Eurosonic Noorderslag (ESNS), Europe’s leading music showcase festival and conference, has unveiled the first wave of 40 artists set to perform at its landmark 40th anniversary edition, taking place January 14–17, 2026 in Groningen, the Netherlands. Of these, 36 acts are nominated by 32 EBU member radio stations, with Romania participating for the first time through new member Radio România Cultural. In total, 34 countries are represented, underscoring the diversity and reach that has defined ESNS for four decades.
Europe Calling
While past editions have spotlighted individual countries, ESNS 2026 introduces a new unifying theme: Europe Calling. In an era of heightened geopolitical challenges, the manifesto emphasizes music as a shared cultural movement and a force for unity. This fresh approach showcases a mix of Europe’s most exciting emerging artists across genres, languages, and cultural roots—from the Arctic North to the Mediterranean and from Central Europe to the vibrant sounds of the East.
The first 40 confirmed acts reflect this spirit, delivering everything from intimate songwriting to groundbreaking electronic productions and high-energy live bands.
Highlights From the First 40 Artists
Among the standout names in the first announcement are:
- Léonie Pernet (FR, FIP Radio France)
- Elín Hall (IS, RUV RAS2)
- MOIO (IE, RTÉ 2FM)
- Coca Puma (IT, RAI Radio 2)
- Katarsis (LT, LRT Opus)
- Lenny Monsou and Hiqpy (NL, NPO 3FM)
- FIDJU KITXORA (PT, Antena 3)
- BIJI (SE, SR P3)
- Nadia Kadek (GB-ENG, BBC Introducing)
- snuggle (DK, DR P6 Beat)
- Valeria Stoica (RO/MD, Radio România Cultural)
These artists join a full list of 40 rising talents representing the breadth of Europe’s thriving music scene.
40 Years of ESNS: A Launchpad for European Talent
Since its inception, ESNS has been the launchpad for Europe’s brightest stars, helping acts such as Altin Gün, Dua Lipa, Fontaines D.C., Sigrid, Kingfishr, and Zaho de Sagazan reach international acclaim.
Anna van Nunen, Managing Director of ESNS, highlights the importance of looking forward:
“Celebrating forty years is not just about looking back, but about strengthening our mission for the decades to come: connecting European artists with audiences and industry professionals across borders. Europe Calling symbolizes a shared heartbeat—music as a unifying force in a rapidly changing world.”
Robert Meijerink, Head of Programme and Booker at ESNS, adds:
“These 40 artists show the incredible creativity coming from across Europe. From intimate songwriting to cutting-edge electronics and powerful live bands, they capture the energy and innovation that make ESNS such a unique meeting place for music lovers and professionals.”
Save the Date
Join us in Groningen this January 2026 as ESNS celebrates 40 years of groundbreaking European music and sets the stage for the next generation of talent.
Ticket sales for ESNS26 begin September 25, 2025. Delegate Pass prices will increase after this date, so secure yours early.