Musical fireworks in Lommatzsch: 35th state championship thrilled!

Musical fireworks in Lommatzsch: 35th state championship thrilled!

Last weekend, June 21st and 22nd, 2025, the 35th state marching band championship took place in Lommatzsch. In bright sunshine and temperatures of up to 31 degrees in the shade, around 500 participants from all over Saxony came to demonstrate their musical skills. Chairman of the Lommatzscher Spielleute e.V., Felix Böttcher, spoke of a special challenge posed by the heat that was demanded of both the musicians and the audience. It was the sixth edition of this traditional event, which has been held in Lommatzsch since 1999 and was carried out with particularly great enthusiasm this year, as MDR reported.

On the first day, eight adult marching bands performed, while seven children's marching bands followed on Sunday. There were also fanfare marches, shawm orchestras and brass musicians from the Hungarian twin town of Kiskunmajsa, which enriched the event not only locally but also internationally. The opportunity for children and young people up to the age of 16 to take part ensures that the tradition of playing music is passed on to the next generation, a central concern of the Landes-Musik- und Spielleutesportverband e.V..

Assessment and criteria

The performances of the marching bands were evaluated by a jury based on three main criteria: the correct playing of melody and rhythm instruments and the external impression while marching. There was a little leeway for exceptional talent: in some cases, older musicians were also admitted with points deducted as long as they met the basic requirements. As a rule, participants have at least two years of prior training, while special talents can take part after just one year.

Special features of the event

The event offered an extensive supporting program for the spectators. Entry was free for children under 12, while adults could enter for a daily rate of 10 euros or a weekend ticket of 18 euros. The minstrels' party in the evening, which was accessible for 5 euros, was particularly popular. There was plenty of food available - from sausages and steaks to crepes and ice cream, although visitors were asked not to bring their own food.

Entertainment options such as a bouncy castle and a box slide were available for the little guests, while a large sandpit on the beach volleyball court was ideal for playing. The toilet facilities, including a barrier-free container, could be used free of charge, which increased comfort for everyone present.

This year's national minstrels' championship was not just a celebration of music, but a real community experience that demonstrated the solidarity in the music scene and beyond. The high musical standard of the participants, which can be seen in competitions and performances both in Saxony and beyond, is evidence of the successful work of the many volunteer trainers who are trained by the Landes-Musik- und Spielleutesportverband e.V.. Here the tradition of minstrel music is kept alive and brought to future generations.

A look into the next few years shows that the state championships will continue to be an integral part of cultural life in Saxony in the future, with a concentrated load of music and joy for old and young.