Brussels (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – STIB (MIVB) in Brussels held auditions for 20 musicians, including saxophonist Wald, to perform in metro stations. Alizée Debruyne said artists must spread positive messages and renew permits yearly.
As VRT News reported, the STIB (MIVB) in Brussels is organising new auditions for musicians who want to perform in the city’s metro stations. One of the participants is Wald, a saxophone player who performs with a small group. He says playing in the metro is a special experience because of the constant flow of people. Wald says that sometimes passengers offer food or drinks as a sign of appreciation.
“We see the metro as a kind of rehearsal space.”
Wald, a musician in the subway
What is MIVB doing to bring musicians into Brussels metro stations?
Wald and his group mentioned that they play for enjoyment, not for money. Still, people often give them money as a gesture of support. The musicians use their time in the metro to practice. They also hand out business cards to promote their band. Wald says the metro serves as a useful rehearsal space that helps them grow as a group.
20 artists have registered for the new STIB audition in Brussels.
“They have to perform something for a jury of musically engaged colleagues,”
says Alize Debrune of MIVB.
“Musicians are not allowed to produce hateful lyrics.”
Alizée Debruyne, STIB
A jury will review each performance and decide who can play in the city’s metro stations. Officials mentioned that the judges will look at musical ability and how well each artist represents the values of STIB.
“It is important that they share a positive message with our passengers,”
said Debrune.
Musicians are not allowed to perform songs with hateful or discriminatory words. The auditions are open to all kinds of performers, including beginners.
“We are not a conservatory, so aspiring musicians can also take part,”
Debrune explained.
Artists who pass the audition receive a permit that allows them to perform in the metro for an unlimited period. However, they must renew this permit every year. Each year, STIB checks if the artists still follow the rules.
Debrune said,
“We reassess every year whether the group still conveys a positive message, but it rarely happens that we have to say no.”
The STIB music program began in 2007 under the name “Operation Beethoven.” It was created to allow selected musicians to perform in Brussels’ metro stations and bring live music to daily commuters. Over the years, the initiative has become a regular part of city life, offering space for both professional and new artists.
In June 2025, STIB updated the system by introducing QR codes for online applications and marking clear performance areas inside stations. Similar events have also taken place in recent years, including a free concert by the Brussels Philharmonic at Rogier Station on June 21, 2023.
