More than just Umtata.

From 22 March to 11 October, the Oberschönenfeld Museum is hosting the special exhibition ‘More than Just Umtata: Brass Band Music in Swabia’. It introduces visitors to the fascination and diversity of brass band music in Bavarian Swabia and is aimed at both amateurs and experienced musicians.
Bavarian Swabia is a land of brass music: almost 40,000 musicians play together regularly in 640 registered music societies. Brass music is particularly ubiquitous in rural areas – it can be heard in churches, marquees and concert halls, at weddings as well as funerals, and on public holidays such as Corpus Christi and New Year’s Day.
The Allgäu-Swabian Music Federation’s 100th anniversary as the inspiration for the exhibition
Reason enough to give this phenomenon its due, especially as the Allgäu-Swabian Music Federation celebrates its centenary in 2026, making it Germany’s oldest brass band association. The Oberschönenfeld Museum is hosting the special exhibition “More than just ‘Umtata. Brass Band Music in Swabia’ from 22 March to 11 October. The exhibition invites amateurs, experienced musicians and anyone interested to discover the history, evolution and many peculiarities of brass band music in Swabia. Visitors can embark on a journey of discovery and explore the enduring appeal of brass band music.
Brass music in Swabia: from humble beginnings to today’s hip scene
The exhibition offers insights into the history of brass music and how the instruments, line-up and repertoire have changed over time. It also shows the role brass music plays in social life in Swabia and how prevailing role models and power structures are reflected within it. Visitors can trace the development from early brass bands of the 19th century right through to today’s trendy street bands.
Experience it live in the staged rehearsal room
Practising, discussing, celebrating and reminiscing – it all takes place in the rehearsal room, the heart of every music society. The exhibition stages the society’s rehearsal room as the central hub of activity. Visitors take part in a brass band rehearsal and follow the events in the rehearsal room on a large screen – from the perspective of both the musicians and the conductor.
Interactive stations
Various stations throughout the exhibition also invite visitors to get involved: how is sound produced on a woodwind or brass instrument? Visitors can try this out for themselves. Visitors can also produce sounds themselves on a large percussion instrument, the Tubulum. At a photo station, brass band fans can have their picture taken with stylised accessories and instruments.
Extensive supporting programme
In addition, the exhibition offers a varied programme of open guided tours on Sundays and public holidays, as well as family activities featuring a creative workshop. Storytelling cafés and open-air concerts in the museum courtyard round off the programme.

Last edited on 04.05.2026