We are pleased to announce that preparations are well underway for the SIRD 5th Global Symposium, marking 10 years since the first gathering in Berne, Switzerland (2016).

The upcoming Symposium 2026 will take place in Helsinki, Finland, hosted at the Helsinki Conservatory in the vibrant Ruoholahti district, in collaboration with the Finnish Defence Forces and the National Association of Rudimental Drummers Finland. Join us as we celebrate a decade of global rudimental drumming collaboration, connection, and cultural exchange.

🗓 Event Dates
Friday 18th – Sunday 20th September 2026

📍 Location
Helsinki Conservatory of Music
Ruoholahti, Helsinki, Finland

💬 What to Expect
As with previous editions, the symposium will feature presentations, performances, and workshops for drummers and fifers/piccolo players. In 2026, we are proud to expand the program to include a new and exciting focus on Drum Majors.

We warmly invite all SIRD members and friends—including Drum Majors from around the world—to join us for this unforgettable weekend of inspiration, learning, and international fellowship.

Spread the word to your colleagues and fellow performers. Let’s make the 10-year celebration of SIRD truly global.

You are Rudimentally Welcome!

Every ticket grants you full access to all scheduled training sessions, workshops, and specialized programs—including the dedicated Drum Major and Piccolo/Fife workshops.

Choose the pass that best fits your weekend experience:

• Workshop Pass (€35.00): Perfect if you just want to focus on the playing. This pass grants access exclusively to all training sessions and workshops and includes a welcome package.

• Rudimental Pass Lite (€73.00): Includes full workshop access, a welcome package, lunch at the Helsinki Conservatory on Saturday and Sunday, and entry to our Friday evening pre-party at Restaurant Storyville.

• Rudimental Weekend Pass (€160.00): The ultimate weekend experience. Includes everything in the Lite pass, plus entry to our special Gala Evening at Suomenlinna, featuring a three-course dinner and a glass of wine at Restaurant Walhalla.

Important Registration Note: To participate in the event, you must purchase your ticket and complete the registration form. The completed form must be sent directly to our lead organizer, Tomi Kauppila (Sergeant First Class, Drum Master of the Defence Forces) with the copy of passport.

Ticket sales end on September 11, 2026. One ticket is valid per person.

Accommodation & Travel Details

• Travel/Lodging: Please note that accommodation and transportation are not included in the ticket price.

• Hotel Discount: For nearby lodging, the Clarion Hotel is located close to the Helsinki Conservatory. You can receive a discount on Strawberry.fi hotels by using the discount code: eventshelsinki