The Knoxville festival confirms David Byrne, John Zorn, and a tribute to Arthur Russell for its next edition, continuing its focus on avant-garde and compositional music.
Big Ears has revealed the initial lineup for its 2026 festival, scheduled for March 26-29 in Knoxville, Tennessee. The first wave places David Byrne and John Zorn as central figures, with Byrne slated for a solo performance and Zorn curating a series of events.
The announcement also confirms the return of Dirty Three and a set by TV on the Radio’s Tunde Adebimpe. A notable tribute to Arthur Russell’s instrumental work is planned, featuring an ensemble led by composer and pianist Rob Moose.
This early roster reinforces the festival’s established identity. It operates as a distinct gathering in the US, prioritizing avant-garde, contemporary composition, and improvisation over mainstream festival trends. The full lineup will be announced in phases leading up to the event.
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ROMBO Editorial Staff
The collective voice behind ROMBO Magazine’s news, reviews, features, and cultural coverage.
