Experimental Music in the Heart of Downtown

KNOB Festival of New Music is Wichita's premier celebration of avant-garde, experimental, and contemporary classical music. Presented by Fisch Bowl Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit arts organization, KNOB has established itself as an essential venue for boundary-pushing musical expression and innovative performance art in the region.

The 2026 edition of KNOB takes place over three days—January 29-31—at Fisch Haus, a dedicated performance space located at 524 Commerce Street in downtown Wichita. The venue's intimate setting creates an ideal environment for the thought-provoking, occasionally challenging music that defines the festival's programming.

A Diverse Lineup Across Three Nights

Thursday, January 29, opens the festival with performances by Emma Lippert, Kim Trujillo and Jim Pisano, Von Hansen, and Daydream. Friday, January 30, features David Lord and the Fisch Haus Philharmonic, Ross McEwen, Jacob Mashak, and Craig Owens and The Bodo Jazz Band. Saturday, January 31, concludes the festival with performances by the Mike Unruh ensemble, Honey Cloud featuring Jackson Graham, and Sage Judd.

Beyond music, the festival incorporates multi-disciplinary performance and visual art, including a textile art exhibition by Lindsay Lion Lord, an MFA thesis exhibition displayed throughout the venue.

Accessible Experimental Art

KNOB maintains an inclusive approach to experimental music, with $10 nightly admission and no advance sales required—tickets are available at the door. Doors open at 7:30 PM with performances beginning at 8:00 PM each night. This accessibility model ensures that Wichita's curious listeners and adventurous music fans can experience cutting-edge artistry without barriers.

For musicians and audiences seeking something beyond mainstream programming, KNOB Festival of New Music represents a vital cultural institution in Wichita, nurturing experimental artistic expression and fostering a community of innovative performers and engaged listeners.