From Paris comes this flattering and inspiring review of Big Ears 2026, especially as it comes from Fabien Simon, whose own festival, Sons d’Hiver, is one of the great beacons of light in the international cultural landscape.
“This will be my sixth time attending, and I have to admit: the excitement remains undiminished. Big Ears has established itself as a festival of rare scope and consistency, capable of embracing a very broad musical spectrum while building an ecosystem entirely dedicated to music, in a city where everything is within a fifteen-minute walk. The audience knows what they’re getting into; the festival has been sold out for several years now. Just imagine: over 35,000 people over four days, without ever feeling crowded. Nothing but music lovers. Meticulous organization. Over fifteen venues. More than 250 concerts. Impeccable sound. Meetings, screenings, exhibitions. The thrill is never far away. A paradise for music lovers. I have to pinch myself every year to make sure that what seems like a mirage is indeed real.”
Read it in French or scroll down for the English translation.
