The WMC Academy is all about promoting young talent in the field of music. Following the great success of the World Youth Brass Band in 2022, it will now launch an exciting new initiative: the first international project week for the World Youth Wind Band (WYWB). This promising event will take place from August 17 to 24, 2025 in the picturesque province of Limburg and will offer talented young musicians from all over the world the opportunity to develop musically and personally.
A unique musical experience
During the week-long project, the participants will rehearse together under the expert and inspiring direction of Flemish conductor Ivan Meylemans. Ivan Meylemans, known for his ability to transform a heterogeneous group of musicians into a homogeneous orchestra in the shortest possible time, will challenge the musicians to perform at the highest level and to grow together as an ensemble. The WMC has high standards for the quality and level of the workshops, so that ambitious amateur musicians, music college students as well as young professionals are invited to apply with an audition video.
The application phase began on March 7, 2025 via the official WMC website. This gives talented musicians the opportunity to become part of this unique project. The participants will not only grow together as musicians, but also as personalities in the international music scene.
A place for exchange and development
The project week offers an excellent platform to make new friends and network with like-minded people. Participants will have the opportunity to inspire and learn from each other. These experiences are invaluable in today’s globalized world. For years, the WMC Academy has pursued the goal of bringing young musicians together to promote creative exchange and strengthen music education in a broader context.
Nevertheless, it is important to mention that the WMC is becoming aware of the need for such initiatives. In recent years, funding for high-quality music education in the Netherlands has been declining. In addition to the dissolution of the LBM Youth Orchestra in Limburg and the National Youth Wind Orchestra, the WMC sees a growing need to provide a stage for talented young musicians. With the WYWB project, the WMC is creating a valuable opportunity to promote and support the talents of the next generation.
A look into the future: the 2026 festival
The WYWB project week is not only about musical development, but is also part of the preparation for the festival that takes place every four years in 2026. At this festival, a youth division will be introduced for the first time in the wind orchestra and brass band categories. This offers young musicians the chance to compete at an international level and showcase their skills to a wide audience.
Overall, the WMC Academy will not only provide a platform for young musicians through the WYWB project, but will also make a significant contribution to a vibrant and dynamic music scene. The first World Youth Wind Band is sure to be an unforgettable event that will leave a lasting impression on the participants and the audience. Be there and follow the development of this exciting initiative!
