JU “Dječji savez” Podgorica is organizing the first High School Band Festival “First Riff”, which will take place on June 6, 2026, in Njegoš Park in Podgorica.

The “First Riff” festival aims to promote young musicians, encourage original music creation, develop the music scene among high school students, connect young people from different schools, and create a space where they can express their ideas, attitudes, and interests through music. The organizers are confident that opening this platform will achieve all of these goals on a shared stage.

In addition to the competitive segment, the festival will also feature a showcase program with performances by: the high school band from Budva “Rani jadi”, high school student Dragoljub Kilibarda who performs original solo music, the established band “Akademija” from Bar, and the group NeonoeN.

The competitive segment of the festival will be evaluated by a professional jury consisting of:
Božidar Gagović – PAM representative,
Strahinja Kovačević – music professor,
Janko Popović – Rockstrikcija festival organizer,
Marko Vukčević – band NeonoeN,
and other members from the fields of music and production.

According to the festival rules, bands will perform two songs: one freely chosen song and one original composition or a cover of an existing song.

For the winners of the festival, JU “Dječji savez” Podgorica, in cooperation with partners such as PAM, the Youth Office Podgoric, the Podgorica Tourist Organization, the Secretariat for Culture, as well as numerous sponsors and partners, will provide awards in the following categories: best band of the festival, best vocalist, best instrumental performer, best original song, and special festival awards.

Who’s waiting for us on June 6th in Njegoš Park?

1. Asura
2. Labyrinth
3. Leather Grave
4. Chimera
5. Archangel
6. Koda Band
7. Frankusrudan and the Reindeer
8. Paradigm
9. Collector
10. Hole in the Carpet
11. Ukim Band

We’re waiting for you! ♥️