Alle Neun In Contest
Singer-songwriter/band competition organised by Austria’s nine universities and colleges of music: While Europe’s attention is focused on the Eurovision Song Contest, Austria’s universities and colleges of music are turning their attention to the up-and-coming artists who will shape the music of tomorrow: On 15 May 2026, the campus of the mdw – University of Music and Performing Arts Vienna will become the stage for the most promising up-and-coming acts on the Austrian popular music scene. Representing the Mozarteum University will be Daniel Wisiol and the Mozquitos.
Alle Neun in Contest
15 May 2026, from 5.00pm
Quadrangle mdw-Campus
Anton-von-Webern-Platz 1
1030 Wien
What has united the country’s nine music universities and conservatoires for years through close collaboration – their pursuit of excellence and high artistic standards – will be on show this evening: Austrias most talented students will compete together in a singer-songwriter and band contest. Each institution will be represented by a selected act – ranging from solo artists to bands of up to six members.
The candidate selected by the Mozarteum University for "Alle Neun in Contest" is Daniel Wisiol. He was chosen from a total of seven entries.
At the mdw Song Contest, Daniel Wisiol and his band will present a stylistically diverse sound that blends funk, soul and jazz.
The line-up comprises vocals/keyboards, guitar, saxophone, trumpet and bass, combining groovy arrangements with an expressive ensemble sound. The focus is on musical energy, a joy of performance, and the blend of entertaining original compositions with selected classics.Alle Neun In Contest
In two live rounds, the finalists will perform a cover version and an original composition, and face a panel of expert judges comprising the musicians Hubert von Goisern, Ina Regen, Missy May, Christian Kolonovits and David Buder. The focus will be on artistic personality, musical quality and the ability to connect with the audience.
The most impressive acts will be awarded prize money totalling 6,000 euros. The event will be hosted by Florian Hörl.
The competition is intended to send a powerful message: popular music has long been a central component of artistic education in Austria and a field in which social developments are reflected and new musical approaches emerge. It demonstrates how education, artistic practice and contemporary culture are intertwined.
Ulrike Sych, Rector of the mdw, speaking on behalf of all rectors: Whilst Europe’s attention at the Eurovision Song Contest is focused on acts that are already in the spotlight, we are also turning our attention to those young artists who will shape the stages of tomorrow. This competition brings together some of Austria’s most exciting emerging talents and highlights the artistic potential that is developing in the next generation. The fact that Austria’s music universities and conservatoires are joining forces in this initiative also demonstrates how integral — and forward-thinking — popular music in all its facets is within Austrian music education.
This new format creates a platform that is more than just a competition: it is a joint showcase for Austria’s music universities and conservatoires – and a glimpse of the next generation of artists, whose influence will extend far beyond Austria’s borders.