Music at the Belgian Pavilion: A Celebration of Talent and Culture at Expo 2025

As Expo 2025 in Osaka came to a close, visitors left with lasting memories of the Belgian Pavilion—not only for its striking architecture and innovative exhibitions, but also for its vibrant musical program. From contemporary pop and electronic beats to traditional ensembles and avant-garde performances, the Pavilion offered a rich auditory journey that celebrated Belgium’s diversity and creativity.

Throughout the Expo, the Pavilion hosted an extraordinary lineup of Belgian artists, carefully curated to complement its overarching theme of human regeneration. The program brought together established names, rising stars, and unique experimental acts, creating moments that resonated with audiences long after the music ended.

Belgium’s dynamic music scene shone through performances by Compact Disk Dummies, whose electropunk energy captured the spirit of modern Belgian pop culture, and Buscemi, whose fusion of jazz, house, and Afrobeat provided a sophisticated, atmospheric backdrop. Singer-songwriter ISE drew listeners in with her emotive voice, while ocarina virtuoso Tom Vanopphem offered audiences a rare glimpse into the versatility of Belgian musical tradition.

The Pavilion’s stage also showcased Belgium’s contemporary pop and electro scene, with artists like Alice on the Roof, Red Sebastian, and le talu, whose bold, genre-defying performances reflected the country’s artistic innovation and commitment to inclusivity. Meanwhile, Orlane, a singer from Liège, and the indie-pop band Portland brought cinematic, emotive experiences that captivated visitors near the Expo’s conclusion.

Special themed weeks added even more depth to the musical program. During Peace, Human Security & Dignity Week, performances by Red Sebastian, le talu, Alice on the Roof, and Jaouad Alloul, who presented the multimedia show Walking Home, intertwined music, identity, and storytelling to powerful effect. The Pavilion also hosted unique collaborations, including the live band accompaniment for the Japanese silent film Fuun Jo Shi, blending visual and musical artistry into an unforgettable experience.

Belgium’s national pride was also on full display during National Day, with performances by Armand Magic, Mentissa, Helena, Mustii, Floris and the Flames, and a selection of talented DJs, including DJ Daddy K, DJ ZYKO, and DJ Nick Sanchez. Traditional ensembles, such as the Ommegang of Brussels and the Nishinomiya Boys and Girls Choir, added ceremonial gravitas, balancing contemporary pop with historic cultural expressions.

Regional weeks highlighted the cultural richness of Belgium’s different communities: Wallonia Week featured Avant Gardey, Kentomori, and the Echasseurs de Namur, while Flemish Week welcomed the Crossbones Trombones, Shuffles from Brussels, and Daniel Verstappen. Brussels Week included dance performances by Isabella Soupart alongside the Ommegang, merging music, movement, and heritage.

Integrating this diverse musical program was essential to the Pavilion’s success. Music created an immediate, emotional connection with visitors, transcending language and cultural barriers. It fostered engagement, brought Belgian creativity to life, and facilitated meaningful cultural exchange with Japanese audiences and beyond.

Looking back, the Pavilion’s musical journey was more than a series of performances—it was a celebration of Belgium itself: its talent, its diversity, and its ability to inspire. As Expo 2025 closes, the echoes of these performances linger, a reminder of how music can elevate cultural storytelling and create connections that endure far beyond the stage.