This spring, Rotterdam will find its voice in a brand-new city festival. Presented by concert venue De Doelen, VOICES Rotterdam will bring together international artists, choirs, journalists, emerging talent and local communities for six days of music, conversation and creativity. Taking place across eight locations in the city on 26–28 February and 5–7 March 2027, the festival invites everyone to listen, share ideas and take part in one central question: what connects us?
With more than 80 activities and around 400 artists and speakers, VOICES Rotterdam promises a diverse programme that reflects the many voices and perspectives of the city. Around 30 per cent of the programme will be free to attend.
International stars meet local talent
VOICES Rotterdam brings together established international performers, emerging artists and local music communities. Among the names announced are internationally acclaimed countertenor Jakub Józef Orliński and the Estonian Philharmonic Chamber Choir.
They will share the programme with a wide range of artists representing different musical styles and backgrounds. Highlights include the soul of Nao Yoshioka, the French chansons of Tess Merlot and the uplifting sound of the ZO! Gospel Choir.
The festival also puts amateur choirs and local performers centre stage. Around 60 choirs, including Space Choir, will take part, bringing people together through the shared experience of singing.
Everyone has a voice
VOICES is not just a festival to watch; it is an invitation to participate. Visitors can join in with activities such as XL Karaoke and the Fake Fur Sing Along, while workshops and masterclasses offer opportunities to develop musical skills and discover new talent.
Singer Shirma Rouse will serve as ambassador for a masterclass programme designed for vocalists who want to develop their voices further.
Whether you are an experienced singer, an enthusiastic amateur or simply someone who enjoys music, the festival offers opportunities to get involved and connect with others.
Rotterdam, we need to talk
Music is only part of the story. Under the title Rotterdam, we need to talk, VOICES Rotterdam introduces a dedicated programme of journalistic conversations and encounters.
Journalists, creative professionals and residents will come together to discuss the issues shaping the city. Which stories are not being heard enough? What divides people, and where do Rotterdam's residents find common ground?
Through interviews, discussions and public conversations, the programme aims to create space for different perspectives and encourage audiences to contribute their own experiences.
It is an opportunity to hear Rotterdam's stories from the people who live, work and create here.
A festival made with the city
VOICES Rotterdam is being developed by De Doelen in collaboration with a broad network of Rotterdam-based cultural venues, educational institutions and creative organisations.
Partners include V11, Donner, Flow, Kunstbende, Popunie, Codarts, Zadkine, Space Choir, Rotjekoor and Vocalink.
The festival also wants residents to help shape its programme. Through an open call, people across Rotterdam are invited to submit their own ideas, performances and activities. This collaborative approach reflects the festival's central ambition: to create a platform that represents the diversity and creativity of the city.
As Edo Righini, director of De Doelen and initiator of VOICES Rotterdam, explains:
“Rotterdam is rich in voices, stories and perspectives. With VOICES, we want to let that diversity be heard and bring people across the city into contact with one another. In a concert hall, during a conversation or by singing together. We invite everyone to take part and help shape the festival.”
Six days, eight locations, countless perspectives
With more than 80 activities spread across eight locations, VOICES Rotterdam will turn the city into a meeting place for music, ideas and conversation.
The festival takes place on two weekends: 26–28 February and 5–7 March 2027. Around 30 per cent of the programme is free, making it accessible to a wide audience.
Some concerts are already on sale, while further programme details and opportunities to participate are available through the festival website.
Practical information: VOICES Rotterdam 2027
Dates: 26–28 February and 5–7 March 2027
Locations: Eight venues across Rotterdam
Programme: More than 80 activities
Artists and speakers: Approximately 400
Free programme: Around 30 per cent of activities
- Tickets and information: voicesrotterdam.nl
