
WBAS International Youth Band Festival
15 - 21 December 2026
PHOTO: WBAS Youth Band Festival, Esplanade Concert Hall, Singapore
WBAS International Youth Band Festival
Where Passionate Young Musicians Come Together
Make Music • Make Friends • Make Memories
The WBAS International Youth Band Festival 2026 is a seven-day international music festival for young wind, brass and percussion youths musicians aged between 11 to 25 from Singapore, ASEAN and beyond.
Held from 15 to 21 December 2026, the festival brings participants together for intensive rehearsals, sectionals, masterclasses, workshops and cultural exchange. Festival activities from 15 to 19 December will take place at UTown, National University of Singapore, culminating in a public concert at the Esplanade Concert Hall on 21 December 2026.
Participants will be placed in one of four festival bands according to their playing level and experience. Guided by experienced conductors and specialist instrumental tutors, students will develop their technique, ensemble skills and artistic confidence while making music with peers from different countries and backgrounds.
The four festival bands will be led by:


Surapol Thanyawibool
Thailand

Bjørn Bus
The Netherlands

Stefanie Smith
Australia

Lim Yean Hwee
Singapore
Together with specialist instrumental tutors, the conductors will guide participants through a structured learning process that connects instruction directly to ensemble practice and performance. Through sustained ensemble music-making, WBAS iYBF 2026 aims to nurture musical excellence, collaboration, cultural understanding and friendships across borders.
Please read the following information carefully before submitting your application.
The festival is centred on high artistic quality, youth development and meaningful musical exchange. In a wind orchestra, every musician learns to listen, adapt, trust others and contribute to a shared artistic voice. Through rehearsals, masterclasses and cultural exchange activities, participants develop expressive musicianship, discipline, collaboration and a deeper understanding of music-making across cultures.
All participants are expected to attend all activities during the band festival fully, including all rehearsals, workshops and cultural exchange activities. Absences without valid reasons such as illness and critical family matters may result in removal from the concert, and no refunds will be made.
Participation fees are based on the participant’s country of residence:
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Singapore-based participants: SGD 120
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Participants residing in ASEAN countries: SGD 200
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International participants: SGD 400
The fee includes:
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Tuition
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Festival activities
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Concert participation
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Selected meals
Accommodation and travel expenses are not included.
How to Apply
You may apply through either:
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Immersive Workshop or
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Video audition (Prerequisite for consideration for the Honours Band)
A fee of SGD 5 applies for the immersive workshop, and will be collected upon confirmation of the assigned session date and time.
Application for Immersive Workshop close on 5 September. Students will be informed of their assigned session date and time after that.
Applications of Immersive Workshop will attend on 10 or 12 September between 10am to 7pm.
Immersive Workshop
Students may choose to attend an immersive Workshop to experience the spirit of the festival before applying.
During the session, students will join a 90-minute group class led by festival tutors. They will meet tutors and peers, receive practical guidance on instrumental technique and musicianship, and gain a first-hand sense of the learning environment at WBAS iYBF.
Applicants who are unable to attend the Immersive Workshop may apply by video submission.
Video Audition
Your video should include:
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Two contrasting solo pieces or études
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Each piece should be approximately 4 to 6 minutes
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Percussionists must perform on timpani, snare drum and one mallet percussion (xylophone, marimba, or vibraphone). Each instrument excerpt should last approximately 2 to 3 minutes
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The video must be unedited
Timeline
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Closing of application for immersive workshop: 5 Sep 2026
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Confirmation of immersive workshop session: 7 Sep 2026
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Attending Immersive Workshop: 10 or 12 Sep 2026
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Submission of video application deadline: 12 Sep 2026
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Offer of participation (results of audition): 30 Sep 2026
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Acceptance of participation and payment of participation fees: 12 Oct 2026
Why Join?
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Enhance Your Musicianship: Participate in masterclasses, sectional and full band rehearsals, and engaging workshops on musical technique and career pathways—all led by experienced conductors and professional musicians.
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Build Friendships and Connections: Make new friends and connect with fellow youth musicians who share your dedication, creating a supportive network in a positive, inclusive environment.
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Explore Inspiring Music Together: Enjoy making music as part of a high-quality ensemble and experience the excitement of performing in a culminating public concert.
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Play Challenging & Exciting Music Together: Push your boundaries as you take on fresh and stimulating repertoire in a high-calibre ensemble. Experience the thrill of making music with talented peers, and feel the excitement build towards the grand finale concert!
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Create Meaningful Memories: From rehearsals to performances, every moment at the festival is an opportunity for growth and joyful experiences you’ll cherish for years to come.
Who Can Join?
All youth wind musicians between the ages of 11 to 25 who are looking to learn, connect, and enjoy music-making together.
Ready to be inspired?
Auditions are now open—register and be part of Singapore’s most exciting youth band experience!
