Debrecen4U August 27, 2025

What Debrecen offers to young people who dream of a musical career

For years, the city of Debrecen has been consciously and comprehensively supporting young people who dream of a musical career. Support for popular music is not only provided at the institutional level but also through community and civic initiatives. According to the deputy mayor, István Puskás, the city does not want to dictate from above how music life should work but rather would like to encourage young people to be active, self-organize, and create.

Rocksuli (Debrecen Rock School) has been operating since 1989, and generations have learned to play music, sing, and form bands here. This institution outside the school system not only provides technical knowledge but also builds community. And for those who want to continue their studies at a higher level, the Institute of Popular Music of the University of Debrecen offers the opportunity, which uniquely trains musicians at the university level.

The city also provides a mobile rehearsal room for young people: Zenedoboz (Music Box) is located in a different secondary school every year, where students can practice with instruments provided by Rocksuli. The opportunity to perform is also an important issue, since it is not enough to play music to be successful; you also need to reach the audience. Although Debrecen still has room for new clubs and stages, the Made in Debrecen Festival, for example, offers a great opportunity to perform. This one-day event takes place from morning until late at night at several locations, and amateurs and professionals alike can perform. The festival is growing every year, and this year it already had nearly 200 performers, including foreign bands.

The city’s support does not stop at performance opportunities. Since 2021, more than 80 projects have received assistance under the Music Support Program, for example, for studio recordings and video production. They also take the world of digital music seriously: the Techno Lab project works with various partners and offers workshops and conferences for young people interested in electronic music. In addition, Debrecen Art Lab (DEAL) also brings together a number of cultural projects, such as live concerts organized in the Méliusz Library or events dreamed up by secondary school students, such as June Jam or Fall Fest.

The city also pays attention to ensuring that entertainment is safe. Moonshine – Rolling – Room Party Assistance Service has been present in downtown nightlife for 18 years, helping to connect with young people in a playful and creative way. “Szenvedélyes Juniális” (“Passionate June Festival”) draws attention to drug prevention through community cooperation.

Overall, Debrecen not only offers opportunities but also actively encourages young people to take the initiative, create, and find their own way in the world of music.

Source and photo credit:dehir.hu