Anniversary ROCKTREFF in Mariendorf: Young talents conquer the stage!

Anniversary ROCKTREFF in Mariendorf: Young talents conquer the stage!

The ROCKTREFF, a highlight for young musicians in Berlin, will take place this year on October 20, 2025 in the Mariendorfer Volksparkstation. This important event, which has existed since 1984, has already given over 600 young bands the opportunity to present themselves on one stage. ROCKTREFF is one of the largest non-commercial newcomer festivals in the capital, receiving more than 200 applications from young musicians every year to become part of the festival. This year, 16 bands from Berlin and all over Germany were selected to perform different music genres such as rock, punk and metal. This is reported by berlin.de.

The first Tempelhof rock meeting took place on September 15, 1984 in the Mariendorf football stadium. Initially there was no real stage or catering, just a few dozen music enthusiasts who followed Michael Abou-Dakn's initiative. The foundation for the event was laid when the youth welfare office became involved as an organizer, which led to the creation of today's ROCKTREFF. Since then, the event has evolved significantly, but remains true to its original goal: to provide amateur bands with a platform to perform in front of an audience. The 16 bands are selected annually from over 200 applications received, which are coordinated by CPYE e.V.

Volunteers wanted

In order to support the preparations, CPYE e.V. is looking for volunteers who are willing to help as part of the volunteer crew. The tasks are varied and include, among other things, setting up and dismantling stages and stands, cabling lighting and sound technology and providing support in the backstage area. Preparations begin on the Monday before the event and are led by a crew of 80 to 100 helpers. Stefan Böltes, the head of the district council, took over the patronage of the event.

A games festival takes place parallel to ROCKTREFF, where children have the opportunity to take part in market stalls organized by around 30 educational and sports clubs and the youth welfare office. The attractions are diverse and offer children the opportunity to try out different offerings. After successfully completing a “game course”, a surprise awaits you. Youth City Councilor Oliver Schworck emphasizes the importance of the ROCKTREFF and the game festival for the district.

Support for young artists

The Bandbüro Berlin offers valuable support for the large number of bands and artists in Berlin. This ORWOhaus e.V. project is a central point of contact for young musicians and the first point of contact for their diverse needs. The Band Office provides support at all stages of artist development as well as management services offered both virtually and in person. The competent team offers tailor-made advice on topics such as finding a studio and artists' social security funds as well as special deals for registered bands in Berlin.

For further information about the bands and the program of ROCKTREFF and the game festival, numerous resources are available on the event's website. Both the promotion of young talent and the creation of opportunities for encounters are central goals that will continue to attract music enthusiasts in Berlin in the future.