Neue Wände … goes Europe

NEUE WÄNDE 2026 is the sixth edition of this festival. Under new leadership, the festival aims to reconnect with its roots and bring the European idea back into focus. Today, more than ever, it is important to remember that universities and urban societies can only overcome the great societal challenges of the future if they are willing to collaborate and exchange ideas across national borders. Culture has always served as an ambassador between nations, and the younger the arts, the less they are tied to any one nation. NEUE WÄNDE 2026 seeks to highlight this with a special program by inviting student bands and newcomers from the university cities of Münster’s partner cities – Enschede, Kristiansand, Lublin, Orléans, York, and Vinnytsia. After a selection process, one act per partner city will have the opportunity to present themselves in Münster and exchange ideas with other festival musicians. This European program will be developed in close cooperation with the Office for International Affairs of the City of Münster.

Who can apply?

Bands of all current music genres, singer-songwriters & newcomers are welcome to apply. Applicants must be enrolled at a university in Enschede, Kristiansand, Lublin, Orléans, Vinnytsia, or York – or have most members enrolled there (any field of study).

What do we offer?

  • A 30 to 45-minute performance on 9 May at Theater Münster with professional equipment and experienced staff for sound and lighting
  • A backline is available on stage. Additional rental instruments may be discussed (travel costs!)
  • Optional live audio recording of the performance, provided free of charge
  • Photo and video documentation of the festival, also made freely available
  • Meetings with like-minded musicians from Münster
  • A coaching program during the festival days with professionals and lecturers from the Münster University of Music – tailored to participating musicians
  • Travel and accommodation costs for 4 nights (7–11 May) will be covered; a meal allowance will be provided

What do we need from you?

  • Brief introduction of yourself and your artistic project: Who are you?
  • Audio links or sound files (e.g. via Dropbox, WeTransfer, etc.): What do you sound like?
  • A confirmation that you or most of your members are currently enrolled at a university in one of the listed cities
  • Please send everything to: goes-europe@neue-waende.de
  • If you have any questions regarding the program, feel free to contact us via this email address
  • DEADLINE: 30 November 2025