurst)
Publisher: Prima Vista Musikk
Second Division:
Modern Times (Etienne Crausaz)
Publisher: Beriato / Hal Leonard Europe
Third Division:
Black Gold (Thierry Deleruyelle)
Publisher: De Haske / Hal Leonard Europe
Youth Division:
New composition commissioned by WMC (Liz Lane)
Publisher: https://www.lizlane.co.uk/online-shop
