Midwinterhoornblazen Ugchelen

Midwinterhoornblazen Ugchelen is a community group dedicated to preserving and sharing the tradition of midwinter horn blowing. Its members, women and men aged from 15 to 85, perform the instrument’s distinctive, melancholy melodies outdoors during Advent, from the first Sunday of Advent through Epiphany on 6 January. They wear traditional Veluwe clothing, and some play horns they have built themselves. Both making and playing the midwinter horn are recognised as intangible cultural heritage, reflecting the group’s role in passing the practice on to future generations.

The group also presents the tradition at markets and fairs outside the Advent season. Experienced members offer horn-building courses and help newcomers learn to play. Members meet for informal practice evenings about once a month at IKC De Spreng in Ugchelen, with a convivial gathering afterwards. The organisation publishes information, articles and an event calendar, including practice sessions and seasonal performances. People interested in learning more, joining in, or booking the group for an event are invited to contact them.