American Blue Devils to open anniversary edition of WMC 2026

July 29, 2025 - For its 75th anniversary edition, the World Music Contest (WMC) welcomes one of the world's most iconic show bands: the American Blue Devils. The renowned band will kick off the event on Thursday, July 9, 2026, with participation in the official WMC opening parade in Kerkrade. They can also be admired during several performances at the Marching and Show Competitions in the Parkstad Limburg Stadium on Saturday, July 11, and Sunday, July 12.

This special arrival marks the WMC's European premiere: The Blue Devils' European tour kicks off in Kerkrade and continues later in July with a series of performances at Taptoe Basel in Switzerland. The arrival of this top-tier American band is a joint initiative of the WMC and Taptoe Basel, who have joined forces to make this unique tour possible.

International inspiration at the highest level
During their stay in Kerkrade, The Blue Devils will provide various demonstrations and workshops for musicians and spectators. With their innovative choreographies, unparalleled musicality, and visual impact, they will inspire a new generation of show and marching enthusiasts. The United States has been considered the cradle of show band culture for decades, and The Blue Devils have been a leading institution in this field for years.

Paul Doop, responsible for the WMC's Marching and Show Competitions, is enthusiastic:

"It was really exciting to see if it would work out, but this is fantastic news for the WMC. We have been in discussions with The Blue Devils and Taptoe Basel for months. Now that we are jointly bringing this world-class band to Europe and hosting their first performance in Kerkrade is a dream come true. The direct connections with the Blue Devils – I am a former member myself – have helped get this project off the ground."

About Blue Devils International
The Blue Devils coming to Kerkrade operate under the name Blue Devils International (BDI). This demonstration band consists of a carefully selected group of musicians, including "age-outs" (former members of the A-corps from the 2023-2025 seasons) and experienced musicians from other American bands, ages 19 and up. Although BDI doesn't participate in the official competition during the WMC, their performances are anything but casual: they showcase the very best the American showband world has to offer.

The exact schedule of Blue Devils performances during the WMC will be announced later.

Kerkrade will be the vibrant musical launchpad for The Blue Devils' European tour. A unique opportunity for musicians and enthusiasts to experience this top band live in the Netherlands. Mark your calendars now for Thursday, July 9, Saturday, July 11, and Sunday, July 12, 2026!