OVERTURE II
2nd International Festival for Classical Saxophone Leipzig 2026
Following the enthusiastic response to its premiere in February 2024, the International Festival for Classical Saxophone Leipzig – OVERTURE II – returns in February 2026 for its second edition.
The festival once again celebrates the rich sound world of the classical saxophone and brings together distinguished artists from various countries. The program features works by Johann Sebastian Bach, Franz Schubert, Felix Mendelssohn Bartholdy and others, presented in refined arrangements for saxophone ensemble and solo saxophone.
Among the performers are the internationally renowned saxophonists Henk van Twillert and Frank Liebscher, as well as the ensembles Vento do Norte and Rosa dos Ventos, whose brilliant virtuosity and subtle sonic artistry captivate audiences.
A special highlight of the festival is the participation of the French saxophonist Claude Delangle, long-time professor at the Conservatoire National Supérieur de Musique de Paris and one of the most internationally renowned representatives of his field. On February 17, 2026, he will perform in the opening concert in the Grand Hall of the University of Music and Theatre Leipzig and lead a masterclass on the same day, which is open to the public for passive participation. On February 18, 2026, he will also take part in the evening concert at the Alte Börse and give another masterclass in the morning. Active participation in the masterclasses is available in limited numbers and can be requested in advance by email: 📧 masterclasses@overture-leipzig.de
With OVERTURE II, Leipzig once again becomes a meeting place for international saxophone artistry — a festival that unites artistic excellence, musical exchange, and a vibrant curiosity for the classical saxophone.