Brass days 2024: Freistadt inspires with outstanding performance

Brass days 2024: Freistadt inspires with outstanding performance

Freistadt. Last weekend, the highly expected event of the 2024 wind day took place in the Salzhof, organized by the Freistadt City Chapel. This annual meeting for brass music fans attracted numerous ensembles that competed in medals and the encouragement of a jury of experts.

A total of 20 wind orchestras took part in the concert classification, including six guest bands from other regions. The demanding jury, consisting of Gerald Karl, the President of the Upper Austrian Blasmusikverband Hermann Pumberger and Roland Kastner, evaluated the performances in ten different categories. The respective orchestras were not only assessed selectively, but also received the opportunity for feedback talks in which both musicians and conductors received valuable suggestions to improve their appearances.

results and awards

The jury was satisfied with the high quality of the musical contributions. Gerald Karl, the chairman of the jury, emphasized the importance of supporting the conductors in their development process. The excellent services were therefore not only recognized with medals, but also used as an opportunity to emphasize the strengths of the musicians and at the same time to show areas for improvements.

A total of 16 gold and four silver medals were awarded, which reflects the remarkable performance of the participating orchestras. Particularly noteworthy is the Grünbach Musikverein, which achieved the highest score with 97.5 points in performance level B. Under the direction of Pepi Hoffelner, the association recently won a victory in the federal competition.

The second best result was achieved by the Musikverein Hagenberg, which was able to secure a place at 93.9 points in performance level C. The management of the orchestra was Oskar Gruber, and the Musikverein Hagenberg will also host the district music festival 2025.

The events around the wind days are of great importance for the region, since they not only contribute to the promotion of brass music, but also positively influence the exchange and support among orchestras. The high number of participants and the approval of the jury show how important such an event is for music culture in the region.