We are very happy to receive more applications of bands every year. The downside of this is of course, that we have to disappoint more bands than in previous years, but we think it means that more and more musicians and bands realize that it is important for them to be present at EBMAs annual European bluegrass music convention and festival.
The job of the Selection & Programming Committee is a difficult one, and we are not able to discuss individual decisions with you. There are many aspects involved; the main selection criteria are these:
Musical excellence is always the first priority in band selection.
We like to see as many countries as possible represented on the EWOB Festival stage.
We try to include some promising new groups each year that have not performed at EWOB before.
Bands should play acoustic instruments. Electric bass is fine. We are not able to accommodate drum sets, however.
We love both traditional and progressive bluegrass! We do not set limits to exclude any style, but your music should be bluegrass-related in some way. This could mean mixing in other instruments besides the traditional guitar, banjo, mandolin, fiddle, dobro, and bass. Perhaps you play other sorts of music with bluegrass instruments. We are open to new sounds and possibilities that our very savvy EWOB Festival audience might enjoy.
Original material and originality of style are encouraged. Incorporating musical influences from your own country, or some songs in your own language, can add interest and color and a very European flair to your sound. None of these things are required, however. We want you to play your music your way!
A handful of touring American bands perform at EWOB, generally 4 to 6 at most. The same musical criteria apply to these visiting bands. The EWOB Festival showcases European and American bands together. This not only creates a fuller experience of bluegrass music, but also makes for exciting contrasts - and some thrilling musical exchange both in jam sessions and instrument workshops! Our American guest artists also help to bring more people to the EWOB Festival.
If your band was not selected last year, please apply again. The Program Committee tries to give extra consideration in this event. However, if your band has applied several times without being selected, it might be a good idea to send a new, improved demo when you apply again.
Rest assured that no "political" considerations have ever been allowed to influence the selection process. It doesn't matter "who you know" (or whom you don't know), where you come from, or whether you can afford the money to join EBMA. Our selection process has not always been perfect, but we do our best to listen to your suggestions and to make sure that it is fair to everyone. We want to make EWOB the best possible experience for both the bands and the audience.