Coming to your first ISMIR, or even your first conference? Join a Newcomer Squad! You will be part of a small group of fellow newcomers, with an experienced attendee to help you get to know the conference and the people in it. Squads are a place to ask questions, talk about music information research, share interesting sessions, and meet a few friendly faces. They are also a safe place to discuss anything from how to find your way around the programme to how to deal with stage fright during your ISMIR presentation. This year, both in-person and online squads will be created. For online attendees, we ask for the time zone you will attend the conference from so that we try to pair you with other attendees and a squad leader in a similar time zone, to facilitate discussions. Please express your interest in joining a newcomers squad by 21 October 2026, either as a member or a squad leader!

If you're a Newcomer (first/second-time attendee):

Sign up as a squad member by 21 October 2026.

  •  Get insider tips from your squad leader
  • Build your MIR network from day one
  • Learn how to navigate sessions, workshops, and events
  • Join your squad's Slack channel for questions & ideas

If you're a Squad Leader (experienced attendee):

Volunteer as a squad leader by 21 October 2026.

  • Welcome newcomers with warmth and support
  • Share your experience and pro tips
  • Optionally host one or more in-person or virtual meetups