Saxon brass bands returned with gold medals from the World Music Contest (WMC) held last weekend in Kerkrade (Netherlands). The Oberlichtenau Marching Band achieved a “Gold with Distinction” rating in the Championship Division—the competition’s highest category—and defended its position among the world’s best by placing 5th out of 16 international participants. The association announced that it is incredibly proud of this success.
The Radeberg Marching Band also won gold in the Championship Division. In the Marching category, the ensemble scored 85.94 points in its first WMC appearance—a gold medal is awarded for 80 points or more. “After our world championship title in Rastede in 2024, the WMC was the next level for us,” explained club spokesperson Tom Thiele. The result shows that Radeberg has secured a firm place in the world rankings.
The Fanfarenzug Academy, founded by East German clubs and featuring six women from the Seenland Fanfaren of Hoyerswerda, also achieved gold status. The World Music Contest is one of the most important competitions for wind and marching music worldwide and brings together the best ensembles from numerous nations every four years.
