Emerging bands and musicians can apply to the Garage project until Tuesday, March 31, 2026 (inclusive) via an online form. The Trenčín 2026 – European Capital of Culture project is once again searching for new musical talent, with the main highlight being the opportunity to perform at the Pohoda Festival 2026.
Open call for a new generation of musicians
“Garage has long provided space for new musical talent and helped them grow. This year, we are once again focusing on creating concrete opportunities for bands to move forward – whether through meetings and workshops with music professionals or performances at Garage and selected events,” says project manager Pavol Čižmár.
The current edition of the Garage project is open to emerging bands, solo performers, producers, and DJs of all genres. The main requirement is original music and a maximum of one released album.
Applications will be evaluated by a jury composed of professionals with extensive experience in the music industry in Slovakia and abroad. The evaluation will focus primarily on the artistic quality of recordings and the potential to deliver a cohesive live performance.
More information about the open call and participation conditions can be found at: https://www.trencin2026.eu/garazou-to-zacina/
Pohoda 2026 as the main opportunity
The biggest attraction of this year’s edition is the opportunity to perform at Pohoda 2026, one of the most prominent music festivals in Central Europe. The selected band will gain a unique chance to present their work to a wide audience as well as industry professionals.
“Performing at the Pohoda Festival is a valuable experience for emerging bands and an opportunity to test their music in a strong festival environment,” adds Čižmár.
In addition, the project offers participants concert opportunities and educational activities that help them better understand the music industry and further develop their careers.
Background
The Garage project symbolically refers to the beginnings of music bands. Its aim is to support young musicians by creating opportunities for presentation, education, and networking both locally and internationally.
In 2025, nearly 200 bands applied to the open call, confirming the growing interest in the project and its importance within the Slovak music scene.
The project is financially supported by the City of Trenčín, the Trenčín Self-Governing Region, the Ministry of Culture of the Slovak Republic, and the European Union.
MEDIA CONTACT
Tereza Fojtová / PR Manager Trenčín 2026
tereza.fojtova@trencin2026.eu / +421 918 412 621 / www.trencin2026.eu
