Corfu International Trumpet Festival

Thirty-three American trumpet players traveled to the Mediterranean island of Corfu, Greece, for the fourth annual Corfu International Trumpet Festival from June 17–23, 2026.

The week highlighted the collaboration between the United States and Greek musicians, brought together on the island paradise of Corfu. The week was spent in partnership with the Mantzaros Philharmonic, Ionian University, and Sokratis Anthis, the conductor and musical director of the Philharmonic and trumpet professor at Ionian University. 

The major event was a June 21 concert, held in celebration of the World Day for Music, featuring Corfu’s Mantzaros Philharmonic.  A large audience gathered by Old Town Corfu’s historic palace for this grand event. As part of the concert, participants performed as soloists, in both small and large trumpet ensembles, and alongside members of the Mantzaros Philharmonic trumpet section. Celebrating both American and Greek music, the program featured the trumpet prominently and included the world premieres of three new works for trumpet ensemble and wind band: The Quest by Stefanos Grammatikos, Salute by Ruud Mourik, and Fanfare and Fugue on a Greek Tune by Spyros Mavropoulos.

Throughout the week, American and Greek trumpeters participated in warm-up classes, rehearsals, and sessions at the Ionian Academy’s Ceremonial Hall, as well as rehearsals with the Mantzaros Philharmonic at the Peristyle of the Palaces. 

Beyond the musical activities, participants explored Corfu’s landmarks and enjoyed a bus tour around the island, with stops at the beaches of Paleokastritsa and Plakoto, providing opportunities to experience the island’s local culture, beaches, and cuisine. Together, these musical and cultural experiences celebrated Corfu’s people, traditions, and enduring commitment to music. (Source: Allie Woodbury)