A Musical Affair in Netherlands

Kerkrade is a small town located in the south east of Netherlands near the German border. Every four years, it turns into the centre of fanfare and booming trombones, as thousands of musicians from around the world converge for the World Music Contest. This European music festival is more than just a contest, hosting a large outdoor festival as well as the World Youth Music Camp. This year, the global event is expected to see participation from about 300 bands and nearly 20,000 musicians from over 30 countries.

Hear the music

The World Music Contest is an international celebration of music specifically for wind and brass instruments. The opening ceremony will be held on July 4, 2013 with  competitions spanning over three weekends from July 13th to 28th. One can expect to see a lot of pomp and pageantry from brass and woodwind instruments, including categories such as Brass Band, Wind & Fanfare Bands and Percussion Ensemble.

The World Youth Music Camp which will be held as part of the contest is aimed at bringing together young wind and brass ensembles that can learn from one another as well as from world renowned music educators present at the event.  The youth will also form small chamber ensembles and large massed bands to perform with guest conductors.  This is an exciting event not only for the youth, but also for those attending, to see what the future of music looks like. With attendees from across Europe, America and Asia, the potential diversity of musical styles and innovation will be worth experiencing.

Step over the border

Given its proximity to the German border, Kerkrade is closely linked to its German neighbouring town, Herzogenrath. The border is relatively unrestricted and runs through the middle of the street Nieuwstraat, so you can literally be in two countries at one time.

Kerkrade can be reached by train via the nearby Heerlen station which has connections  within the Netherlands as well as to other destinations in Europe. If you are looking to travel from Germany, head to Landgraaf station which will connect you to the German border town of Herzogenrath.

There are several buses that connect to major towns in the Netherlands or via Germany.  At the City Centre bus station, you can check to see which one will take you to your preferred destination. If you are flying in to the Netherlands, the nearest airport is Maastricht-Aachen which has some international connections.  There are larger airports which are only a few hours away, and easily accessible by train. These include Dusseldorf International Airport, Brussels International Airport and Amsterdam Schiphol Airport.

Whilst Kerkrade is a small town, it has several hotels that offer comfortable accommodation; the town is small enough to ensure you are never too far away from the venue.  You could try Conferentieoord & Hotel Rolduc or Hotel Wilhelmina if you are looking for something a bit cosier.

Want to hear the trombones? MakeMyTrip offers flights in to Masstricht-Aachen airport, Dusseldorf and Amsterdam. From there, you can easily catch a train to Kerkrade.