The International Accordion Competition in Klingenthal, traditionally held annually, was not held in 2024. In March 2024, it was announced that there would be no competition that year, and plans for 2025 were undecided.

Subsequently, in September 2024, it was confirmed that the competition would not take place in 2025, with efforts directed towards organizing an event in 2026.

However, in March 2024, there were discussions about reviving the “Kleine Tage der Harmonika” (Little Days of the Harmonica) for young accordionists, with a focus on participants from Germany.

Klingenthal Press Release: On March 27th, 2025, the General Meeting of the Association for the Promotion of the Klingenthal Accordion Competitions discussed dissolving the association.

The work of the association had deteriorated to such as extent that led to the fact that the implementation of the competitions International Accordion Competition Klingenthal and the Small Days of Harmonica competition, could no longer be guaranteed.

In addition, world changes have led to a noticeable decrease in the number of participants as well as economic and financial constraints.

It seems that the International Accordion Competition has been going through a period of adjustment. The decision to pause the event for both 2024 and 2025 must have been disappointing for enthusiasts, but it’s encouraging to see efforts being redirected towards organizing a competition in 2026.

The revival of the “Kleine Tage der Harmonika” sounds like a promising initiative to nurture young talent, particularly focusing on German participants. It’s heartening to see that even during a hiatus, the spirit of music and community remains active.