WMC proudly presents a concert series showcasing the absolute world elite.
Leading orchestras from the international military music scene represent their countries as well as their unique wind music traditions. They present programmes featuring leading national composers and iconic works that have shaped wind music worldwide, complemented by exciting premieres.
German Night
Wednesday 15 July 2026 – Rodahal
Musikkorps der Bundeswehr (Germany)
We are proud to welcome the Musikkorps der Bundeswehr. This prestigious symphonic wind orchestra of the German Armed Forces, based in Siegburg, is the flagship of German military music.
With a tradition dating back to 1957, the orchestra not only fulfils an important ceremonial role but also shines on concert stages around the world. Its repertoire is remarkably diverse, ranging from classical masterpieces and military marches to original compositions and contemporary arrangements.
Prepare for an impressive evening filled with sonic power, emotion and technical perfection — a concert that seamlessly combines military tradition with concert grandeur.
Belgian Night
Thursday 16 July 2026 – Rodahal
Koninklijke Muziekkapel van de Gidsen (Belgium)
We proudly present Belgian Night, a musical celebration of Belgium’s rich wind music heritage, performed by the illustrious Royal Band of the Belgian Guides.
Since 1832, this elite symphonic wind band — complemented by its unique cavalry trumpet corps — has held a prominent position in Belgian musical history. With 74 carefully selected musicians and a trumpet corps of 13 trumpeters, all graduates of Belgian conservatories, the ensemble combines technical virtuosity with deep-rooted tradition.
During this concert, the Guides perform works from the rich Belgian repertoire, including original compositions and arrangements by leading Belgian composers. The result is an evening of musical refinement and patriotic splendour, in which historic marches, symphonic works and contemporary compositions alternate seamlessly.
Dutch Night
Monday 20 July 2026 – Rodahal
Marinierskapel der Koninklijke Marine (The Netherlands)
We are honoured to welcome the Band of the Royal Netherlands Marine Corps during Dutch Night, one of the three professional symphonic wind orchestras of the Dutch Armed Forces.
Founded in 1945, with musical roots reaching back to the 17th-century ship musicians of the Marine Corps, the band stands as a vibrant symbol of Dutch naval tradition. This evening’s programme features both historic and contemporary works by Dutch composers, showcasing the richness and diversity of the Dutch wind music tradition.
Expect an impressive combination of power, precision and musical imagination — an evening not to be missed by lovers of military music and symphonic wind music alike.
Final – International Conductors Competition
Wednesday 22 July 2026 – Rodahal
Koninklijke Militaire Kapel Johan Willem Friso (The Netherlands)
Once again, WMC organises the International Conductors Competition in Kerkrade. From a large number of applications, sixteen talented conductors have been selected to take part in this prestigious competition. During the final concert, it will be decided who takes home the Golden Baton, the competition’s highest distinction.
In the final, three selected candidates conduct a gala programme in the Rodahal. Before the interval, the finalists lead the Royal Military Band ‘Johan Willem Friso’, the leading professional military symphonic wind orchestra of the Netherlands. With its rich history, large ensemble of highly qualified musicians and important representative role within the Dutch Armed Forces, this orchestra belongs to the absolute European top.
The finalists conduct original works for symphonic wind band, placing their interpretation, technique and artistic leadership at the centre of attention. After the interval, the orchestra performs under the direction of its chief conductor in a full symphonic programme, showcasing its refinement, sound culture and versatility in all their glory.
An evening in which emerging conducting talent and one of Europe’s finest professional wind orchestras shine at the highest level.
Italian Night
Thursday 23 July 2026 – Rodahal
Banda dell’Esercito Italiano (Italy)
We are honoured to welcome the renowned Banda dell’Esercito Italiano during Italian Night — the official band of the Italian Army.
Founded in 1964, the ensemble consists of 90 musicians, all conservatory-trained wind and percussion players. In this special concert, they take the audience on a musical journey through Italy, presenting a programme filled with masterpieces by great Italian composers — classical, lyrical and symphonic.
Their versatile repertoire ranges from solemn marches and ceremonial works to original compositions for symphonic wind band from all periods. Immerse yourself in the rich sound world of Italy, performed by an orchestra that excels both at national ceremonies and on prestigious concert stages at home and abroad.
An evening of elegance, passion and Italian grandeur — Italian Night promises to be a true celebration for lovers of wind music and classical tradition.
French Night
Monday 27 July 2026 – Rodahal
Orchestre de la Garde Républicaine (France)
With great pride, we present French Night, featuring the prestigious Orchestre de la Garde Républicaine. Founded in 1848, this renowned French symphonic wind orchestra has long been at the foundation of the European wind band tradition and has earned worldwide acclaim.
After many years, the orchestra returns to Kerkrade — a special moment not to be missed. The programme highlights their characteristic French sound, featuring original repertoire, iconic works and masterful transcriptions that showcase the orchestra’s unique timbre. Under the leadership of its professional musicians, the ensemble presents an evening of elegance, finesse and classical allure.
We invite you to a festive evening where military tradition and concert artistry come together, performed by an orchestra that symbolises quality and musical culture in Europe. France at its finest — French Night will be a musical experience of the highest level.
