Neue Wände … goes Europe

The idea
The first NEUE WÄNDE festival in 2020 was all about the European idea. We want to build on this in 2026, because today it is more important than ever to remember that universities and urban societies can only overcome the major social challenges of the future if they are prepared to cooperate and exchange ideas across national borders. That is why NEUE WÄNDE 2026 invites student bands, singer-songwriters, and newcomers from the university cities of Münster’s European twin cities to present their music at the festival. This European program is being 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).

This is new: on 15 November 2025, the cities of Münster and Bologna were awarded the German-Italian City Partnership Prize 2025 by German Federal President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and Italian President Sergio Mattarella. Münster and Bologna, which were not previously twin cities, are now moving closer together. We are therefore inviting bands, singer-songwriters and newcomers from Bologna to apply to participate in the ‘… GOES EUROPE’ programme. The conditions of participation are the same. The application deadline for students from Bologna is 15 January 2026.

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

FAQ

Can we choose our travel dates freely?
Yes, you are welcome to combine your trip to Münster with a visit to another city or plan a longer stay in Münster. However, we can only cover the costs of travel between Münster and your city, as well as accommodation costs during the festival weekend.