Federal Music Festival 2026 of the Swiss Wind Music Association
The 35th Swiss Federal Music Festival (EMF26) will take place in Biel/Bienne from May 14 to 17, 2026. Around 550 music societies will take part in competitions and concerts.
At the 164th Assembly of Delegates of the Swiss Wind Music Association (SBV) on 25 April 2026 in Magglingen, the organizing committee informed the delegates about the status of preparations. OC President Nadja Günthör described the organization of the major event as a challenge that her team had mastered in just under a year and a half.
In addition to the musical competitions, the festival offers an extensive supporting program. Bands from a wide range of genres play on open stages in the city, for example on the Main Stage at the Esplande, at Guisanplatz or in the city church and the city library. A special festival app is also available to download. It accompanies musicians and audience through the festival.
A special highlight is the media partnership with SRF and RTS. The parade music with evolutions from around 30 clubs will be recorded and broadcast using golf carts. According to a press release issued by the brass music association on April 27, this is a world premiere. On May 23, all four national broadcasters will broadcast a live program with around 30 SRF employees.
Further information on the festival can be found at www.emf26.ch.
