JongFest
JongFest is a group of young people (18-23 years old) who immerse themselves in the world of (classical) music and Gent Festival. Young people are the future of our Festival. That is why we are happy to give them a voice within our festival organisation.
I have developed an addiction to listening to live classical music. The opening concert in particular blew me away. It was my first time hearing a symphony orchestra play live, and in such a magnificent venue as Saint Bavo's Cathedral no less. It gave me goosebumps.
What does JongFest do?
1. Musical exploration: We want to give young people the opportunity to discover the diversity of music. Music is a universal language that brings people together. We believe that through music, young people can broaden their horizons and discover new passions.
2. A behind-the-scenes look: We offer the unique chance to look behind the scenes of the Festival. JongFest meets the people who make the Festival possible, including staff, musicians, production crew and much more. This gives them insight into how a major cultural event like Gent Festival is organised.
3. Feedback and visibility: We want to actively involve young people in the Festival and let their voices be heard. Their feedback allows us to respond to the way they experience the Festival and what appeals to them.
This programme is as open and interactive as possible, because we want JongFest to actively contribute to shaping Gent Festival and its future. We believe in the power of youth to bring fresh ideas and insights that can enrich the Festival. Together we can make the musical world of Gent Festival even more captivating and ensure it remains a place where young people can discover, broaden and share their love of music.
JongFest Selection: the musical choices of Gen Z
JongFest puts together a selection of 3 concerts each year that they are looking forward to. Young people (under 26) can purchase a ticket for the selected concerts for just €10. Discover this year's selection on 28th of May.