UPBEAT, the European world music showcase platform, has entered its second four-year phase, which will last until 2029! The network was founded by Hangvető together with 14 major continental showcase festivals (including Folkest) in 2022 to support emerging artists who sing in their own language, connect with their cultural roots, and appeal to current audiences. A growing platform now comprising 20 members and 14 associated partners, UPBEAT has supported over 550 bands and over 1,000 music professionals in its first three years, between 2022 and 2025.
The first chapter of UPBEAT has ended, but we continue!
The UPBEAT platform will last another four years, further supporting the circulation of emerging artists and nurturing a thriving network among showcase festivals in Europe and beyond.
UPBEAT is co-funded by the European Union.
The Folkest Showcase for emerging international world music artists is a strategic section of the festival program. It will take place from July 3 to 5, 2026, in San Daniele del Friuli (UD).
The selected artists will be seen and heard by international agents, festival programmers, music curators, and our festival audience!
2026 Call
Supports original language music from Europe, a continent with as many as 200 spoken languages, all unique and rich in culture. UPBEAT’s support extends to all music currently being created in Europe.
With UPBEAT, organizing events for industry professionals and stakeholders is easier and less expensive. World music experts based in Europe have a lot to offer: our networks need to be tighter and we look for business solutions at our fingertips. UPBEAT supports professional festival showcase events, from networking to in-depth conferences. The goal is simple: collaboration.
Focuses on emerging artists in the European world music sector. We make it much easier for our member festivals to book performances by new talent without having to worry about risk. We support festivals in incorporating emerging artists, international bands and collaborations into their programming.
supports European festivals and music communities in achieving their sustainability goals. There is no future without music, and there is no music without a plan to make it more sustainable than it is now.
Artists will have the opportunity to receive feedback from industry professionals, expand their professional relationships, and also gain opportunities to be booked for future shows and participate in Folk Clinics.
Folkest Festival and Showcase is a member of UPBEAT – European Platform for World Music Showcases. Our showcase program is supported by Upbeat, the Friuli Venezia Giulia Region, and the Municipality of San Daniele del Friuli.
