Sauerland Herbst Brass Festival Heats Up: Sold-Out Concerts & Global Talent Draw Crowds
The Sauerland region of Germany is buzzing with anticipation as the 26th edition of the Sauerland Herbst brass music festival kicks off on October 3rd. This year’s event promises a vibrant mix of international talent, student projects, and workshops, but music lovers are urged to act fast – several concerts are already sold out! This is breaking news for music enthusiasts across Europe, and a significant cultural event for the region.
Demand Soars: Frederik Köster Trio & Thomas Gansch Supergroup Sell Out
The festival is already experiencing a surge in demand, with performances by the Frederik Köster Trio (October 23rd at Strack Hof in Sundern-Endorf) and the Thomas Gansch Blasmusik Supergroup (October 9th at Olsberger Concert Hall) completely sold out. District Administrator Karl Schneider emphasizes the festival’s core values: “cheerful, open – and above all international,” and the early ticket sales certainly reflect that appeal.
European Brass Band Powerhouses Converge on Sauerland
Beyond the headliners, the Sauerland Herbst boasts an impressive lineup of European brass band excellence. The Academy Brass Band and Brass Band Schoonhoven, recent champions of both the Flemish and Dutch Open competitions (with a 5th place finish at the European Championship in 2024), will perform together on October 5th in Schmallenberg-Kirchrarbach. This collaboration represents a rare opportunity to witness some of the continent’s finest musicians in a single performance.
The German Open: A Showcase of Emerging Talent
Looking ahead to 2025, the festival will host the third edition of the “German Open” (October 18th in Warstein-Belecke), a competition designed to showcase the most promising brass bands in Europe. Attendees will have the unique chance to compare and contrast a diverse range of styles and approaches to brass band music, culminating in a gala event featuring the Brass Band Rijnmond, triple Dutch champions.
Argentine Virtuoso & Spanish Flair Enhance the Program
The festival isn’t just about established ensembles. Sauerland Winds Bubbles on October 12th in Medebach will feature Lito Fontana, a celebrated Argentine trombone player hailed by colleagues as one of Europe’s best. Fontana will perform with a specially assembled orchestra comprised of musicians from across the Hochsauerlandkreis. Adding to the international flavor, Spanish Brass, known for their dynamic performances and global acclaim, will perform in Neheim on October 11th.
From Brahms to Disney: A Repertoire for Every Taste
The festival’s diverse program extends beyond traditional brass band fare. Folkwang Brass, representing the Essen Folkwang University of the Arts, will present a program spanning from Brahms and Gershwin to Holst’s Jupiter and even Disney favorites on October 25th in Finnentrop. This demonstrates the festival’s commitment to showcasing the versatility and broad appeal of brass music.
Salaputi Brass: Young Virtuosos Open the Festival
The Sauerland Herbst officially opens with a performance by Salaputi Brass, a collective of twelve young musicians holding solo positions in top German orchestras. Their repertoire, ranging from Bernstein and Sting to the Beatles and “Bond for Brass,” promises a thrilling start to the festival. This opening concert is a testament to the festival’s dedication to nurturing the next generation of brass musicians.
The Sauerland Herbst festival isn’t just a series of concerts; it’s a celebration of musical diversity, international collaboration, and the enduring power of brass music. With a program designed to appeal to both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers alike, this year’s event is poised to be a resounding success. For those hoping to experience the magic firsthand, securing tickets quickly is highly recommended, as many performances are already nearing capacity. Stay tuned to archyde.com for further updates and exclusive coverage of the Sauerland Herbst festival.
