Booster Festival: the new sound of the east of the Netherlands and beyond

The event began as an initiative by ArtEZ Conservatorium in Enschede and has grown into a leading festival.

Pim Kokkeler, programmer of the showcase festival, sees that development reflected in the artists who perform there. Jeangu Macrooy, for example, played Booster in 2017, a week before releasing his EP in Amsterdam. That show sold out immediately, and his career quickly gained momentum.

Other acts have also taken important steps there. Hiigo impressed the national music industry and later performed on the main stage at Concert at SEA, followed by a sold-out club tour and a support slot for BLØF. Droom Dit connected with their current team through Booster, which led to their participation in Popronde. They also won the Cultuurfonds Pop Stipendium.

Micha is continuing to grow, with sold-out club shows and international performances.

According to Kokkeler, these examples show what Booster stands for: not only providing a stage, but actively contributing to the development of emerging talent.

The festival plays an important role in the music scene, says Kokkeler.

“Booster brings together the music scene of the east of the Netherlands. From makers and students to venues and programmers. The festival is closely connected to Muziekhub Oost, where talent development is nurtured, from first idea to professional artist.

During the day, makers and professionals meet at the conference, share knowledge and receive feedback. In the evening, the focus shifts to the showcase festival, where new music takes centre stage.

It is precisely this combination of development and presentation that makes Booster a vital link: it shows what is emerging in the region and connects it to the national and international field.”

Booster traditionally took place on Saturday only, but now spans two days. Friday has since developed into a full festival day with its own focus.

“Friday centres on DJs, producers and composers. With a conference at venues including Vestzak and Club Antia, and a club night at Poppodium Metropool, the programme connects to the electronic and producer-driven music scene,” says Kokkeler.

Everything about the different parts of Booster, such as the showcase festival, the music conference, Soundshift and Booster CTRL, can be found on their website. This includes the timetable, which you can personalise to create your own schedule, as well as the option to buy tickets.

Booster can be found online on Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and TikTok.