For the 13th edition of MENT Ljubljana, the city’s premier music‑discovery festival is on the hunt for artists, bands, solo performers and DJs who bring live energy and have publicly accessible audio or video material. If your sound feels fresh, experimental, or simply speaks to a community of music lovers, this is the place to be.
What MENT really is
- A showcase that feels like a festival.
Antonio Poscic, The Wire notes, “MENT remains a rarity: a showcase festival curated so that whichever path you choose, every discovery feels like a win.”
Bob Van Heur, of Le Guess Who, echoes that “It’s about creating a healthy ecosystem with like‑minded people.” - A meeting ground for the indie industry.
Darek Mazzone, KEXP, describes it as “infrastructure for the future of independent culture.”
In 2025 the 11th edition brought 82 acts from 27 countries to four days on 13 stages, while a parallel conference drew 700 industry professionals from more than 30 nations.
Why you should apply
| What you’ll get | What it means for you |
|---|---|
| Performance fee | Your talent is valued, no unpaid gigs. |
| Accommodation (for international acts) | Focus on your set, not your logistics. |
| Basic back‑line | Essentials covered, so you can bring your own vibe. |
| Festival catering | Fuel up and network in a relaxed environment. |
All applicants are evaluated on thoughtfulness rather than sheer volume, so make sure your submission tells a clear, authentic story that resonates with MENT’s identity and audience.
Key dates & logistics
| Milestone | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Application opens | Already open |
| Application closes | September 2026 (exact date announced soon) |
| Results | Email notifications by 18 Dec 2026 (most will hear earlier, Sept–Dec). Check spam just in case. |
Ment Ljubljana blends festival and conference, meaning your performance will sit alongside panels on music industry trends, creative entrepreneurship, and more. This dual platform amplifies exposure to gate‑keepers, promoters, journalists, and a global crowd of indie aficionados.
How to apply
- Dive into MENT’s past line‑ups – feel the tone, the mix, the vibe.
- Draft a concise, compelling application – include links to your audio/video, bios, and a brief statement of why you’re a fit for MENT.
- Apply on MENT 2027 APPLICATION
Tip: The festival loves stories that highlight the why behind your music. Show how you’re building something new, bridging cultures, or pushing genre boundaries.
Final thought
MENT Ljubljana isn’t just a festival; it’s a nexus where emerging talent meets industry infrastructure. Whether you’re a seasoned act looking for fresh audiences or a newcomer ready to break the mold, MENT offers the stage, the network, and the support you need.
Apply, show us what you’ve got, and let the Ljubljana summer be the launchpad for your next big leap.
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