We are pleased to announce the 4th edition of SoAlive Music Conference & Festival (SAMC) 2026, taking place in Sofia, Bulgaria, from 14 to 16 October 2026. The Balkans have long been a cradle of musical innovation. From fiery brass bands to hypnotic electronica, this is your chance to showcase your sound to the very people shaping the global music conversation. Artists and bands presenting original music who are originally from the Balkan region are welcome to apply for SoAlive Music Conference (SAMC) 2026. Application Deadline: 10 February 2026.
SAMC has established itself as one of Southeast Europe’s key music industry meeting points, bringing together over 800 international delegates from across the global music ecosystem. Attending professionals include booking agents, promoters, festival organizers, digital platforms, record labels, music supervisors, cultural organizations, export offices, and media.
Showcase concerts will take place across Sofia’s leading live music venues, offering selected artists the opportunity to perform on professional stages, connect directly with industry decision-makers, and benefit from strong local and international media visibility.
Quick Facts
Event Dates: 14–16 October 2026
Location: Sofia, Bulgaria
Application Deadline: 10 February 2026
What Is a Showcase Festival?
A showcase festival differs from a traditional music festival. Its primary purpose is artist discovery and professional networking. Music industry professionals attend specifically to find new talent for festivals, tours, labels, sync placements, and international markets.
Performing at SoAlive places your project directly in front of people who can help develop your career beyond your home territory.
Who Can Apply?
Live performing artists (solo acts or bands) presenting original music.
Eligible Genres:
Genres include (but are not limited to): Pop, jazz, hip-hop, electronic music with live instruments, soul, indie, funk, rock, metal, electro-pop, nu-jazz, folk, world music, acoustic pop, and related styles.
Eligible Countries:
Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Greece, Kosovo, Moldova, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Slovenia, Turkey
Bulgarian artists are eligible; approximately 10 Bulgarian acts will be selected as part of the final lineup.
What Selected Artists Receive?
- A 45-minute showcase performance slot at SoAlive Music Conference & Festival 2026
- Free festival and conference passes for the artist(s) and one manager/representative
- Access to the official delegate database for professional networking
- Full technical production, including: Sound and lighting; Basic backline; Professional sound engineer; Backstage catering
Travel & Accommodation Support
- International (non-Bulgarian) artists: €200 travel support + full accommodation coverage
- Bulgarian artists not based in Sofia: Possibility of travel and accommodation support, depending on availability
Performance Fee Policy
SoAlive is a professional showcase festival, not a commercial concert series. As per international showcase standards, no standard performance fee is paid. Instead, the festival supports artists through travel, accommodation, technical production, and access to industry professionals.
Availability & Commitment
By applying, artists confirm their availability to perform between 14–16 October 2026.
All submitted information (artist bio, music links, lineup details, technical requirements) must be accurate. Any significant changes after selection must be approved by the SoAlive team. The organizers reserve the right to withdraw an invitation in case of unapproved or material changes.
Promotional Use of Materials
By submitting an application, artists grant SoAlive permission to use provided photos, audio, and video materials for promotional purposes, including website, social media, press, and industry communications. Photo credits will be respected where applicable.
Language Requirement
All application materials must be submitted in English.